Smart People Poster

Smart People 2008

★ 5.8282 votes95 min📅 2008-04-11

"Sometimes the smartest people have the most to learn"

In *Smart People (2008)*, directed by Noam Murro, a brilliant but socially inept university professor finds his carefully constructed life upended by the unpredictable forces of love and family.

Director: Noam Murro

Cast

Dennis Quaid
Dennis Quaid
Lawrence Wetherhold
Sarah Jessica Parker
Sarah Jessica Parker
Janet Hartigan
Thomas Haden Church
Thomas Haden Church
Chuck Wetherhold
Elliot Page
Elliot Page
Vanessa Wetherhold
Ashton Holmes
Ashton Holmes
James Wetherhold
Christine Lahti
Christine Lahti
Nancy
Camille Mana
Camille Mana
Missy
David Denman
David Denman
William
Don Wadsworth
Don Wadsworth
Hadley
Robert Haley
Robert Haley
Roth

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Smart People (2008) about?

The film follows Lawrence Wetherhold, a highly intelligent but socially awkward professor whose life takes an unexpected turn when his brother's visit and a budding romance force him to confront his emotional blind spots. It's a witty yet touching exploration of how even the brightest minds can struggle with the simplest human connections.

Who directed Smart People?

Noam Murro directed *Smart People*, bringing a sharp eye for both comedy and drama to Lawrence Wetherhold's story.

Who stars in Smart People?

The film stars Dennis Quaid, Sarah Jessica Parker, Thomas Haden Church, Elliot Page, and Christine Lahti in key roles.

Is Smart People (2008) worth watching?

*Smart People* is a charming, well-acted comedy-drama with broad appeal for fans of character-driven stories. While it may not break new ground, its clever dialogue, strong performances, and heartfelt moments make it a satisfying watch for those who enjoy nuanced rom-coms.

How long is Smart People?

*Smart People* has a runtime of 95 minutes.

🎥 Trailer

About Smart People (2008) — A Brilliant Professor Learns Life's Toughest Lessons

In *Smart People (2008)*, directed by Noam Murro, a brilliant but socially inept university professor finds his carefully constructed life upended by the unpredictable forces of love and family. Dennis Quaid delivers a masterfully dry performance as Lawrence Wetherhold, an academic so immersed in his own intellect that he struggles to navigate the messy realities of human connection. When his brother's arrival and a budding romance challenge his rigid worldview, Lawrence must confront the limits of his own genius.

The film blends sharp wit with poignant moments, exploring themes of intellectual arrogance, personal growth, and the universal struggles of relationships. With a stellar cast including Sarah Jessica Parker and Elliot Page, *Smart People* offers a clever, heartfelt take on the comedy of errors that comes when brains outpace emotional intelligence. Set against the backdrop of Pittsburgh's academic circles, the movie balances humor and drama, making it a standout in the rom-com-drama genre.