"the greatest sub-genre, ever."
Fiction:
The Human Stain(2003)
Based on the superb novel by Philip Roth, this film is not marked for its independent value, but a fine Anthony Hopkins pulls through a challenging role in the end. Not nearly as deserving of the insults hurled at it by A. O. Scott, it's still a decent portrayal of an academic in conflict with university politics and sexual exploration (with a disappointing Nicole Kidman).
Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
(1966)
Every actor in this film was nominated for an Academy Award. How can you go wrong? Liz Taylor and Richard Burton at their scotch-slugging, insult-hurling best.
Includes such memorable quotes as, " I swear to God George, if you even existed I'd divorce you." and "Martha, in my mind you're buried in cement right up to the neck. No, up to the nose, it's much quieter."
The Associate Professor in History married to the college president's daughter. New biology professor and his wife invited over for drinks after Fall semester meet & greet. Albee's best, and a great presentation in film by Mike Nichols. Also see his Wit, below.
Wit
(2001)
Yeah, sure it went straight to HBO. It had a great run on Broadway, didn't it? Mick Nichols directs a phenomenal Emma Thompson as Vivian Bearing, a literal, hardnosed English prof who has been diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. During the story, she reflects on her reactions to the cycle the cancer takes, the treatments, and significant events in her life.
At least nominally based on reality:
Iris
(2001)
Tells the story of Iris Murdoch's life and career, especially her relatipnship with John Bayley. Chronicles their love across 40 years, as well as their struggle with Murdoch's Alzheimer's disease. Dame Judi Dench, Jim Broadment, and Kate Winslet (young Iris) star. Check out the BBC's interesting article on what the film did for Dame Judi's career. Also includes some great historical shots of Judi's filmography and acting roles. Below, I indulgently include her shot with Jeremy Irons in 1978. Check out the trailer here.
Tom & Viv
(1994)
Willem Dafoe and Miranda Richardson play T. S. Eliot and Vivienne Haigh-Wood in a portrayal of their tempestuous marriage and Vivienne's "female troubles." Guest appearance of Bertrand Russell, played by Nickolas Grace. A little over-the-top, but there's nothing like Vivienne's brother complaining that Tom is "too British" and lays it on a little too thick. Gorgeous!