A troubled Darwin

Creation is more about the man than his controversial theory | Rebecca Cusey

Associated Press/Photo by Liam Daniel

Charles Darwin wrote arguably the second most influential book in history, On the Origin of Species, which laid out his theory of evolution. While his ideas continue to be debated, a new film, Creation, attempts to put flesh on an iconic figure by showing Darwin (Paul Bettany) as a father, husband, and man in crisis.

The film (rated PG-13) covers a slice of Darwin's life. He is a middle-aged man living in England, and his trip aboard the Beagle is behind him. With his wife Emma (Jennifer Connelly), he raises his children and attempts to work on his book.

Only problem? He has a major case of writer's block.

A gulf has widened between him and Emma. As he slowly loses faith, she remains devout. The death of their precious daughter Annie devastates both of them; they cannot find a way to comfort each other.