1/2
USA 2016
Opening January 5, 2017
Directed by: Morten Tyldum
Writing credits: Jon Spaihts
Principal actors: Jennifer Lawrence, Chris Pratt, Michael Sheen, Andy Garcia, Laurence Fishburne
The earth, “overcrowded, and overrated”, might be civilization’s hub, but new world colonies are opening up for the adventuresome. Aboard the flagship Starship Avalon, a crew with 5,000 passengers is on its way to the extrasolar Hemisphere II, and a bright new future. When James’ (Pratt) sleep chamber opens, his excited anticipation spirals to despair as he realizes it was premature. Until a friendly android (Sheen) offers, “take a break from what you can’t control, and make the best of where you are.” The humongous spacecraft has lots to see, and experience, but still… A second pod opens none too soon; Aurora (Lawrence) reestablishes a sense of companionship that Jim craves. Contrarily, Gus’s (Fishburne) appearance demands attention, collaboration, and finally boldness.
Thoughtfully editing Jon Spaihts’ story—humor is spaced appropriately throughout—Maryann Brandon creates three distinctive components, which director Morten Tyldum convincingly fills. Kicking off with Pratt’s admirable solus performance, the others follow suit with balanced, fulfilling portrayals. Gene Serdena’s set decoration corresponds to Guy Hendrix Dyas’ production design, which Rodrigo Prieto’s cinematography accentuates. Thomas Newman’s music hits the highs, and lows of the action as we hurtle through space. Join other commuters for an entertaining, off the beaten track voyage. 111 minutes ()