Watch Pi
- R
- 1998
- 1 hr 23 min
-
7.3 (186,618)
Pi is a dramatic and thought-provoking movie from 1998 that explores the relationship between mathematics, spirituality, and the human mind. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, the film stars Sean Gullette as Max Cohen, a reclusive mathematician who becomes obsessed with finding a pattern in the stock market using his homemade supercomputer.
The movie follows Max's descent into madness as he becomes increasingly convinced that his mathematical equations hold the key to unlocking the secrets of the universe. Mark Margolis plays Sol, Max's former mentor who is also interested in the same mathematical patterns, but for a different reason. Ben Shenkman co-stars as Lenny, a Hasidic Jew who hires Max to help him find the hidden number sequence that reveals God's true name.
As Max's obsession with his work deepens, he begins to experience a series of hallucinations and seizures. He is plagued by headaches and nosebleeds, and his health begins to deteriorate as he spends more and more time in front of his computer. Despite warnings from his doctor and his ex-girlfriend, Max continues down his path, convinced that he is on the brink of a breakthrough.
The movie is presented in black and white, which only adds to its stark and ominous tone. The cinematography is sharp and precise, with lots of close-ups of Max's face and hands as he furiously types away at his computer. There are also several sequences that use rapid-fire editing and frenzied camera movements to capture the intensity of Max's mental state.
One of the most interesting things about Pi is the way that it explores the intersection of science and spirituality. Max is a rationalist who believes that everything can be explained through mathematics, yet he finds himself drawn to the mystical teachings of the Kabbalah. He is torn between his analytical mind and his desire for transcendence, and the film does an excellent job of depicting this internal struggle.
Another theme of the movie is the danger of obsession. Max's single-minded pursuit of his work leads him down a dark path, isolating him from friends and loved ones and putting his health in jeopardy. The movie shows how easily a pursuit can turn into an all-consuming obsession, and how difficult it can be to pull oneself back from the brink.
Overall, Pi is a fascinating and unique film that explores complex themes in a compelling and visually striking way. Its unusual subject matter and experimental style won't be to everyone's taste, but those who are willing to go on this journey with Max will find a thought-provoking and deeply engaging experience.
Pi is a 1998 mystery with a runtime of 1 hour and 23 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3 and a MetaScore of 72.