Pi
The world is ordered. Seemingly chaotic events have purpose, reason and order. All order can be explained in mathematical terms, thus, everything can be described by mathematics. This is the basic premise (as I understand it) of the work of Max Cohen, a brilliant young mathematician. He spends days at his computer in his pokey little apartment, trying to find the mathematical code that describes, and thus can predict changes in the stock market. One day his computer crashes, but just before it does it generates his long awaited stock market predictions and a long series of numbers.
Max visits his retired maths professor and mentions the number series. It transpires that several years before, the professor found the same series whilst doing research on pi.
A mysterious Wall Street firm, as well as a bizarre sect of the Jewish religion called the Kabbalah are closely watching Max’s work. The Wall Street firm is after Max’s research, the religious sect wants his help in interpreting the "Bible Code". The number series seems to have possible ramifications for both and Max is in danger for his life.
The film is shot in black and white, giving it a seamy, dank feel. As max begins to understand the mathematical sequence he becomes increasingly overwhelmed by the enormity of it all. He has terrible migraines that start to increase in intensity and frequency. He begins to lose his grip on reality. This is cleverly expressed through the film’s cinematography. We are drawn into his self-absorption by close ups, tightly framed shots, and the film takes on an increasingly claustrophobic look. Loud grinding noises and disturbing sounds accompany migraines and the film truly takes the viewer along for the disturbing ride through Max’s nervous breakdown.
Pi is an interesting low budget film, combining a good deal of mysticism and some interesting mathematical ideas.
Esther Speight
