Disc Reviews

The Zero Theorem Review

16th Jul 2014

Gilliam is back, and on fine form with this latest plunge into insanity with The Zero Theorem.

Christoph Waltz has been literally shaved down for the lead role of Qohen; an obsessive compulsive worker who is looking for the purpose of our existence by solving the titular problem. There are of course issues along the way including his boss, a mystery girl, a young boy and his ever elusive boss management (Matt Damon).

True to Gilliam style, the characters are heightened way beyond reality – there is a lot of in your face acting, expressions and all brought to life with some of those most obscure lighting known to man.

To this end – this is Gilliam working at his best. Gilliam’s wonky angles and glorious set design are in full force here. You can see he has worked hard to make the practical, digital, and even matte painting effects work in harmony with each other. The blend of all three gives the film a certain visual charm that perhaps Gilliam could have done with a few extras coins for.

And yet he gets a terrific performance from his leading characters. David Thewlis appears as Quhen’s boss Joby and ramps his performance right up giving the film an even crazier energy.

It may be a mad cap existence for Qohen, but there is a tragedy at the heart of his purpose – endlessly stressing himself to new levels as he tries to figure out life, whilst not really taking much of a part in it.

This could be Gilliam’s craziest style of film since Brazil and should at least appeal to fans of that sensibility.