An under-the-radar period drama is mesmerising audiences across the globe, with viewers labelling it a ‘captivating delight to watch’. The biographical drama has left movie-lovers ‘surprised’ at just how exceptional the picture is – and the film is now streaming on Netflix.

Written and directed by Matthew Brown, The Man Who Knew Infinity arrived in cinemas in April 2016 and was adapted from novelist Robert Kanigel’s 1991 book of the same name.

The historical period drama biopic examines the remarkable life of trailblazing Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, who rose from poverty to secure admission to Cambridge University during World War I, thanks to his extraordinary intellect. It was at Cambridge that the mathematician encountered his mentor and fellow collaborator GH Hardy, with the pair forging a bond worthy of celebration., reports the Express.

Based on true events from Ramanujan’s life, the movie stars Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire) in the titular role of Srinivasa Ramanujan. Patel is joined by Jeremy Irons who portrays GH Hardy. Devika Bhise, Toby Jones, Stephen Fry, Jeremy Northam, Kevin McNally, Enzo Cilenti, Arundhati Nag, and Dhritiman Chatterjee complete an impressive supporting ensemble.

The ‘powerful’ period drama is streaming on Netflix(Image: IFC Films)

Speaking to Esquire about taking up the role, Patel shared: “I read the script and there was sort of a light bulb moment where my mind went to that scene in Good Will Hunting—that scene where Robin Williams is at the bar talking about “this amazing Indian genius” who changed the mathematical world. I thought, “Oh my God, this is the same guy.” That was my introduction to it.

“To get a character like this is a real treat for any young actor, irrespective of race or cast. The opportunity to do a biopic of someone who is so legendary and iconic and spread his story to the world, that really appealed to me, and I thought it would be a great challenge and a transition to show my versatility in my other outings in India.”

The film has garnered acclaim from all quarters, as one critic called it: “A deeply intelligent film that doesn’t shy away from its intelligence.”

While another reviewer wrote: “The period detailing – be it a rustic locale or sophisticated surroundings – is quite superb. Brown also tries to give the story an emotional touch, to good effect. And in fact, it is this which makes this film both enjoyable and gripping.”

A third critic said of the period drama: “Its craft is evident, its sincerity is admirable, and it’s the kind of movie about which you can say, ‘There’s not a hair out of place,’ and mean it.”

The ‘rare’ biopic takes a closer look at the life of Indian mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan(Image: IFC Films)

Viewers have been equally enthralled, with one audience member writing on Rotten Tomatoes: “A great story and very good cast. A truly remarkable tale of true events about an incredible character with an unbelievable mind – great film.”

Another fan of the period drama said: “What a story, what a movie. History, pathos, and adventure of the mind plus redemption, all wrapped up into one. The acting was superlative across the board. And the message at the end in script, was just icing on the cake. I give this a 10 of 10. A must see.”

One viewer posted on IMDB: “Compelling and heartbreaking film. The true story of an Indian maths genius who gets to Cambridge University just prior to WW1. On the face of it a film about a mathematician seems a dull subject for a film and to many it probably is. However this film is so well done it doesn’t really matter what the subject is about. This is a superb and heartbreaking drama that is much more enjoyable than you think it will be. Highly recommended.”

Meanwhile, an IMDB user review of the historical biopic reads: “Beautiful and captivating. I loved this film – especially loved learning about a man about whom I knew nothing – Srinivasa Ramanujan. It was beautifully filmed, and acted, and I enjoyed every moment. There are gorgeous scenes of India and Cambridge, a fascinating story line and of course the fabulous Jeremy Irons and Dev Patel.

“Whether you know Ramanujan or not, it’s captivating and a delight to watch. It touches the heart without syrupy sentimentality. Quite a few of us saw it and it prompted much discussion over dinner – always the sign of a great film in my experience.”

The Man Who Knew Infinity is currently available to stream on Netflix.