Tags
2010's, Based on a true story, Biopic, Charlie Cox, David Thewlis, Drama, Eddie Redmayne, Emily Watson, Felicity Jones, James Marsh, Maxine Peake, Simon McBurney, Stephen Hawking, The Theory of Everything
Film Title
The Theory of Everything
Director
James Marsh
Starring
- Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking
- Felicity Jones as Jane Hawking
- Charlie Cox as Jonathan
- David Thewlis as Dennis Sciama
- Simon McBurney as Frank Hawking
- Emily Watson as Beryl Wilde
- Maxine Peake as Elaine
A soaring and immensely moving movie based on the journey of Stephen Hawking and his first wife Jane, as they defied the odds stacked against them, The Theory of Everything has both emotion and insight into a brilliant mind that refused to be halted, despite the dark prognosis given to him and how his wife persevered and supported him.
We begin with Stephen Hawking in 1963 where he is a theoretical physics student at Cambridge. He is especially gifted at maths and curious about cosmology, yet hasn’t decided on what to do for a thesis. Around this time, he meets pretty literature student Jane. Both are of different ideals; Stephen believing in stars and science, while Jane is more artistic and a believer in God. Both start to fall in love and Stephen also begins to become interested in studying time for his thesis. Yet his burgeoning relationship with Jane and are dealt a devastating blow. His muscles start to play up and after a nasty fall and examination, he is diagnosed with ALS; which directly affects muscles, the body and eventually his ability to walk, speak and breath. He is also told that he only has around two years to live. Reeling from this, Stephen throws himself into his theories and attempts to push Jane away, but she refuses as she is deeply in love with him. Together, they marry, have children and instead of giving up, continue to face the hardships of his condition head on. Yet as time goes on, Stephen’s condition worsens and it takes a toll on Jane. She dearly loves him, but the strain of his debilitating body and dependence on her is becoming more difficult to bear. Stephen excels with his theories and experiences success as a respected scientist speaking of the universe and how it came to be, but can obviously see that his condition is not something he can just ignore. As everything grows more testing, Stephen and Jane are forced to confront what to do next, despite their deep love for the other.
James Marsh sensitively directs this biopic with a clear understanding of visual and emotional depth. In terms of pacing, he pitches things just at the right speed, only tripping up sometimes and rarely at that. Other than that, Marsh has a good eye for pattern and symmetry, particularly in reference to Stephen’s study represented by swirling and circular spirals. Kudos must be awarded to the cinematography in this biopic that practically shimmers and lends a hopefulness to what is already a highly moving and extraordinary story. The occasional use of an old style camera, complete with grain and colour abrasion, is also notable in capturing the changing events and as a passage of time for the couple. It’s the emotional core of Stephen and Jane that really stands out the most, as they take on the deafening odds and continue to challenge what they’ve been told. We are invested in their love for each other; we get to glimpse those moments when both realise that it’s not as easy or as straightforward as love just being enough, yet there is still a very touching sense of bond that transcends all the darkness they endure. Both may overcome severe obstacles thrown at them, but there’s a refreshing honesty to The Theory of Everything that underlines how even the strongest of loves can be shaken and pushed to breaking point. Overall, it’s the inspiring nature of the story that is what sells The Theory of Everything, depicting Stephen’s refusal to stop working and Jane’s backbone of steel in supporting him. The resilience that both of them show and went through for real is simply outstanding, considering the initially dire outcome that was predicted for Stephen upon diagnosis. Pathos and uplifting moments are frequently employed and add significantly to the difficult journey of Stephen and Jane; one that is testing as it is rewarding. Some may quibble with the often sprightly pace of the film which only occasionally gets in the way. Though saying that, as the story covers such a large area of time, it seems only right to cut any flab and focus on the emotional and personal crux of it all. In that sense, it cuts straight to the heart of the deeply engaging and honest story observed. And while it does that, it still takes time, especially in the beginning to foreshadow the decline of Stephen’s health through various hints. I simply have to commend the score of this movie that moves through lovely rhythms and melancholy moods with a clear command and soulfulness. It brings out such a richly evocative to an already
What really invests your heart and soul in is the two sublime performances from Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones. Eddie Redmayne, in an Oscar-winning performance, is a physical and emotional marvel as the renowned Stephen Hawking. He completely transforms into the part; displaying the deep intellect of his mind, ability to crack a joke even in dire situations and in latter stages when his condition has rendered him unable to speak and largely paralysed, his face and eyes say so much to us all. We truly feel the palpable toll his diagnosis takes on him, but how he is not going to simply give up on his dreams. The difficulties of Stephen’s deterioration physically only seem to make his mind more determined to thrive, a quirk that Redmayne fully explores and exudes with clear nuance and clarity. He is so invested in role that you forget that it’s an actor playing a part, such is the conviction and dedication to the task of playing Hawking that Redmayne does with every fibre of his being. Redmayne fully warranted the Oscar he received for his powerful performance here.
No less excellent or beautifully nuanced is Felicity Jones as his wife Jane. Jones has that ability to really suggest her innermost feelings without saying a word, as it is clearly written over her face. This skill is wonderfully employed in a sensitive performance of immense strength and vulnerability from the talented Jones. Jane is a lovely person but no pushover and a compelling force of inspiration, who can be a stalwart rock but is not immune to feelings of sadness and deep uncertainty. Both stars have a sensitive and deeply felt bond with each other that resonates deeply and will stir your feelings. Supporting players are finely chosen, with Charlie Cox, David Thewlis, Simon McBurney, Emily Watson and Maxine Peake fleshing it out. But the film ultimately belongs to Redmayne and Jones.
Anchored by two beautiful performances and strikingly directed and scored, The Theory of Everything celebrates strength and love in the face of adversity. Plus, it allows an understanding into the mind of Hawking and how he triumphed, with help from Jane, to become the respected man he is still now.
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TToE is such a beautiful film: the performances of both leads, the supporting cast, the story, and the music. Redmayne fully deserved his Oscar, but I felt that Felicity Jones deserved more credit than she received as her character, while doesn’t go through the physical mill, she goes through the mental agony of seeing her husband completely change before her eyes. And Jones portrays that in a poignant and understated manner.
I listen to The Cinematic Orchestra- Arrival of Birds on a regular basis as it is a wonderful piece of music.
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Yes I too found that Felicity Jones was just as good as Redmayne. Through her face, you could see her love for this man and alternating strength and vulnerability. Both of them worked beautifully together and as a film, it was both heartrending and uplifting.
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She is such an underrated actor, hopefully with this film and Rogue One under her belt she will get even more good roles and the acclaim to go with it.
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I am hoping for the same too. She possesses a naturalness to her acting, never overly showy or manufactured. It always feels so genuine.
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Eddie redmayne is awesomeness
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He is a very good actor it must be said. His work here was extraordinary.
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I usually rate Eddie, and have nothing against Mr Hawking. But I honestly have zero interest in this film. I just don’t feel the need to know or understand his ‘story’. I know that might sound bad, but it’s not meant to be nasty. I feel the same about sport bipoics, and other bios of people I have no interest in.
Best wishes, Pete.
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I don’t think that sounds bad at all. We all have different things that interest us and make us unique.
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I do like Eddie Redmayne but can’t summon up the will to see this. I have however, seen the 2004 TV movie Hawking, starring Benedict Cumberbatch who won the Golden Nymph for Best Performance by an Actor in a TV Film or Miniseries, and received his first nomination for a BAFTA TV Award for Best Actor. So I don’t feel the need to see it all again.
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I had no idea there was a TV movie of Hawking’s story. Must find that now.
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It was really good V-man, Cumberbatch I’m sure is quite equal to Eddie.
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I’ll keep my eye out for it.
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I didn’t care too much for this film. Felicity is sweet to look at, and Eddie did a fine job with the physical transformation, but it was the story that I found dull. Sorry, Vinnieh. Nice review, however!
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We can’t all agree, Cindy. As I’ve said many times, there would be no point in blogging if everyone agreed on every single thing. That would be no fun.
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Right you are!
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Blogging is fun when there’s a difference of opinion. It freshens things up.
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I loved this film and Eddie Redmayne is absolutely brilliant. Maybe I’m weird but I totally cried through it. A beautiful film that made a huge impression on me.
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That’s not weird at all, I cried too. It’s an emotional and inspiring story. Just watching both Stephen and Jane go through the wringer of ups and downs was poignant and so heartfelt.
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Absolutely!
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Nice to head from you Meg.
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Sorry I’m not around as much. Life intrudes you know?
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Oh I can totally relate. I’ve not been on here as much as usual.
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Alas, we found it stale and formulaic. Turned it off. Having said that, Felicity Jones was adorable.
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We can’t all love every movie the same. The enjoyment of discussing movies would go out the window if that were the case.
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We were probably overtired and grumpy. Sounds about right.
Something about Eddie R, though – in Fantastic Beasts he seemed ‘thin’, or it was written thin, can’t decide.
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If you ever find time to see it again, you may think differently.
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Man, this was such a terrific review. Your choice of words in describing the emotions on display in this film were really moving. It is a movie that I saw just appeared on Netflix, so I hope to maybe watch this on sunday if I can find some time for it. I think it’s the kind of movie that I usually highly enjoy watching. Thanks for this great post! 😊
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It really moved me as a film. And knowing it’s based on true events heightens it’s resonance. I think you’ll appreciate this movie a lot.
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I have avoided seeing this film because my father has a severe case of dementia. He used to very physical,sailing, skiing, golfing etc. In the space of 5 short months he went from being a municipal court judge (city matters) and then a provincial court judge who was only one step away from being on the highest court in the country, to a slack jawed old man,devoid of any muscle tone, who has no memory of his wife of 66 years or his three sons. I think the last time he knew who the heck I was 2012 !
I already have one biography in my dvd collection dealing with this ALS. That being said I want to take a look at it. I would have hoped to see Stephen Hawking’s opinion of the film in your review. You seem certainly taken with the film so I’ll give a look.
You might want to swing over to The New Movie House. I’ve already posted parts one and two about the fil 2010.
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I’m so sorry to hear about your father. It’s so sad and it annoys me that horrible diseases seem to happen to decent people. This is a very good film but extremely emotional and at times heartbreaking. I’ll swing by your site when I get time.
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I LOVE this movie!!! It really made me cry and Eddie is amazing
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I too cried during it. Eddie Redmayne was simply fantastic in a transformative performance.
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Really. He was.
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I was just so impressed with his work and that of Felicity Jones.
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Same!! They are both incredible and they have a great connection
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It was palpable and so thoroughly convincing.
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I’m glad you noticed the circles that were used as storytelling motifs; it begins with Hawking moving in a circular path, and has a spiral staircase, bike wheels, etc., as some of its recurring images.
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I found it a very neat aspect of the film that said so much visually. And it made for some beautiful shots,
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I do like this film though I prefer A Brief History of Time which is about Stephen Hawking though this is still a good film even though I think Michael Keaton should’ve gotten the Oscar instead of Redmayne.
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I simply must see that film you’re talking about there. Many have recommended it to me.
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Spot on review Vinnie. Loved this movie!
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Thank you Kim. It really touched me and inspired me watching the fortitude of both Stephen and Jane.
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I also reviewed a movie called Weekend, a beautifully acted and sensitive movie.
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I bookmarked it Vinnie.
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I’ve got a few of your posts bookmarked. Just had a busy day, but will make time over the weekend to read them.
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Awesome. I’ve missed you here.
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You’re so sweet.
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🤗
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I stayed away from this one, because I didn’t think Hollywood would do it right. Seems I was remiss…
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The subject matter is really well presented with emotional resonance here.
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One of my favourite movies of all time…
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It’s certainly an emotionally powerful one.
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I totally agree!
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Thanks for checking my blog out.
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You’re welcome. 😄
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Hope you enjoy my other reviews.
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I will surely check those out. And thanks for following us.
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It was a pleasure to follow you.
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Your review is a great example of how a movie should be rightfully perceived by an audience. You have gone beyond the mere superficial level and analysed the most crucial unsuspecting aspects of the characters and their chemistry. A good observation along with beautiful syntax of words leaves one in joy. Honestly delighted to read your review 🙂
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Oh wow, you’re comment has made my day. I’m thrilled you really loved my review. That’s all I hope for when reviewing, that someone will like it.
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Keep up your good job 🙂
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Thanks for your support. Here’s another review that I liked writing. https://vinnieh.wordpress.com/2017/09/07/weekend/
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Your review nails it. A very moving film. Was great to find out more about his personal film.
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Thanks for your comment. I was immensely moved by the inspiring story of Hawking and Jane.
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Life rather. More than most movies, it needed performances from its main leads, and they delivered big time.
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Oh they were powerful and soulful throughout. Two beautiful performance.
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They were so convincing i thought they might be a real life couple
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I would say so too, they had lovely chemistry.
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Such a beautiful film and your review was also very good. Loved Eddie Redmayne and throughout the film I could only see him as Stephen Hawkings and every scene was so beautiful. I couldn’t have imagined any other actor portraying the character with utmost dedication and the casting was perfect. (Though Benedict cumberbatch played the role in television and I have not seen it.) It reminded me of Marion Cotillard from La Vie en rose and Dev Patel from Lion. No just the impersonation of the character but they were able to capture the real essence. At one point it seemed that he wad possessed by the spirit of Stephen Hawking.( Cotillard was literally possessed by edith piaf and Patel by Saroo).
Felicity Jones as his wife was equally enchanting as well. To the Redmayne’s character her subtle performance wad nuanced and ad the supporting wife she was brilliant and mind blowing. I loved the croquet scene so much and not just for Redmayne but Jones stole that spot.
Sorry for the long comment though!
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Never apologise for a long comment. I enjoy when someone comments with passion.
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with a lot of spelling mistakes though…
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