Stephen Hawking is an exceptional man, who has achieved exceptional things and lived a life beyond hope for many in a similar position. The Theory of Everything attempts to match his strength, wisdom and singularity in its own 123 minute running time, but can it achieve such a challenging feat?
The element of comedy within the film is well presented, the slightly foolish smile and the boyish humour of Stephen really draws you to him. However these moments of comedy provoke an emotional response strangely lacking in other areas. While understandable, it would seem the producers have shied away from the more visceral parts of Stephen’s life. His first struggles with the disease are diluted by constant perspective shifts to Jane and by cutting quickly to his more progressed state. Knowing people dealing with Stephen’s condition, I wanted to understand more than just the physical implications; I wanted to discover his feelings, what gave him hope and despair beyond the obvious. Did he question the point of his work? Did he reach out to God in desperation? Instead the film follows the implications of his state on his loved ones, his physical deterioration and an occasional show of sadness. These events could be guessed at without even seeing the film.
On the other hand the set is a major highlight of the film. Tastefully recreated, it is fascinating to see just what Hawking’s world of academia looked like. Within the bounds of Cambridge rooms of carved oak, stained glass windows and turrets and towers clad in ivy make Hawking’s environment seem like another world. There is little doubt this safe place full of knowledge, power and money had much to do with Hawking’s survival, he was lucky to be the man he was in the place he was.
The camera work provides little of fault but little to praise, as there’s no particular artistic flair but for a few key scenes. And most of these you can see from the trailer. The sound track is similarly uninspired, with the recent blockbuster Guardians of the Galaxy acting as a burning reminder of just how much can be added to a production.
On a more positive note Hawking was reincarnated to perfection by Eddie Redmayne who captivated with jokes and wisdom from Hawking’s life, it does seem like these however are a credit to Redmayne and Hawking, not the scriptwriters.
Leaving the film, I was inspired by the wit of Stephen Hawking, his tenacity, hope, and the endless possibilities of human endeavour. I will set myself to finding a copy of his books and to understand more about the insight he has to offer. However, as a film in its own right I much preferred the chicken quesadillas I consumed in the restaurant beforehand.
Author: Joe, Bath store
