By Renee’ Collins
Rating: 5 (Out of 5 Reels)
I purposefully didn’t seek out any additional information about this film other than watching the trailer, because I wanted to go into it with an open mind. A medical engineer, Ryan Stone, and an astronaut, Matt Kowalski, work together to survive after an accident leaves them adrift in space (IMDB).
It is an understatement in this case, in my opinion, to say that Sandra Bullock and George Clooney are perfectly cast as the main characters in this film. I found myself being drawn into this human struggle for survival more and more as things progressed, because it is extremely well written, stunningly beautiful and superbly acted. We watch their struggle to survive and know instantly what is at stake, because Cuaron takes us step by step through the science behind his characters plight.
Alfonso & Jonas Cuaron paint a clear and vivid picture of the perils of being in space. I thought maybe this film was going to be all about the science “fiction” but nothing could be farther from the truth, because it is pure science. I found it compelling and refreshing, because it vividly depicts what could happen. It is completely plausible in the realm of today’s science which is astounding in a way, because we are mostly shown a fantasy of space. I think that is why I liked this film so much, because it is a real story told in a real way with fantastic actors.
The special effects in this film are in a word; spectacular. I found it difficult at times to enjoy the beauty of their view, because of the trauma they endured in the attempt to get back to Earth. This film is a serious science and one of the best films I have seen in a very long time. I would recommend to anyone. Because of the setting of this story, I believe viewers must see it on the big screen (IMAX big and in 3D) to appreciate where this film takes place because it only adds to its greatness.