Review of The Martian (2015) by Michael H — 02 Feb 2017

Further stabilizing the material, Goddard's script tacks on an epilogue clearly intended to polish off the novel's rough edges. As commercial entertainment, "The Martian" delivers on expectations of a "smart" blockbuster even as it adheres to the formula of a relatively simple feel-good drama. Though "Interstellar" aimed for more ambition, "The Martian" plays it safer: It's a brainy studio effort that sticks to familiar ground in more ways than one.

Even more noteworthy than its daring zero gravity finale is the movie's tone, which strikes a cheery contrast to Scott's usual ominous routine. In the last few years, the 77-year-old filmmaker has endured his own castaway story, stranded in a no-man's land of troubled projects. But like Watney, Scott is a keen survivalist, and "The Martian" proves he still has a few tricks left.