The Theory of Everything was definitely an unexpected surprise. When it comes to movies about the life of someone real, it can always be hit or miss. For instance, the Lifetime Network produces some terrible movies. Sometimes, these movies leak into the theaters, where they turn out to be even more of a disappointment. Well, there is good news. The Theory of Everything was a beautiful film that takes a completely different perspective on what I expected to see when watching a movie about Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne).
The movie doesn't focus much on Hawking's discoveries. While it does provide a base for the story, his personal life becomes the focus. In the opening scene, Hawking meets his future wife, Jane (Felicity Jones). The on-screen chemistry is instant, and the audience knows that this will be a love story. When I write "love story," I am not talking about The Notebook. Stephen is diagnosed early with ALS, a disease inhibiting his motor skills. It is hard to watch his deterioration through the film, but it's even harder to watch Jane struggle to keep the family happy. She knows that his brilliant mind isn't fading, and when he is originally given a life expectancy of two years, she refused to give up. Both characters, while entirely different, develop such a strong and beautiful connection. Stephen is constantly trying to make Jane happy, even in his condition, and Jane is working hard to remind him that he is brilliant and to not give up. Together, they struggle through the norms of life, and the rarities.
While I knew a lot about Stephen Hawking's books before I went to see the film, I realized that I didn't know much about his personal life. The movie is based around Jane Hawking's book, Traveling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen. I did not know much about Jane and what she endured to keep him sane. At one point, temptation is brought into their lives, and Jane cannot decide if she wants to remain with Stephen or leave him for a man at her church. It was even hard for me to decide what I wanted for Jane. She was such a driving force, and while she wanted love, she also wanted an easier life. She has to make a decision that was even rough for the audience to decide. Even though Stephen was ill, he was not always the most cooperative husband.
The Theory of Everything was an excellent film, and I do believe it earned its place as one of the Best Picture nominees. Eddie Redmayne developed a wonderful Hawking. He also earned his spot as a Best Actor contender. Felicity Jones did well on portraying Jane, and while I had no problems with her acting, it wasn't as intense as some of her competition, but she was nominated as well. I urge viewers to go see this film when they can. If you cannot make it to the theater, it will be available to stream on February 17.
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