If I Had Known I Was a Genius (2007)

Movie Introduction
"If I Had Known I Was a Genius" is an American comedy-drama film, released in 2007, directed by Dominique Wirtschafter and composed by Markus Redmond. The movie includes Markus Reedman himself ahead role, who likewise penned the movie script, and consists of significant performances by Whoopi Goldberg, Keith David, and Sharon Stone.

Plot Summary
The movie provides the journey of a young African-American kid, Michael Reed (Markus Redmond), who struggles in a school system that fails to understand his intellect and remarkable skills. Although various IQ tests expose that Michael is a genius, his mother, played by Whoopi Goldberg, discreetly hides this fact from him and his abusive daddy, played by Keith David, to prevent him from being ostracized or dealt with differently by society.

Journey from Childhood to Adulthood
As the story advances, Michael browses high-school, college, and ultimately Hollywood, all the while oblivious to his amazing intelligence. Throughout his journey, he endures racial profiling, stereotyping, bullying, and career barriers. He attempts to suit, frequently reducing his talents to appear 'regular' among his peers and to excel in an industry controlled by white people. Along with these social issues, the story efficiently depicts Michael's dysfunctional family life which contributes to his battles.

Unraveling of Secrets
The lack of knowledge about his innate intellect continues up until his granny exposes the trick that he is a genius. This discovery strikes him hard, causing self-reflection and contemplation about his previous choices and awareness about his potential. From this moment, the movie moves its focus, highlighting how Michael strives to reconcile with his intricacies, accept his remarkable intelligence, and utilize it for his own improvement rather of hiding it.

Conclusion and Themes
"If I Had Known I Was a Genius" ends on a positive note as Michael starts to embrace his unusual intellect and moves towards self-fulfilment. Although the course is difficult, he concerns terms with his remarkable abilities and discovers a way to thrive without compromising his natural endowment.

The movie tackles essential themes such as racism, societal pressures, familial dilemmas and the battles faced by minorities. It likewise underlines the importance of self-realisation and approval, showing how one's originality, even if it sets them apart, need to be commemorated instead of suppressed.

Critical Reception
The film, in spite of having a compelling storyline and strong performances from a high-profile cast, received blended evaluations. Critics applauded the movie's interesting story, along with the efficiencies of Redmond, Goldberg, and Stone. Nevertheless, some felt the movie might have been directed better. Despite these criticisms, the film made a considerable impression on its audiences, who valued its honest representations of social concerns and the lead character's motivating journey of self-discovery and approval.

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