Discription
LIMITLESS (2011)
Summary:
Limitless is a high-concept sci-fi thriller about Eddie Morra, a struggling writer who discovers a mysterious nootropic drug called NZT-48. This revolutionary pill unlocks 100% of his brain's potential, granting him superhuman cognitive abilities, perfect recall, and the capacity to learn anything instantly.
As Eddie rapidly ascends from obscurity to a world of financial and social success, he attracts the attention of powerful figures, including ruthless financier Carl Van Loon. However, his newfound brilliance comes with dangerous side effects, including blackouts and withdrawal, and puts him in the crosshairs of menacing individuals desperate to get their hands on the drug.
Keywords: Limitless, 2011, Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro, Sci-Fi Thriller, Action, Nootropic, Drug, Success, Consequences.
Plot:
Eddie Morra is a down-on-his-luck writer living in New York City, struggling with writer's block and a recent breakup with his girlfriend, Lindy. His life takes an unexpected turn when he reconnects with his former brother-in-law, Vernon Gant, who introduces him to NZT-48, a clear, small pill that dramatically enhances mental function. Upon taking the drug, Eddie experiences an immediate and profound boost in intelligence, focus, and memory, allowing him to finish his book in a single night and quickly master complex concepts.
After Vernon is murdered, Eddie discovers a hidden stash of NZT, which he begins to use regularly. He leverages his enhanced abilities to quickly learn about finance, leading to incredible success in the stock market. His rapid rise attracts the attention of powerful business magnate Carl Van Loon, who offers Eddie a position in a major merger deal. However, Eddie soon discovers that NZT has severe side effects, including blackouts and debilitating withdrawal symptoms, and that there are others, including a dangerous Russian gangster named Gennady, who are desperate to acquire the drug.
As Eddie's life spirals between extraordinary success and perilous threats, he attempts to understand and control the drug's effects. He works to reverse-engineer NZT and mitigate its negative impacts, all while fending off enemies who believe he possesses a vast supply. In the film's climax, Eddie, now seemingly in control of his use of NZT or having perfected a modified version, navigates a dangerous confrontation with Gennady. Ultimately, Eddie uses his sustained mental prowess to become a successful politician, running for the U.S. Senate and hinting at a future presidential run, having seemingly transcended the drug's initial limitations and dangers.
Cast (Lead Roles):
- Bradley Cooper as Eddie Morra
- Robert De Niro as Carl Van Loon
- Abbie Cornish as Lindy
- Anna Friel as Melissa Morra
Crew:
- Director: Neil Burger
- Screenplay: Leslie Dixon
- Producers: Leslie Dixon, Ryan Kavanaugh, Scott Kroopf
- Music by: Paul Leonard-Morgan
- Cinematography: Jo Willems
- Editor: Naomi Geraghty
Release Info:
- Original Release Date: March 18, 2011
- Language: English
- Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller, Action
- Running Time: 105 minutes
- Accolades: Nominated for various awards, including the Saturn Award for Best Science Fiction Film.