An under-the-radar period drama is captivating audiences across the globe, with viewers describing the film as an 'almost spiritual' experience. The biographical drama has left audiences 'surprised' by just how impressive the film is, with viewers declaring they were 'enthralled from the very first cut'.
Plot and Cast
Written and directed by Matthew Brown, The Man Who Knew Infinity is based on novelist Robert Kanigel's 1991 book of the same name. Released in cinemas in April 2016, the film is available to stream on Netflix. The historical biopic shines a spotlight on the life of groundbreaking Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, who rose from humble beginnings yet possessed such a remarkable intellect that he earned a place at Cambridge University during the First World War. It was there that the mathematician encountered his mentor and fellow collaborator GH Hardy, and the pair forged a bond that proved truly worthy of the silver screen.
The film's official synopsis states: 'The story of the life and academic career of the pioneer Indian mathematician, Srinivasa Ramanujan, and his friendship with his mentor, Professor G.H. Hardy.' The film stars Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire) in the lead role as Srinivasa Ramanujan, alongside Jeremy Irons, who portrays GH Hardy. Devika Bhise, Toby Jones, Stephen Fry, Jeremy Northam, Kevin McNally, Enzo Cilenti, Arundhati Nag, and Dhritiman Chatterjee complete an impressive supporting cast. The film was filmed on location at Trinity College, Cambridge, in 2014, following eight years in development.
Critical Reception
Audiences have drawn comparisons between the biographical period drama and critically acclaimed classics such as Chariots of Fire, A Beautiful Mind, Oppenheimer and Good Will Hunting, leaving fans completely bowled over. One critic said of the film: 'There is something almost spiritual about this film that makes it more than just a maths biopic.' While another reviewer wrote: 'The Man Who Knew Infinity is a delightful film of a breed that we so rarely see. I hope it finds an audience.' A third critic said: 'There is not a dull moment, not a single false step in this picture. The Man Who Knew Infinity is a powerful story that will stand on its own merit.'
Audience Reactions
Audiences have been equally enthralled, with one viewer writing on Rotten Tomatoes: 'Similar vein to other academic favorites like A Beautiful Mind, Oppenheimer and Good Will Hunting. Sad and inspiring - lost another genius far too young.' Another admirer of the period drama added: 'The script and the filming are every bit as good as Chariots of Fire, except that all the characters are likable. The movie leaves you with a feeling that you wish you had friends like that.' One viewer posted: 'I wasn't expecting much, but what a surprise this film was! A true story of inspiration - it gives us a glimpse into our history of racism, and how a strong, beautifully driven spirit overcame all obstacles while remaining true to himself and his beliefs. Great for the whole family!'
Meanwhile, an IMDB user review of the historical biopic says: 'So beautifully directed, enthralling from the very first cut. This is so far the finest performance by Dev Patel. Without Jeremy Irons this film would have been toothless, seeing him for the first time I have never seen a character executed with such panache. Overall a film cannot get better than this, there are some flaws which every film has but are forgivable and probably intended to show the audience that way. Not a film to watch for the entertainment value only but solely for the essence of film watching. A standing ovation to Matthew Brown.'
The Man Who Knew Infinity is currently available to stream on Netflix.
