The Theory of Everything

The Theory of Everything is a profound and deeply moving film that encapsulates the extraordinary life of world-renowned theoretical physicist Stephen Hawking, an individual who dedicated his life to the detailed understanding of time and space itself. Known for his ground-breaking work in cosmology and physics, Hawking was also famous for his battle against a devastating disease. Yet, arguably, this movie isn't just an exposition of his monumental scientific contributions but also a homage to a transcendent tale of love, strength and determination.

In this breathtaking biographical romantic drama film that was released in 2014, we are invited to delve into the intimate world of Oxford university student Stephen Hawking, brilliantly portrayed by the talented Eddie Redmayne. Redmayne won his first Academy Award for Best Actor due to his mesmerizing performance in this role, wherein he beautifully captured both the intellectual brilliance and physical struggle of Hawking.

The narrative is inspired from the memoir "Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen" by Jane Hawking, Stephen's first wife. Supporting Redmayne is the radiant Felicity Jones who essays the role of Jane Hawking. She presents a palpable portrayal of resilience and stoicism, earning herself an Academy Award nomination. With a supporting cast that includes Tom Prior, the film bridges the textbook and the heart, presenting a narrative that is fascinating, moving, and consistently engaging.

Set against the historic backdrop of Cambridge University, the film starts in 1963 and explores the life of a young and vivacious Stephen Hawking. Hawking is introduced as an eccentric cosmology student working on his thesis and deeply fascinated by the concept of time. His life takes an exciting turn when he meets Jane Wilde, a student of literature, at a university party. The film beautifully captures their blooming love and companionship even as it doesn't shy away from the challenges that await them.

Just as Hawking's academic career is about to take off, he is devastatingly diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) shortly after his 21st birthday. Despite given a life expectancy of just two years by doctors, Hawking doesn’t retreat and continues his explorations into the unknown realms of universe. Jane, witnessing his determination and resilience and entirely smitten by his intellectual curiosity, decides to embrace the difficult journey with him and the two get married.

The film then oscillates between the realms of theoretical physics and the subtleties of human emotions as it charts Hawking's copious scientific achievements and his personal life with Jane. Bestowed with a beautiful and warm color palette, the film strikingly juxtaposes the grandeur of the cosmos with the complexities of life on earth. It presents a stunningly poetic exploration of numerous themes including love, disease, ambition, sacrifice, and human spirit.

The realism with each character's depiction and the accuracy of the events unraveling on screen is credited to Director James Marsh, who treats the subject matter with a sensitive touch and respect. The screenplay by Anthony McCarten is also worthy of praise as it is deftly written, balancing out the complex scientific theories with the intricacies of domestic life and personal emotions. The deft directing and acting, combined with a score that evokes a profound surge of emotion, make The Theory of Everything a truly remarkable cinematic masterpiece.

Although the film covers a vast area ranging from scientific concepts to medical struggle, it never feels overburdened or chaotic. Instead, it beautifully peels away the layers encapsulating the life of the brilliant Stephen Hawking - his persona, his mind, his intellect and perseverance. It provides a romantic glimpse into Hawking’s life and his utter determination to push scientific boundaries while living with a debilitating disease.

Overall, The Theory of Everything is more than just a biopic. It is a heartfelt tribute to a defiant man who, in his own words, saw life as a series of problems that he just had to solve. It is also a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of the human spirit, making it an exceptionally engaging, emotional and inspirational watch. The film, like the man himself, is a triumph over adversity, exuding the warmth of a romance, the courage of a battle, and the beauty of discovery. It will inspire viewers, evoke thought, and ensure Stephen Hawking’s astounding legacy lives on in the minds of many.