Review of Moon (2009) by Rainer K — 10 Jun 2012

Calm and slowly-paced, in a clinical atmosphere in space Moon reminded me of Solaris and, of course, 2001: A Space Odyssey. It's more comparable to the first one though, although robot companion GERTY has HAL-like qualities (and Kevin Spacey's terrific voice work is superb.

Sam Rockwell, playing the two lead roles does an amazing job as Sam. His performance is award-worthy and I can't think of too many actors better suited for the role (although I could imagine Michael Fassbender in this role).

Moon is a science-fiction film as I like them. It uses its setting not only for cheap effects and bombastic explosions but for discussing themes and asking questions which have no place in reality. Subjects like identity or personality are dealt with in a very specific and effective manner - they're not really new to the genre but Duncan Jones surehanded direction makes it a worthy experience.

I also loved the effects - accomplished with a minimum of CGI help but mostly with models - I have no idea why these almost antique techniques still make better effects than modern computer imagery but I'm not an expert on this matter. In my opinion though, it's always worth pointing out if films with limited budgets visually exceed blockbusters.

Even though the film's pretty much the antithesis to a feelgood movie, the ending is somewhat satisfying (happy would be an overstatement) and doesn't quite fit the rest of the film's tone.

Nonetheless, a successful debut by director Duncan Jones (who since outdone himself with his follow-up Source Code) giving the sci-fi genre a much needed wake-up call.