Conflicting emotions on this movie

Rating: 6/10 (4 April 2012)

Pi begins with an interesting premise that brings excitement – solving a mathematical puzzle which has extensive implications financially, socially and spiritually. But this might just be its downfall. How can the movie resolve this incredible task and satisfy the audience? To dangle such a prize before us and not deliver leaves the viewer with a little resentment.
Storyline follows a genius and his mentor in pursuit of the 216 digit solution to a puzzle. Drugs and mental illness are a backdrop. He does figure it out and even states that he is the chosen one to receive this information because he is the only one able to understand it (syntax). Yet he ultimately is overwhelmed by it and chooses an extreme course of action to rid himself of this knowledge which can change the world. Bummer to the rest of us struggling to find the meaning of life and find "God."
Filmwork was interesting with lots of camera angles and editing. Sometimes the sounds were too piercing and unnecessary to get the message to viewers. I began to tire with the poking of the brain which showed up everywhere. More interaction with his mentor would have been appreciated as they worked well together and moved the story along. The mathematical theories and explanations were very short and offer the viewer no real additional knowledge or insight (at least to most individuals who have some form of higher education). I would have been open to an introduction of some new/different hypothesis even if it seemed far-fetched.
Decent film, but not one I would get excited when I knew it was on TV again; more of a study of art and filmmaking.