I Origins (2014)

Kernel Score: 86% · 3,409 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Science Fiction, Drama

Released: 2014-07-18

Runtime: 106 minutes

Is I Origins worth watching?

Worth watching. A scientist's study of the human eye leads to a startling discovery. It is quiet, thoughtful sci-fi that mixes romance and big questions, with lovely performances, though it asks you to accept a big leap near the end.

Watch it if you

  • like slow, thoughtful sci-fi
  • enjoy stories about science meeting belief
  • want a low-budget film with big ideas

Skip it if you

  • want action
  • dislike open spiritual questions

Best for: Thoughtful night in

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch I Origins

  • Rent: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube
  • Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

A molecular biologist's study of the human eye has far-reaching implications about humanity's scientific and spiritual beliefs.

I Origins parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that I Origins is an R-rated science fiction drama exploring reincarnation and spirituality through a scientist's research.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

Movies like I Origins

If you liked I Origins, these are the movies we'd watch next.

  • Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind (2004) — 90%: Romantic sci-fi about memory and love.
  • Mr. Nobody (2009) — 88%: Mind-bending film about choice and time.
  • Her (2013) — 94%: Quiet, thoughtful romance in a sci-fi world.
  • Blade Runner (1982) — 94%: Classic sci-fi about what makes us human.
  • Solaris (1972) — 89%: Slow, philosophical sci-fi about love and memory.
  • The Prestige (2006) — 95%: Clever mystery with a sci-fi twist.

Director

Mike Cahill

Cast

  • Michael Pitt as Ian Gray
  • Brit Marling as Karen
  • Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey as Sofi
  • Steven Yeun as Kenny
  • Archie Panjabi as Priya Varma
  • Cara Seymour as Dr. Jane Simmons
  • Venida Evans as Margaret Dairy
  • William Mapother as Darryl Mackenzie
  • Kashish as Salomina
  • Dorien Makhloghi as 7-Eleven Attendant

I Origins FAQ

Is I Origins worth watching?

Worth watching. A scientist's study of the human eye leads to a startling discovery. It is quiet, thoughtful sci-fi that mixes romance and big questions, with lovely performances, though it asks you to accept a big leap near the end.

Where can I watch I Origins?

In the US you can rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is I Origins OK for kids?

I Origins is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that I Origins is an R-rated science fiction drama exploring reincarnation and spirituality through a scientist's research.

What movies are like I Origins?

If you liked I Origins, try Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind, Mr. Nobody, Her and Blade Runner.