The central conflict follows Ed Walters (Tim Robbins), a simple auto mechanic who falls for Catherine Boyd (Meg Ryan), a brilliant doctoral candidate and the niece of Albert Einstein (Walter Matthau).

By pretending to be a genius, Ed proves that his character—his kindness and passion—is what actually matters.

Compare it to other films of the 90s.

He rides motorcycles and plays pranks, suggesting that true genius is the ability to remain curious and playful.

Catherine is engaged to a rigid, pompous psychologist who views love through data.

Catherine believes she can only love a peer in intelligence.