Writer/director Stephen Portland‘s endearing indie film Universal follows in the footsteps of other sci-fi films in posing big questions and making viewers think. In this case, a trio works on a series of formulas and algorithms pertaining to DNA. What should have been a relaxing weekend getaway turns into the pursuit of the meaning of life itself.

Portland’s film stars Joe Thomas as Leo and Rosa Robson as Naomi. They’re British academics and lovers living in America. Naomi is an anthropologist, while Leo is a scientist who has yet to obtain tenure. He’s tired of speaking to half-empty lecture halls and generally in a professional rut. To take a break from their work, they rent a remote cabin for the weekend. Naomi says over and over again that Leo needs to check his phone less and instead, focus on their relationship and being present in the moment. It’s not bad advice.

However, Ricky (Kelley Mack), who’s been in contact with Leo about his work, disrupts the romantic weekend. More specifically, she drives 16 hours from California to show Leo, in person, what she’s been working on, based on his research. Ricky contacted someone at Leo’s university and found out where he was for the weekend, to the dismay of Naomi. In fact, Ricky just won’t leave, and suddenly, for the three of them, the research becomes an all-consuming project. Day fades to night, and before they know it, it’s time to pack up and go home.

Universal is low-key film, but so much about it works well. Mack is generally funny as the socially awkward Ricky, who constantly munches on toast and won’t give the couple any alone time. Meanwhile, Noami and Leo’s work frustrations and different career paths are very relatable. Though Leo doesn’t have tenure, he at least landed a full-time academic gig. Naomi, at one point, confesses to Ricky over dinner that she just writes and publishes. All of these characters are extremely well-dawn, and Portland reveals more about them as the film progresses.

This is a very dialogue-heavy movie, not only in terms of character revelations, but also as a means to pose thought-provoking questions. The trio discusses everything from the influence of big business on the political system to whether or not other life exists. They do this while obsessing over formulas and DNA coding, but also while taking a hit and drinking a few beers. Though the film is philosophical at times, Portland includes some light-hearted moments, especially regarding the character dynamics.

Universal is a well-crafted sci-fi film that ponders the meaning of human existence and what the consequences may be if such a puzzle was ever solved. Yet, amid all of the heavier philosophical moments, the film contains its share of laughs. Overall, this is a well-crafted and heartening indie feature.