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The Zero Theorem (2013)

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A hugely talented but socially isolated computer operator is tasked by Management to prove the Zero Theorem: that the universe ends as nothing, rendering life meaningless. But meaning is what he already craves.

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(screenplay), (additional dialogue)
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2,103 ( 243)
1 win & 6 nominations. See more awards »

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Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
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Ray Cooper ...
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Doctor
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Doctor
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Doctor
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Bob
Margarita Doyle ...
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Slim Clone
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Storyline

A hugely talented but socially isolated computer operator is tasked by Management to prove the Zero Theorem: that the universe ends as nothing, rendering life meaningless. But meaning is what he already craves.

Plot Summary | Plot Synopsis

Taglines:

Nothing is everything.

Genres:

Drama | Fantasy | Sci-Fi

Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)

Rated R for language and some sexuality/nudity | See all certifications »

Parents Guide:

 »
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Details

Official Sites:

| |  »

Country:

| | |

Language:

Release Date:

19 August 2014 (USA)  »

Also Known As:

O Teorema Zero  »

Filming Locations:

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Box Office

Opening Weekend:

$83,803 (USA) (19 September 2014)

Gross:

$219,438 (USA) (3 October 2014)
 »

Company Credits

Show detailed on  »

Technical Specs

Runtime:

Sound Mix:

Color:

| (surveillance footage)

Aspect Ratio:

1.78 : 1
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Did You Know?

Trivia

The name "Qohen Leth" references "Qoheleth" (sometimes transliterated as "Qohelethin" or "Koheleth"), the original Hebrew name (and presumed author) of Ecclesiastes--the Bible book that investigates the meaning of life. See more »

Goofs

When Qohen is sitting at his computer naked, he is wearing flesh colored underwear. See more »

Quotes

Dr. Shrink-Rom: I'm sorry to interrupt, but I couldn't help but notice this young lady's pathological attempt to project upon you her daddy issues of abandonment...
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Crazy Credits

In memory of the great Richard D. Zanuck who kept the ball rolling. See more »

Connections

References The Matrix (1999) See more »

Soundtracks

Chapel of Love
(uncredited)
By Jeff Barry, Ellie Greenwich and Phil Spector
Performed by Mélanie Thierry
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User Reviews

 
"Zero must equal 100%."
28 July 2014 | by See all my reviews

Terry Gilliam is back with one of his better films in recent years. It's also one of his more philosophical films, as it grapples with many deep questions, including the meaning of life itself. Gilliam calls "The Zero Theorem" the third instalment in his dystopian satire trilogy, which began with "Brazil" in 1985 and was followed by "Twelve Monkeys" in 1995.

"The Zero Theorem" follows the story of Qohen Leth, a number-crunching programmer at a large corporation called Mancom. While struggling with life in general, Qohen is given the job of solving the zero theorem, a mysterious mathematical equation that continually eludes his grasp. The task is complicated by some new personal relationships when he meets Bainsley, a tempting Internet stripper, and Bob, the 15 year old, genius son of the CEO of Mancom. Have they entered his life to help Qohen, or are they merely unnecessary distractions from his work? Qohen is often unsure about the answer to that question.

The world of the film resembles that of Gilliam's previous two dystopian satires, but this is its own film and it deals with some new themes and conflicts. I'd say the themes and questions are even deeper here, because Gilliam is struggling with the meaning of life itself. Anyway, it all works and leads to an intriguing and visually engaging story. "The Zero Theorem" gets a big thumbs up from me. You should definitely check out this one, especially if you're a fan of Gilliam's earlier work.


41 of 53 people found this review helpful.  Was this review helpful to you?

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Don,t waste your time Waynecampbell1
saw it today.... this isn't going to be a happy read guys. barrettbedlam
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Is Zero Theorem thejim223
could anyone else relate with qohen's thinking ? schrilax
The church of batman IamkingKyle
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