The Nutty Professor (1963)

Lewis's best and with tons of footage
I own this classic now. I watched the extra features on the DVD and all of the coverage on the other work of Jerry's . After about a half an hour, I realized there is also a movie on this disk. I could not believe how much material is on this ONE disk. I strongly reccomend this and when you get it, watch it with the commentary track turned on for Jerry's comments as the show plays. The widescreen DVD format is fabulous. The color and clarity are fantastic, and the big band sound and sound effects are richer than ever.

Innovative Dr. Jeckell and Mr.Hyde Spoof
This Classic film shows the incredible comedic range of Jerry Lewis as a goofy buck tooth professor with an exagerated low self esteem. He finds that one of his gorgeous students Miss Purdy played well by Stella Stevens takes some sort of interest to him. As the professor he stumbles on a potion that can change his genetics into an overly arrogant good looking man who lacks the one thing that would win Purdy over. Sensitivity. The characters name Buddy Love is said by some to have been based on former rat pack partner Dean Martin. Buddy Loves character was an inspiration for comedian Andrew Dice Clay as Dice has said, "Your not here because your Not attracted to me. And you can see I dig you pretty well myself." Eddie Murphys remake although good could never over shadow this classic comedy. Lewis as Professor Kelp at the prom with his goofy dance steps is hilarious. This movie is timeless and I highly reccomend it to everyone. This movies 1963 release gives you...

Humility
I once was one of those snots who dismissed the solo work of Jerry Lewis. No longer. After long years with classic silent comedy and Thirties screwball stuff I reluctantly went back to "The Nutty Professor" and my jaw dropped. This guy was a genius. This film has its roots, and plenty of them, but much of it is thoroughly unique and, dare I write it, visionary.

This is also a visually beautiful film with astonishing use of color. A real treat on that count alone. It's also a splendid updating of Jekyll and Hyde with real relevance for modern times.

I write this to those who may be captivated by Keaton, Laurel and Hardy, or Tati, but who've avoided Lewis for years. Honestly, give him another try.

Click to Editorial Reviews