This review may contain spoilers. I can handle the truth.
i initially watched this for the combo of oscar buzz cinematography + willem dafoe in a creepy setting, but stayed for the unexpected depth it offers on difficult societal topics.
the plot itself fell a little flat for me—though the ending did give it a lift, it still felt a bit structurally anticlimactic. that being said, where this film really had me was in its profound commentary without sacrificing its cinematic delivery. (the cinematography is truly great.) the entirety of…
brilliant, refreshing modern take on the classic murder mystery. deserved every bit of its’ academy nomination for writing: the attention to detail is immersive, the casting is excellent, & the clever plays on the intentional cliches of the genre turns it into something memorable. i typically rate a movie higher based on its’ ability to change how i view the world, & while this movie doesn’t embody life lessons so to speak, it is one of the few movies that i’m impressed by its’ ability to keep me glued for its entirety. a definite yearly rewatch.
houston we have a problem!!! (& it’s that the movie was strangely more intriguing on land than when they actually went to space.) regardless, the effects were very impressive for 1995, & especially what went into filming zero gravity and overall handling of the space environment was pretty groundbreaking for its time. the story itself is solid, a captivating blend of human resilience & intricacies of space exploration. the tension of the narrative begins to lose momentum at what should be it’s peak, which slightly diluted the urgency, but nevertheless the true story’s impact & scientific accuracy make it an intriguing watch.
powerfully brutal critique & reflection on the contradictions of modern life. condemns the emptiness of the American middle class’ misdirected validations & perceptions of beauty while offering moments of transcendence. hauntingly well-executed coexistence of irony & satire.
