h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

I find it fitting that there is a mix of numerology and technology in this film. Max Cohen, a disaffected Jew trying to make meaning out of the world through his computer, is approached by a sect of conservative Jews to try and decipher the true name of God. The various subplots and machinations were surpurb as well as the incidents of migrain that Cohen undergoes.

Pi was one of the very best films to be released in 98 and the follow up offering "Requiem for a Dream" is also a great, albeit disturbing, film.

Fitting, also somewhat derivative. It brings to mind Arthur C. Clark's "The Nine Billion Names of God" from 1953, a hall of fame SF short story found here:

http://www.geocities.com/logical_inferences/namesofgod.html

The story starts:

"This is a slightly unusual request," said Dr. Wagner, with what he hoped was commendable restraint. "As far as I know, it’s the first time anyone’s been asked to supply a Tibetan monastery with an automatic sequence computer."

Of the many adjectives that could be applied to this film, I disagree with 'derivative'. I found it striking and highly original - I don't think I've ever seen a film like it.

OK, I'll withdraw the "derivative" comment - I haven't even seen the film. I was referring only to the reported plot element regarding numerology and apparent use of computers regarding the name of God ... or something. Not really trying to be critical, some "derivative" works are great ... probably should have just said it reminded me of the earlier work.