The Theory of Everything (2014)
Everything Stephen Hawking, except the theory.
Presentation:
A biography of Stephen Hawking that is quite beautifully shot assisted by a magical score by Johann Johannsson. However, the visuals wane as the film progresses with lighting, cinematography and the magic fading as time goes on. Eddie Redmayne gives an oscar worthy performance of the genius cripple, which is truly commendable when he is required to carry the brunt of the emotions of the film despite not being able to actually use his facial muscles. Felicity Jones is also endearing as Jane Hawking and you root for them both despite some of their questionable decisions.
Conclusion:
Although this film will surely be touching for many audiences, as a biography I felt disappointed as it focused more on Hawking’s drama in his private life as opposed to his work. You should leave the theater not knowing much more about the details of his legacy or work, which take a significant backseat for this film. You know it has something to do with black holes and the universe, but this black hole never really sucked me in. Surely this is the reason you want to watch a biography of a physicist? And yet the writers didn’t think audiences could handle it, barely scratching the surface of the science. His theories should be the star of the movie, but his marriage and condition are instead. It could really pass as any generic romantic drama following the difficulties of a gradually deteriorating man. Maybe academically Hawking didn’t really have a particularly interesting life, but I failed to really care about him when his research and work in the later years are barely touched upon. Perhaps it’s because I’m a nerd and the most interesting parts of the film are the beginning when we do get scientific. There’s an argument that this would make a boring drama, but then why even make a film about a physicist? Despite the extraordinary circumstances, the forced melodrama undercuts how interesting Hawkings really is.
Recommendations
A compelling story even for those that don't care about baseball.