‘Century’

Writer-director Stephen Poliakoff suggests in provocative fashion that while some bright hopes of the 20th century were already dimming on the eve of 1900, unexpected challenges and possibilities were also opening up. A medical student of blazing promise, Paul Reisner (Clive Owen) lands at a London research institute and becomes the assistant to the institute’s formidable chief, Prof. Mandry (Charles Dance). Paul’s career is seemingly assured until he asks his mentor to reconsider the merits of a fellow student’s revolutionary theory in neurology research. Mandry regards this an act of impertinence, triggering truly shocking consequences. This unusual 1994 British film also possesses the larger perspective of Paul discovering his true path in life. Miranda Richardson (pictured) also stars (TMC Thursday at 11:10 a.m.).