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Creation
Creation tells the story of Charles Darwin (Paul Bettany), in the
lead up to him writing his single greatest work; The Origin of Species.
We follow Darwin in his idyllic Victorian family life as he connects
with his children by sharing the stories of his many journeys and
experiences around the globe, most notably with his daughter Annie
(Martha West), while also furthering his scientific studies that
conflict with the beliefs of his wife, Emma (Jennifer Connelly), a
deeply religious Christian. Events culminate that almost drive Darwin to
an early grave before he has a chance to finish what has come to be one
of the single most important pieces of writing ever.
Paul
Bettany gives a sincere and heartfelt performance, of a man struggling
to continue his work and his life after a great personal tragedy that
almost drives him to ultimate ruin. Bettany is the single most reason to
watch this film and the second most being Martha West as his eldest
daughter, Annie Darwin. She brings a great sense of maturity and
innocence to her role, which is very pleasant and refreshing to watch.
Bettany’s real life wife, Jennifer Connelly comes out with another great
performance as Emma Darwin, the wife of Charles. Hers is the most
complex, showing the love that she has for her scientific minded husband
vs. the love for her God and the balance she has to find between the
two. She plays a deeply religious woman, who believes in her unshakeable
faith, but also trying to support the scientific ideas and theories of
her husband. It all makes for a very interesting story to watch.
In the
extras department, what we get are some interesting docos on the making
of the film and a look at the real Charles Darwin, his scientific ideas
and even into his home, which is still today, exactly as it was when he
and his family lived there, even with all the same furnishings.
When
it comes down to the wire, what we are left with is an emotionally deep
and human tale that is the lead up to the single most creative and
controversial idea ever put to paper. Bettany is the one to watch here.
His performance is the key. Creation is a film full of big ideas
that make you think and a very human heart that will also make you feel. |
