Pi

Finally a film post!
:)


I've missed writing on the magical world that is film.
I felt like watching this particular film because of having a discussion on popular films and various other media road tripping. We were all talking about how Requiem for a Dream (also directed by Darren Aronofsky) doesn't make you ever want to take drugs, and how it was freaky, and how we all have either watched Pi or planned to. So I decided to watch it.
It is the story of a gifted, talented mathematician (Maxamillion Cohen- on left) whose sees math and patterns in every aspect of life, and with that discovery he finds a new challenge-- trying to decipher the pattern of the stock market. One of the most fluctuating things this world offers. With this, and his advanced computer, he tries to figure out the pattern, but with this inquisition that leads him to new people, like number theorists who are figuring out the pattern of the Talmud, where they are both seeking out a 216 number sequence. But, as things seem to calculate and make sense and be equal, things change. Chaos erupts. And therefore with all the reinforcements he receives, he begins to lose sanity.
This was such an interesting film, with all the math sequences that reminded me of my geometry class, with the Fibonacci sequence, the eternal spiral that is used in all sorts of situations, whether it be Van Gogh, or in modern technology. I also was reminded of Fellini (8 1/2), which oddly enough I suggested in the conversation, mainly because of the imagery and the intense thoughts and way of filming-- you watch a man's life and yet you hear and see his thoughts. There really is nothing like movies like that. A black and white, trippy, visually entertaining film. Those kind of movies always seem to impress me. Darren Aronofsky always seems to do that. I also was thinking of Fight Club when I was watching it. So if that doesn't make you want to watch it, then I say watch it. Or any of the other films referenced. Even Metropolis, which is a silent sci-fi film that is filled with scientific, 1984, Steampunk elements. Look at the picture below.


I've noticed watching these films, Requiem for a Dream, Pi, and The Wrestler, that Darren seems to have an eye for cinematic innovation and ideas, all while watching someone going into a pit of despair, yet it is so hauntingly beautiful. Even when cringing at the image in front of you. Watch the films, there's that one point in all of them... don't let that scare you out of them. They are masterpieces. Who said that everything had to be all "dandelions and sunshine" to be beautiful? Whether it is about a down- and- out wrestler from the 80's bringing out a comeback in his life, a mathematician on the brink of a major discovery, or a family striving for their dreams- whatever they may be, he tells their story in such an interesting way that you will not forget. And that is a true mark of a good film.

Had to write on it, just watched it last night...