Synopsis:

I ORIGINS (2014), the second feature film from writer and director Mike Cahill, tells the story of Dr. Ian Gray, a molecular biologist studying the evolution of the eye. He finds his work permeating his life after a brief encounter with an exotic young woman who slips away from him. As his research continues years later with his lab partner Karen, they make a stunning scientific discovery that has far reaching implications and complicates both his scientific and spiritual beliefs. Traveling half way around the world, he risks everything he has ever known to validate his theory.

In this thought-provoking drama, two renown molecular biologists make a mind-blowing discovery that may unlock the greatest mysteries of life.

Review:

I truly loved the film for its approach, soundtrack and settings, with director Mike Cahill doing an excellent job casting Michael Pitt and Astrid Bergès-Frisbey to play the main characters.

Although the main subject of the film is supposed to be the evolution of the eye and the scientific endeavours of a small team of young researchers, while watching the movie, you are set to discover two opposing worlds, different lifestyles, beliefs and definitions of life.

Sofie, played by Astrid Bergès-Frisbey comes as a breath of fresh air both in the life of PHD student Ian Gray and in the storyline of the film itself. You get to love, yet pity Sofie instantly. Her innocence and true commitment to spirituality and life become a leitmotif in the first part of the film, bringing a balance in the life of atheist, science-devoted Ian Gray.

While their beliefs and lifelong engagements have nothing in common, whatsoever, love is sure to bring them together, inviting audiences to reflect on the idea of a coexistance, of a interdependance between real proof and man-made hope, agnosticism and hard-core science.

While watching this movie, I came to realise that eyes are truly the gate to one’s very soul. Despite its strong commitment to find an explanation for the evolution of the eye, Ian Gray falls victim to the labyrinths of Sophie’s eyes, discovering worlds that he not only never knew they existed, but which will change his life forever.

As I previously mentioned the soundtrack, I particularly liked the song ”Dust it off” by The Dø. Long after the film was over, I was still listening to this tune, letting myself immersed in the world created by the sounds, lyrics and the voice of lead singer Olivia Bouyssou Merilahti.

Have you watched the film, yet? What did you make of it? I would love to hear whether you agree or disagree with my brief review of the 2014 drama “I Origins” by Mike Cahill.