Featuring terrific performances by Dev Patel and Jeremy Irons, The Man Who Knew Infinity tells the story of Srinivasa Ramanujan, the Indian mathematician whose contributions to number theory, continued fractions and series revolutionized the field. This sweeping historical film about high science and the tragic repercussions of racism amongst the ostensibly enlightened is a testament to the wonder and precariousness of genius – and the power of friendship to change the world.

Opening near the dawn of the 20th century, the film follows Ramanujan (Patel) from his humble roots in Madras to Cambridge University, where the young prodigy’s visionary theories attract the attention of English mathematician G.H. Hardy (Irons). The chance to work in the hallowed halls where Isaac Newton formulated the laws of motion is a dream come true for Ramanujan but also proves to be a sort of nightmare. His colleagues, unable to see beyond his dark skin, harass and humiliate him, while Hardy insists that Ramanujan deliver countless proofs before being allowed to publish his work.

One of the most remarkable feats of the film is the way it renders Ramanujan’s complex theories understandable even to a layperson. But even more important is the film’s depiction of Ramanujan and Hardy’s difficult yet deep friendship and how the mutual love and respect transcend the obstacles of race, class, culture and tradition.

This is not so much a film about understanding the numbers, but understanding the men who made us see the merit and the passion that drives each of us to find the true meaning in our lives. – Miriam Di Nunzio, Chicago Sun Times

UK, 2015
English
114 min.
Director: Matthew Brown
Rating: PG

Note: Event copy provided by Columbia Valley Arts

Doors open at 6:30 PM – Film starts at 7:00 PM

Cash Bar and light refreshments.  Popcorn and other favorite theatre snacks.

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