FILM
THE THEORY OF EVERYTHING
T
he Theory of Everything chronicles the life of Stephen and Jane Hawking from their budding romance to their ultimate separation decades later. This film was adapted from
Jane Wilde Hawking’s memoir, Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen. In the midst of
Stephen’s great scientific achievements and deterioration in physical abilities, the central
focus is on their relationship from Jane’s point of view.
From the beginning of the movie, set in Cambridge, England, we see Stephen’s genius
sets him apart from his colleagues, possessing a sense of humour and confidence. Jane
is introduced as a soft-spoken yet strong-willed woman, and soon thereafter an optimistic
and tenacious individual. Very early on in their relationship Stephen finds out that he has
motor neuron disease and is given a two-year life expectancy. He is told that he will lose
functioning in his muscular system including his speech, swallowing abilities, and physical
movement. Stephen isolates himself and tries to end his relationship with Jane. Upon hearing the devastating news, Jane confronts Stephen, and without hesitation tells him that she
loves him and wants to be with him in spite of their short-lived future.
Eddie Redmayne’s portrayal of Hawking was nothing short of spectacular. He took home
the Best Actor Oscar and Golden Globe this year. In a short time, Hawking’s health transitions