Cast
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Benedict Cumberbatch
as Stephen Hawking
Peter Firth
as Sir Fred Hoyle
Tom Ward
as Roger Penrose
Lisa Dillon
as Jane Wilde
John Sessions
as Dennis Sciama
Phoebe Nicholls
as Isobel Hawking
Michael Brandon
as Arno Penzias
Tom Hodgkins
as Robert Wilson
Alice Eve
as Martha Guthrie
Adam Godley
as Frank Hawking
Matthew Marsh
as Dr. John Holloway
Anastasia Hille
as Nurse Susan McClean
Christian Rubeck
as Reporter
Bertie Carvel
as George Ellis
Carolina Giammetta
as Lidia Sciama
Crew
Director
- Philip Martin
Writer
- Peter Moffat
Producer
- Jessica Pope
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Hawking examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Philip Martin brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2004, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Hawking took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 90 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 124 minutes long.
- The musical score contains over 68 unique compositions.
- The costume department created over 122 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2004, when this film is released:
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Hawking shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Charlotte, which focuses more on action than character development, Hawking offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Rodman: For Better or Worse and Il Divo explore similar territory, Hawking stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 10, 2004
- Runtime: 1h 30m
