Perpetual Motion (film)

Perpetual Motion is a 1983 Canadian drama film directed by Michel Brault. The film stars Michael Riley as Robert Elliott, a young physicist obsessed with the theoretical possibility of creating a perpetual motion machine.

The narrative follows Robert as he becomes increasingly consumed by his research, neglecting his personal life and relationships. His unwavering focus and dedication to his impossible pursuit strain his connection with his girlfriend, played by Louise Marleau, and lead to social isolation. The film explores themes of scientific obsession, the nature of creativity and genius, the cost of ambition, and the clash between scientific ideals and human relationships.

Perpetual Motion is known for its introspective character study and its exploration of the psychology of a driven individual. Brault's direction emphasizes the emotional and intellectual turmoil within Robert as he grapples with the frustrations and limitations of his work. The film is less about the actual scientific concept and more about its metaphorical representation of a person's endless and potentially self-destructive striving.

While not widely known outside of Canada, Perpetual Motion received critical acclaim for its performances and its thoughtful examination of its central themes.