The Theory of Everything (2014)

Detailed Summary

Early Years and Diagnosis

Introduction to Stephen and Jane: The film opens with Stephen Hawking (Eddie Redmayne) as a young cosmology student at the University of Cambridge. He meets Jane Wilde (Felicity Jones), a literature student, at a party, and they quickly form a close bond.

Diagnosis of ALS: Stephen’s promising future is threatened when he is diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and given only two years to live. Despite the grim prognosis, Jane stands by him, and they marry.

Academic Achievements and Personal Struggles

Stephen’s Breakthrough: Defying the odds, Stephen continues his research and makes groundbreaking contributions to the field of theoretical physics, particularly with his work on black holes and the origins of the universe.

Family Life and Health Decline: The couple has three children, but Stephen’s condition continues to deteriorate, putting a strain on their marriage. Jane takes on the role of primary caregiver, sacrificing much of her own aspirations.

Relationship Strains and New Beginnings

Jonathan’s Support: Jane meets Jonathan (Charlie Cox), a widower and choir director, who becomes a close family friend and offers much-needed support. Jane and Jonathan develop feelings for each other, adding complexity to their already challenging situation.

Elaine’s Introduction: Stephen hires Elaine Mason (Maxine Peake) as his new nurse, and they develop a close relationship, leading to his eventual separation from Jane. Stephen and Jane’s marriage ends amicably, and he continues his life with Elaine.

Recognition and Legacy

Stephen’s Acclaim: Stephen’s book, “A Brief History of Time,” becomes an international bestseller, earning him worldwide recognition. Despite his physical limitations, he continues to inspire the world with his scientific achievements and resilience.

Final Scenes: The film concludes with Stephen being honored by the Queen and reflects on his journey, emphasizing his contributions to science and his unyielding spirit.

Movie Ending

The movie ends on a hopeful note, highlighting Stephen’s accomplishments and the enduring bond between him and Jane, despite their separation. Stephen continues his work with Elaine by his side, while Jane finds happiness with Jonathan.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “The Theory of Everything” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

This film is a biographical romantic drama, focusing on the life and achievements of Stephen Hawking and his relationship with Jane Wilde.

Cast

• Eddie Redmayne as Stephen Hawking
• Felicity Jones as Jane Hawking
• Charlie Cox as Jonathan Hellyer Jones
• Emily Watson as Beryl Wilde
• Simon McBurney as Frank Hawking
• David Thewlis as Dennis Sciama
• Maxine Peake as Elaine Mason

Film Music and Composer

The film’s score is composed by Jóhann Jóhannsson, who received critical acclaim and an Academy Award nomination for his work. The music beautifully complements the emotional and intellectual journey of the characters.

Filming Locations

• Cambridge, England: Many scenes were shot at the University of Cambridge, where Stephen Hawking studied and worked, providing an authentic backdrop.
• London, England: Various locations around London were used for additional scenes, adding to the film’s British setting.

These locations are integral to portraying the real-life environments of Stephen Hawking’s life and career.

Awards and Nominations

• Academy Awards: Won Best Actor (Eddie Redmayne). Nominated for Best Picture, Best Actress (Felicity Jones), Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Original Score.
• Golden Globe Awards: Won Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Drama (Eddie Redmayne) and Best Original Score. Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama, and Best Actress in a Motion Picture – Drama (Felicity Jones).
• BAFTA Awards: Won Best Actor (Eddie Redmayne) and Best Adapted Screenplay. Nominated for Best Film, Best Actress (Felicity Jones), Best British Film, Best Original Music, and Best Director.

Behind the Scenes Insights

• Eddie Redmayne spent months researching Stephen Hawking’s life and condition, meeting with Hawking himself and ALS patients to accurately portray the progression of the disease.
• Felicity Jones and Jane Hawking developed a close relationship, allowing Jones to capture the nuances of Jane’s character.
• The film’s production involved close collaboration with the Hawking family to ensure an authentic representation of their story.

Inspirations and References

• Source Material: The film is based on Jane Hawking’s memoir “Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen,” providing an intimate look at their relationship.
• Scientific and Biographical Works: Incorporates elements from Stephen Hawking’s own works and his public life.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

There are no widely known alternate endings, but some scenes were trimmed for pacing. Deleted scenes mainly focus on additional moments between Stephen and Jane, further highlighting their personal struggles.

Book Adaptations and Differences

• Focus on Relationship: The film centers more on the personal relationship between Stephen and Jane, while the book provides a broader view of their life together, including more details on their family and Stephen’s career.
• Compression of Events: Some events and timelines are condensed for cinematic purposes.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

• The Diagnosis: The heartbreaking moment when Stephen is diagnosed with ALS.
• Stephen’s Speech: Using his computer-generated voice for the first time to give a lecture.
• The Dance: Stephen and Jane’s romantic dance at the May Ball.
• The Stairs: Stephen struggles to climb the stairs, symbolizing his fight against ALS.

Iconic Quotes

• “There should be no boundaries to human endeavor. We are all different. However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do, and succeed at. While there’s life, there is hope.” – Stephen Hawking
• “Look what we made.” – Stephen Hawking, referring to their children during a reflective moment with Jane.
• “I have loved you. I did my best.” – Jane Hawking

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

• The film subtly references Hawking’s real-life appearances in popular media, including his cameos in shows like “The Simpsons” and “Star Trek.”
• The recurring motif of the universe’s wonders and Stephen’s fascination with time are visually represented through the cinematography.

Trivia

• Eddie Redmayne met Stephen Hawking just five days before filming began, and Hawking allowed the filmmakers to use his actual voice for the speech synthesis scenes.
• Redmayne’s portrayal of Stephen Hawking was so convincing that some people on set mistook him for the real Hawking.
• The film’s production team worked closely with ALS specialists to ensure an accurate depiction of the disease’s progression.

Why Watch?

“The Theory of Everything” is a beautifully crafted film that offers an inspiring and deeply moving portrayal of Stephen Hawking’s life and achievements. It’s a story of love, resilience, and the unyielding human spirit, brought to life by exceptional performances from Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones.

Director’s Other Movies

• Man on Wire (2008)
• Shadow Dancer (2012)
• The Mercy (2018)
• The Aeronauts (2019)

Recommended Films for Fans

• A Beautiful Mind (2001)
• The Imitation Game (2014)
• The Danish Girl (2015)
• Hidden Figures (2016)
• The King’s Speech (2010)