Eddie Redmayne's performance as Stephen Hawking in the movie 'The Theory of Everything' has gained him commendations from critics everywhere, including a reportedly high possibility of achieving an Oscar nomination. However, it was the reaction of the world renowned theoretical physicist himself that indubitably validated the genuineness of the actor's portrayal.
"I thought Eddie Redmayne portrayed me very well," commented Hawking. "At times, I thought it was me," he added.
The film revolves around the love story of a young Hawking and Jane, his college sweetheart in Cambridge and eventually, his first wife. The movie is based on Jane's book called 'Travelling to Infinity: My Life with Stephen'. The pair only started dating when Hawking was diagnosed with motor neuron disease at 21 years old. Apart from learning of the devastating illness, doctors warned him that he only had two years left to live.
In an effort to ensure that he does not fall short in portraying the highly acclaimed physicist, Redmayne devoted time and attention to analyzing the movements and mannerisms of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).
The actor even decided to work with specialists who would take photographs of Hawking and analyze them. They would then use their observations to help Redmayne mimic the physicist's movements and reactions. In addition, Redmayne sought the guidance of a choreographer to assist him in mirroring the expressions correctly and flawlessly.
However, Redmayne admitted that he was most fascinated by the fact that Hawking had been a fit man before the disease took over his body. "When I was prepping for this part one of the most riveting parts of it was that I didn't know that he had been entirely healthy when he was younger," he revealed.
Despite his initial apprehensions, however, Redmayne gained the approval and admiration of Hawking. In fact, filmmakers in attendance with Hawking during the movie's premiere claimed that a nurse swiped away a tear from the physicist's eye after seeing the finished product the first time.
"I think Eddie's commitment will have a big emotional impact," Hawking said.
