In Ridley Scott’s latest adaptational film, The Martian, you get a taste of what it would be like to be isolated on a foreign planet. When fellow astronauts blast off back to earth, they accidentally leave behind presumably dead Mark Watney, a pretty stellar botanist. Watney, who is lacking in supplies to survive, has to use his intelligence and a whole lot of luck to make it through alive. Back home, the NASA crew work together to get him back on earth before it is too late.
The film opens on the beautiful, red-soiled mars and we are introduced to a team of astronauts who are collecting samples for research purposes back on earth. It is until a storm hits that causes everyone to get back on the ship, except Watney who is struck by large debris at a whopping speed—this is where his shipmates were certain he was dead. They couldn’t go back to save him as it would be too late and would unfortunately risk all of their lives.
As everyone may have suspected, he does return home, but what the whole film revolves around is his trials and tribulations to get there, and that is exactly why this unknown plot was beautifully executed as it left the viewers wanting to unravel more and become a part of his journey. Seeing the character development and the suffering he had to go through, it almost felt as if you were there with him. The film builds up tension and suspense right from that first scene.
The Martian’s main focus is Matt Damon, and his acting was absolutely flawless. I, myself am not a fan of movies who revolve around one person, but considering how it satisfyingly balanced both comedy and seriousness, it quickly changed my views. Even though this film’s star was Mark Watney, they made a great job in the developing of other characters—and really quickly, too. You get to meet and enjoy seeing the faces and personalities of most if not all NASA crew members. The bond that they all share and how well they acted together made it evident that there was chemistry both on and off the screen, which is always a good thing.
One of the things that blew my mind were the graphics; as a lover of all things astronomy, I loved seeing how alluring the universe seemed and made me think to myself, “wow, this is what it looks like.” As for the composition of the film itself, the lighting, editing, and score was impeccable. I continue replaying some of the most stunning scenes in my head which will hopefully have you captivated as well.
Ultimately, it fulfilled every aspect you would expect in an Oscar award-winning film. I wouldn’t be surprised if it was nominated! The Martian is rated PG-13 for some strong language, graphic injuries, and brief nudity but I think it is a-okay for ages 10 and up. I rate this film four out of five stars.
Rating: 4/5
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