PHASE IV (1974)—strange cosmic event triggers a rapid evolution among Earth’s ants, transforming them into a collective intelligence with plans far beyond human comprehension. Isolated in the Arizona desert, two scientists attempt to study—and contain—the phenomenon, only to find themselves drawn into the insects’ mysterious and terrifying design. 

PI (1998)—mathematician Max Cohen believes that everything in nature can be understood through numbers. Obsessively searching for a mathematical pattern that could unlock the secrets of the universe—and the stock market—Max spirals into paranoia and madness. As rival groups close in on his discovery, his grip on reality begins to fracture. 

This week, Johnny Has the Keys dives deep into the intersection of intellect and insanity with Phase IV and Pi. Join us as we explore these visionary tales of human minds pushing too far into the unknown—from cosmic evolution to mathematical revelation. We’ll unpack their haunting imagery, minimalist storytelling, and the existential dread that binds them both. Tune in as reason gives way to revelation, and the search for truth becomes the ultimate descent into madness.

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