The Nutty Professor (franchise)

The Nutty Professor franchise consists of American science fiction-slapstick comedies, including three theatrical films, one straight-to-home video release, and a musical stage play. Based on an original story by Jerry Lewis, inspired loosely by Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1886) by Robert Louis Stevenson.

The plot of each installment centers around individuals with genius-level Intelligence, yet awkward and nerdy social skills. Upon meeting beautiful women, they develop potions that transform them into attractive, confident, albeit villainous alternate personalities who attempt to take over their original counterparts. The series explores the concept of self worth.

The original film was a success both critically and financially, and has earned the status of being regarded as a comedy classic. It was ranked #99 by the American Film Institute on its 100 Years...100 Laughs list. A direct-sequel was eventually released in 2008, albeit an animated straight-to-home video release. Lewis reprised his role, though the movie centered around his grandson instead. Lewis continued involvement with the franchise as executive producer for the remake film and its sequel and then later served as director of a musical stage production in 2012.

The remake starring Eddie Murphy and released in 1996, was a success at the box office and received positive reviews from critics. A sequel was released in 2000 to mixed critical reception. Though it fared well financially, it was far from the success of its predecessor.

A reboot is in development, from Project X Entertainment.