The Man Who Knew Infinity

The Man Who Knew Infinity, a 2015 biographical drama film, brings to life the exceptional story of a self-taught Indian mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan, played by the talented Dev Patel. The film, skillfully directed by Matthew Brown, is a bold, poignant, and honest depiction of a man who, against all odds, changed the course of mathematical theory — a man who certainly knew 'infinity' in a way most could only dream.

As viewers are introduced to the narrative, the biographical film begins in Madras, India, in 1914, where we meet Ramanujan, an impoverished accounting clerk in his 20s with a profound, un-nurtured gift for mathematics. His natural proclivity for complex mathematical theories and concepts is unmatched, but unfortunately, his raw talent is shackled by a lack of formal education and the limits of his impoverished background.

However, Ramanujan, resolute and passionate about his gift, continues to jot down groundbreaking mathematical discoveries in his worn-out, hand-stitched notebook. These discoveries would later become highly coveted by some of the most renowned mathematical scholars, making Ramanujan a mathematical prodigy in his own right.

As luck would have it, Ramanujan's talent doesn't go unnoticed for too long. His notebook eventually catches the attention of Cambridge University professor, G.H. Hardy, brought to life by the unforgettable Jeremy Irons. Hardy invites Ramanujan to England on realizing the depth of his untapped potential and the profound impact he could make on the realm of mathematical theory.

The film then takes viewers on Ramanujan's trailblazing journey in England, fighting his way through institutional racism, poor health, and the daunting First World War. Despite these overwhelming challenges, Ramanujan remains remarkably focused and determined, producing revolutionary theories that leave his Cambridge peers in awe.

However, the film isn't just a retelling of Ramanujan's academic accolades; it's also a study in the human experience, offering a nuanced look into the mathematician's emotional world. It investigates Ramanujan's unique resilience and strength, but also his struggles with loneliness and homesickness, notionally conveyed through Patel's raw and powerful portrayal.

Jeremy Irons, as the quintessentially distant and emotionally stoic G.H. Hardy, brings a poignant facet to the film. Hardy’s relationship with Ramanujan is the beating heart of the narrative, evolving from professor-pupil to one of deep respect and eventual friendship. Irons' compelling performance sheds light on Hardy's internal struggle, torn between his adherence to proof-based mathematics versus admiration and bewilderment towards Ramanujan's intuitive approach.

The cast is rounded off with a sterling performance by Malcolm Sinclair as Professor John Littlewood, Hardy's colleague, friend, and another integral part of Ramanujan's journey at Cambridge. Through Littlewood, the film subtly presents the audience with assembling dimensions of the mathematical world during the period.

The beautiful cinematography of the movie creates a vivid contrast between the vibrant colors of Madras and the muted, grey tones of Cambridge, signifying Ramanujan's drastic shift in reality. This, coupled with the tasteful period-appropriate costume design and attention to architectural details, lend the film an authentic historical look.

The Man Who Knew Infinity isn't just a biographical retelling of a mathematician’s life, but also a tale of determination, passion, friendship, sacrifice, and intellect, making it a must-watch for movie-loving audiences. With its powerful performances, the film immortalizes Ramanujan's story and his incomparable contribution to the world of mathematics.