#3.14: π

1998
Directed by Darren Aronofsky
Psychological Thriller, Surrealism

π is the debut feature film by New Yorker Darren Aronofsky, who went on to make such classics as Requiem for a Dream, The Wrestler and Black Swan. Aronofsky made this film on a super low budget, helped by friends and family who invested in his ideas. The film is shot in ultra high contrast black and white, and Aronofsky didn't even have any filming permits, having to shoot scenes on the sly. π Isn't exacly a pleasant film to look at, with lots of noise and grain in the picture, but if you are a fan of super low budget films like Clerks then you will know what you are in for. Although the film looks like a college film project, Aronofsky still manages to add an interesting visual style throughout, composing some eerie shots. The film establishes a great technological look full of computer screens, and even the small moments, like the way protagonist Max Cohen locks his door, are stylishly edited. There is an incredible scene in a New York subway that has a very eerie tone, almost jumping into pure Horror territory, reminding me of Jacob's Ladder, that has ambitious visuals considering the films restrictions.

π is one of the most unique films I have ever seen. The premise is about a mathematical genius who suffers from severe headaches and anxiety, being driven mad by mathematical formulas in his head. The film captures a superb paranoid edge throughout. Max Cohen is never quite sure whether the people he meets are his friends or his enemies, and remains isolated and cautious. Thus, the viewer shares his paranoia and the film makes you feel on edge. Aronofsky achieves this further with the use of surreal sequences where you aren't quite sure whether they are for real or just nightmares in the protagonists head. The film is edited so that the chronology of the story jumps quite rapidly from scene to scene, giving you a feeling of nausea and unease. It is difficult to tell whether the whole film takes place in one day, one week, one month or even a year. Another great aspect of π is the use of IDM/Electronic music in the soundtrack, along with Clint Mansell's eerie Dark Ambient score. The use of music by Aphex Twin, Autechre, The Orbital and Massive Attack perfectly suits the feel of the film, enhancing the mathematical and technological feel.

π is a fast paced film that manages to be gripping without having any major conflicts between characters. Any conflict seen in the film comes more from within Max Cohen's head than with anyone else. Not only is this one of the most leftfield and unique premises to any film I have seen, but the idea of viewing a film through the eyes of a character who is completely broken down mentally is something that makes it such a bold experience. This makes Max Cohen not an antagonist, but an anti-protagonist if you catch my drift! Considering I am a person who really struggles when it comes to numbers and mathematics, I found this film completely enthralling and would definitely watch it again one day! 8/10.