I Origins (2014)

I Origins (2014) is a sci-fi romantic drama directed and written by Mike Cahill. The indie film premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival on January 18th. Ph.D. candidate, Ian Gray, studies the evolution of the eye with his research partner, Kenny, and lab assistant, Karen. At a Halloween party, Ian meets Sofi, a masked girl with striking hazel-speckled eyes. She leads him to a bathroom for an impromptu hook-up before disappearing. Strange coincidences, like the recurring number 11, lead Ian to a billboard where he recognizes Sofi’s eyes. Eventually they cross paths again on a train and begin a passionate relationship despite their contrasting beliefs – Ian’s scientific skepticism versus Sofi’s whimsical spirituality. In a heartfelt moment, Ian confesses his undying love for her, explaining how their atoms were once united before the Big Bang and have always been drawn to each other.

One day, they spontaneously agree to get married. However, due to a delay in obtaining their marriage license, they walk out of the registry office disappointed. Ian receives a call from Karen regarding a blind worm (Eisenia fetida) that carries the necessary DNA for eye development. Overjoyed, Ian brings Sofi with him to the lab. As Karen leaves, Sofi becomes upset with their research and accuses Ian of ‘playing God’. Unfortunately, Ian accidentally splashes formaldehyde into his eyes and asks Sofi to call Karen for first aid. While on their way home, the elevator they are in gets stuck between floors. In order to free themselves, Ian removes his eye bandages but Sofi is frightened and hesitant.