Solid Geometry (2002)

Solid Geometry Poster

A successful young man's world view is turned upside-down when he inherits his great-great-grandfather's diaries, and starts pursuing the mystical geometric theories held within. Based on a short story by Ian McEwan.

Introduction to "Solid Geometry"
"Solid Geometry" is a brief movie directed by Denis Lawson, which was launched in 2002 and is based upon a short story by Ian McEwan. The movie is a mixture of mental thriller and secret, diving into styles of fixation, the supernatural, and the complicated nature of human relationships. It stars Ewan McGregor as the protagonist, Phil, and has because been acknowledged for its dark and enigmatic narrative design.

Plot Overview
The movie unfolds with Phil, a rich and gifted guy, whose life appears easily foreseeable. Phil's passion lies beyond the realm of his effective job and his relationship with his better half; he is deeply enamored with the history of his own family lineage, especially with a set of journals that belonged to his great-great uncle. These diaries hold a trick-- a mysterious and possibly sinister geometric theory, which the uncle was consumed by and might have eventually led to his doom.

Progressively, Phil becomes consumed with revealing the truth about this solid geometry theory, spending many hours studying the journals. The tedious narration of Phil checking out aloud from these journals reinforces a sense of impending trouble. His better half appears significantly secondary to his primary, obsessional pursuit, as Phil's fixation with the previous slowly takes precedence over reality.

Themes and Symbolism
"Solid Geometry" delves deeply into the symbolic nature of the eponymous mathematical idea, using it as a metaphor for the mysterious and possibly otherworldly aspects of life. The movie explores the stress between the mundane, daily presence and the allure of the unidentified - the challenging "solid geometry" that Phil seeks to comprehend mirrors the complicated aspects of his own mind and relationships.

As Phil reveals more about the theory, the plot thickens, and it ends up being clear that the geometric idea might bring supernatural homes. Relationships, particularly that with his other half, begin to fracture as the protagonist's grip on what is genuine and what is not begin to slip. The boundaries in between the clinical and the metaphysical blur, developing a palpable sense of spooky suspense.

Character Development and Performance
Ewan McGregor's portrayal of Phil captures the intense focus and steady unraveling of a guy consumed by an arcane pursuit. His efficiency is nuanced, painting Phil as both understanding and increasingly removed from the world around him. The supporting performances, though restricted due to the film's short runtime, efficiently serve to contrast Phil's internal journey.

Visual and Narrative Style
The film's visual design matches its narrative intricacy. Muted tones and a subdued combination create an atmosphere that is both claustrophobic and chilling. Close-up shots of Phil's face and eyes emphasize his internal conflict and fixation, while the often-disorienting electronic camera work echoes the movie's thematic entanglement of truth and dream.

Conclusion and Reception
"Solid Geometry" received attention for its haunting story and its star's compelling performance. The movie touches on the threats of fascination and the lengths to which one might go to satiate a pressing intellectual hunger. It leaves audiences reviewing the dangerous journey of seeking understanding that may be best left undiscovered.

Although "Solid Geometry" is a short film, it packs a dense narrative punch. The tight script and McGregor's portrayal keep viewers captivated up until the last, disturbing conclusion. It remains a provocative piece of movie theater, one that concerns the limitations of human understanding and the potentially damaging nature of our desires.

Top Cast

  • Ewan McGregor (small)
    Ewan McGregor
    Phil
  • Ruth Millar
    Maisie
  • Peter Capaldi (small)
    Peter Capaldi
    David Hunter
  • John Murtagh (small)
    John Murtagh
    Dr. Vosse
  • Jonathan Watson (small)
    Jonathan Watson
    Patrick Murray