Wandafuru raifu (1998)

A decent movie about a great man
I had the opportunity to have met Feynman when I was an undergrad at Caltech. We actually had him as a dinner guest when I was there (this is back in the late 70s/early 80s, which is long after the time period covered by this movie). He really was very personable, he loved talking to students. He actually taught a class at caltech after-hours on lockpicking (his dad was a locksmith). He was someone who you really wanted to get to know. I agree with the previous reviewer that this movie does not accurately portray him. Still, the movie was entertaining, which is why I give it 3 stars.

Mostly a love story, very little Feynman
To truly appreciate this film one must first read some of Feynman's works. The film speeds through events as if they all took place at the same time, when it's clearly noted that said events took place at different times. In addition the film is primarily based on his relationship with his first wife, and doesn't really go into the mind of Feynman, or show his true genius, and creativity. In addition the film does not portray Feynman properly; it makes him appear as if he's a secluded genius, when in actuality he was very normal.

One will appreciate some of the various quotes, and events that you'll immediately note from his lectures, and various books. If you haven't read his works, then you will not be able to appreciate this, which I believe is the only positive this film has.

Enchanting
I totally agree with one of the reviewers who says that this movie 'aims low but manages to score high'. I am a long time Feynman fan, just like many others, and I don't frankly think anyone could ever capture the essence of Richard Feynman on screen...except Feynman himself! But I think this movie does a brilliant job at portraying the emotional side of Feynman, through his relationship with Arline, his high school sweetheart. The story is very touching, as narrated by Feynman himself in 'What do you care what other people think!' It was a real tragedy she passed away early, as they were a perfect couple. The movie does manage to capture the sentimental value of that wonderful time which the two shared. About the performances, I do not think that Matt Broderick does a great impersonation of Feynman. But then, maybe no one can. On the other hand, Matt Broderick brings out the sincerity and honesty of the man to the greatest extent. He is perfect for the job, as he easily fits the character of a honest, nice and carefree kid. He is wonderfully complemented by Patricia Arquette. From what I have read about Arline, I think she quite fits the role of the clear thinking, artistic and emotional girl who could captivate someone like Feynman. Overall, I think that the movie is very touching, an example of the kind of films which you rarely see these days, and should be viewed as a very nice movie in its own right, bringing out the emotional side of a truly great man.