The Theory of Filmmaking

Rating: 8/10 (6 January 2015)

Sigh, another biopic of an extremely brilliant man. Is there any point? Can we understand the scientific genius Stephen Hawking? Actually, as it turns out we can. Going into this film I was excited but somewhat sceptical. Biopics can be eye-opening; however we must be firmly grounded with the character at its core. If we lose focus, then a film may as well stop as far as I am concerned. What 'The Theory of Everything' chiefly gets right is that we are always engaged and care about the life of Stephen Hawking, which is no small task, especially when one considers how brainy the man is.
We enter the swinging sixties where a healthy Hawking studies Cosmology at Cambridge; he shares a room with Brian played by Harry Lloyd who has a perfect relationship with him, one that works off of the thoughts and excellence of the other. Eddie Redmayne plays the eccentric Hawking and gives a performance which will (and must) win him an Oscar. When you view the film you will find it hard to disagree. He is truly a breakthrough and does the man justice – yes he looks the part, but do not fear this man can act.
He meets the determined Jane played by Felicity Jones who manages to be one of the better female roles captured on film. Many may remember the cringe worthy performance supplied by the pretty but not reliable Keira Knightley in 'The Imitation Game', which is another biopic worthy of mention. Jones outshines her effortlessly and seems secure in the role. As Hawking's physical well-being deteriorates she remains strong and powerful in a role many may have swept to the side. That is harder to do, when you see what she manages to achieve. When we learn that his life will never be the same again, the film veers dangerously off course, prompting tears but not much of anything worthy of substance. Don't worry this is a small bump in an otherwise smooth journey.
As Hawking loses control of his muscles we are presented with an astonishing scene – one that will resonate throughout film history. As he prepares to leave the table from dinner he finds it difficult to walk up the stairs. As his legs give way he is forced to use his arms as his sole means of reaching his destination. As he looks up he sees his child whom is crawling on all fours without effort. This is a poignant parallel where Hawking sees what he has become, a small infant like child, one who is now dependent on others for his well-being.
Over two hours in length, the film's grip lets go in the last third. Consider this necessary as up to this point it has been breath-taking. The film after all had to give us room to breathe. 'The Theory of Everything' is a biopic that gets almost (well) everything right. The two leads are strong, the love story is believable. But, most importantly we always understand and never lose sight of Stephen Hawking. 'The Theory of Everything' passes with honours.