I Rewatched The Theory Of Everything And Realized It’s Not Just About Stephen Hawking

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When I initially saw the 2014 film “The Theory of Everything,” I didn’t just consider it a great movie; rather, much like many others likely did, I simply regarded it as “the film about Stephen Hawking.

The movie titled “The Theory of Everything” mainly concentrated on Hawking, as Eddie Redmayne, who played Hawking in the film, received an Academy Award for his portrayal. Notably, this movie illustrates how Hawking developed many theories that made him widely recognized.

Initially, I assumed that “The Theory of Everything” was merely about its central character’s scientific discoveries. However, upon a second viewing, I realized it was far richer than that. Unlike other films and shows that often seem to fall short when portraying disabled characters, this movie handles the subject matter with depth and sensitivity. It doesn’t just focus on the protagonist’s disability but also delves into the lives of those around him, providing a more holistic view of the experience. Allow me to elaborate further.

Watching The Progression Of Hawking’s Disability Reveals That It Could Happen To Anybody

One of my previous colleagues (since I’m a teacher aside from contributing to this site) had a spouse afflicted with Lou Gehrig’s Disease, or ALS. Realizing the delicacy of the matter, I mustered up the strength one time to ask about his condition, and she shared that each day was a constant battle for them.

I found it challenging to ask her about ALS because I had never come across anyone with this condition before, leaving me largely uninformed. However, the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge swept through social media, making it seem as if everyone was discussing this rare disease. This widespread conversation increased awareness on a national scale, but also made me understand that anyone could potentially develop it, including myself, since its causes are still not fully understood.

With the knowledge I’ve gathered freshly in mind, I revisited the film “The Theory of Everything” with a heightened sense of perception. The opening scenes present Stephen Hawking as a man seemingly blessed with all the riches: a prodigious intellect at Cambridge University (even if he was grappling with his thesis), a captivating girlfriend portrayed by Felicity Jones, whose tenacity in this movie echoes Jyn Erso’s from my beloved “Star Wars” film, “Rogue One,” and a strong network of friends.

However, he gradually loses his balance, and it’s determined that he has Motor Neuron Disease (MND), which is known as ALS in the U.S. His cognitive abilities remain intact, but his physical condition will decline, possibly rapidly. The medical professionals estimate he has only two years left to live.

In the film, there’s an individual with an extraordinary ability to conceive the origins of the universe, but unfortunately, he grapples with a disability. As the story unfolds, his Motor Neuron Disease worsens, although he outlives the typical two-year lifespan significantly, eventually ending up in a wheelchair and losing his ability to speak. Remarkably, he never allows this to hinder his pursuit of greatness. This film serves as a reminder that no one is exempt from illness, though it’s a stark and poignant truth.

It Is Also Intriguing To Watch How People Respond To His Disability

Initially, when I saw this film, my attention primarily centered on Stephen Hawking. But upon rewatching, I found myself paying close attention to the individuals surrounding him and their reactions towards his illness instead.

In that specific moment when Hawking learns his diagnosis from the actor portraying the doctor (Adam Godley), there’s an impression that the physician is making every effort to communicate the tragic news that Hawking will not live long, yet it seems evident to him that no intervention can prevent this outcome. As a result, the delivery of the news carries a sense of speaking to someone who is already deceased.

Later, when Hawking presents his thesis supported by two canes, the first query posed to him is if he’d prefer to sit down. However, he chooses not to and is inquired again about it.

Whenever I’m in the presence of someone using a wheelchair, I instinctively rush to open the door for them, to which they always express gratitude. However, I can’t help but question if I’m overstepping boundaries and if they’d prefer to handle it themselves. After all, I imagine they must encounter this kind gesture often, and I hope they don’t perceive my eagerness to assist as a reflection of my doubts about their independence. Frankly, it’s the last thing I’d want them to think.

Let’s return to the film discussion. In a subsequent scene, Hawking is portrayed having difficulty speaking, almost giving an illusion that he is physically present but mentally absent, surrounded by others conversing around him. Watching this a second time was more poignant for me, as I contemplated Stephen Hawking’s feelings when his wife discussed his theories with someone else on his behalf. The film is incredibly impactful, particularly since ALS could potentially affect anyone, much like what happened to Professor Hawking. Now, regarding his wife…

His Wife’s Effort To Come To Grips With His Struggle Feels Universal

Although the film “The Theory of Everything” is based on the memoir “Traveling to Infinity: My Life With Stephen,” written by his ex-wife, Jane Hawking, it’s important to note that it takes some creative liberties with the story. Unfortunately, this means that the portrayal of Jane in the movie may not be entirely accurate. Since I haven’t read the memoir, I can only judge based on the film, and the character of Jane in this film seems to depict Stephen Hawking’s ALS struggle similar to how I imagine my former colleague would have handled it.

In essence, she’s going above and beyond in her support. Throughout the movie, Jane stands by her husband wholeheartedly, choosing to marry him despite his diagnosis and bearing children with him, aware of the risks involved. Even when given an opportunity to end his life support, she declines.

She also finds a method for him to convey messages when he can no longer speak verbally. It’s reminiscent of the film, “Love & Mercy“, where Brian Wilson’s companion, Melinda Ledbetter, appeared to bend the rules of heaven to help her partner escape from his difficult situation against all odds.

Subsequently, Hawking carries on an affair with one of his nurses, prompting his wife, who demonstrates remarkable devotion, to reconnect with a man named Jonathan (portrayed by Charlie Cox from Daredevil), whom she holds deep affection for. It is evident that Jane made every effort for Stephen. Over time, she transitioned from spouse to caregiver, and both she and Stephen acknowledged that their relationship had evolved along those lines.

Initially when I watched the film, I felt Felicity Jones gave an outstanding performance, a fact underscored by her Oscar nomination. However, on my second watch, I came to realize that the narrative is equally about her character as it is about Stephen’s.

Seeing The Great Things That He Accomplished Is Reaffirming That People Will Always Be More Than Their Disability

In conclusion, one significant lesson from this movie is that even when faced with a fatal, dreadful illness, you have the power to transform the world. This notion is incredibly inspiring.

Reflecting on the Ice Bucket Challenge, I recall its massive surge even reaching celebrities. It all began modestly when Anthony Senerchia, now deceased, received an ALS diagnosis. Alongside his wife, they ignited a movement that stirred conversations around this debilitating disease.

Previously mentioned, I was acquainted with a single individual who was connected to another person diagnosed with ALS. However, in 2014 (the year when “The Theory of Everything” was released), it felt like everyone was discussing this condition extensively. This surge in conversations was largely due to a couple – the husband struggling with the disease and the wife eager to raise awareness and potentially find assistance for others in similar situations.

This film underscores the idea that individuals with disabilities are not defined solely by their condition. While their disability is indeed an integral aspect of their identity, it does not encapsulate everything about them. A prime example is Stephen Hawking, a renowned figure, who accomplished much despite being confined to a wheelchair.

Ultimately, it’s a tale of conquering the challenges, some of which may reside within yourself, and persevering regardless. This is a lesson I believe everyone could benefit from absorbing.

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2025-07-06 16:09