Director: James Marsh
By Alex Watson
Stephen Hawking is without question one of the great minds in history. His book 'A Brief History of Time' changed how we each think about the universe and time itself. Not only that, but he has been a great fighter and has achieved so much whilst under going a lifelong battle with Motor Neurone Disease. But what do we really know of the man himself? This week British director, James Marsh brings us an up close look at how the man came to be in his emotionally enthralling biopic The Theory of Everything.
Young Cambridge student Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) is undertaking a doctorate in Physics. While studying he begins a whirlwind romance with fellow student Jane Wild (Felicity Jones) and embarks on a radical studying involving time. But a crushing blow is dealt when he is diagnosed with motor neurone disease and only given a short time to live! Refusing to let life slip away, Hawking will put a bold fight and continue to climb mountains while his body deteriorates.
The Theory of Everything is a poignant and fitting tribute to the legacy of Hawking and effectively captures his never say die spirit! Starting as almost a charming romantic tale, the brilliant but social awkward Stephen romances Jane at a dance whilst giving an eloquent a speech about how Tide washing powder makes the men's shirts glow under the lights. Events have a cute and magnetic feeling to them and this slightly mismatched pair make our hearts glow. However, the moment Hawking takes a life changing tumble to the ground- the diagnosis is one that essentially leaves him a prisoner in his own body.
Marsh from this point documents his struggle magnificently and the strain of his declining health is shared by both parties. The crushing pain that Hawking experiences when he believed his life was coming to an end is heartbreaking. His refusal to throw in the towel though, becomes the movie's principle strength. This story is no fairy tale by any means, while Stephen is continuing to achieve brilliance is spite of his body and speech failing, Jane is bearing the brunt of the pressure and her own life goals take a back seat to caring. In the presence of this sometimes difficult man, we find ourselves wondering if this life would have been any different with Hawking in full health?
Throughout The Theory of Everything, Hawking is not fully absolved from any blame because his success alienates him from the people he cares for most. The movie does wonderfully capture his unique sense of humour and how even in the hardest times, Hawking was able to crack a smile. One memorable scene sees him saying 'Exterminate' in his new computer voice! Even without when his voice is eventually lost, the man still resolves to be heard. There may be a lack of scientific talk, but Marsh's movie isn't focuses on celebrating his achievements, it is far more interested in a life less ordinary.
But the principle strength of this film comes from an astounding performance from Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking. Playing the man from start to finish, Redmayne gives a performance that although physical demanding is one that uncovers side to Hawking that many didn't existed! The single most impressive feature of this remarkable turn is Redmayne's ability to express emotion through only facial expressions. Now a firm contender for big awards, the man has now arrived on the world stage! Felicity Jones also stakes her own claim with a heart stealing support turn as Jane. Throughout she matches Redmayne for strength and does a good job of showing the cracks appearing despite her undying love!
Also look out for great supporting turns from the ever reliable David Thewlis and a greatly repressed turn from Boardwalk Empire's Charlie Cox.
Finally the film world has a depiction of Stephen Hawking's life that is one to savour! The Theory of Everything is an emotional roller-coaster that refuses to let you off until the films conclusion! Expect acting nominations for the centre pair because they are thoroughly deserved.
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