Knowing (2009) is a science fiction thriller directed by Alex Proyas and stars Nicolas Cage as John Koestler, an MIT astrophysics professor.
The film begins with a time capsule being unearthed at a Massachusetts elementary school, where a young girl named Lucinda Embry has filled her drawing with a series of ominous numbers. Fifty years later, John’s son Caleb discovers this paper, and John soon realizes that the numbers correspond to dates, death tolls, and geographical coordinates of major disasters over the past five decades, including events like the Oklahoma City bombing and the September 11 attacks. As he investigates further, he finds that three future disasters are also predicted, leading him on a desperate quest to prevent them.
Released on March 20, 2009, Knowing had a production budget of around $50 million and grossed approximately $186.5 million worldwide. The film received mixed reviews, with critics praising its visual style, atmosphere, and Cage's performance, while also pointing out its implausibilities and a controversial ending. The film's intense disaster sequences, particularly a dramatic airplane crash scene, were highlighted as standout moments, showcasing Proyas's ability to create tension and suspense.
Despite its mixed critical reception, Knowing has garnered a following over the years. Some viewers appreciate its darker take on the disaster genre, noting that it diverges from typical happy endings often found in such films. The film's exploration of themes like determinism versus free will and humanity's vulnerability in the face of cosmic forces resonated with audiences, prompting discussions about its deeper implications.
The film's home media release on July 7, 2009, saw it perform well in DVD and Blu-ray sales, further solidifying its status as a notable entry in the science fiction thriller genre. Overall, Knowing remains a thought-provoking film that combines elements of mystery and disaster, leaving viewers with lingering questions about fate and the nature of existence.