Ad Astra (2019) Movie Review

AD ASTRA (2019) MOVIE REVIEW

Since the inception of film, space travel has often been a popular subject matter to tackle thanks to the broad canvas provided by the universe. An empty void like space can make for some of the most creative and, ironically enough, the most jam-packed stories to be told in any media. Ad Astra looks to be included in the list of great space films like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Moon, however being in the same conversation as films like these isn’t as easy as rocket science. Astronaut Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) is tasked with completing a mission to find his long-lost father Clifford (Tommy Lee Jones) after learning that his father may be responsible for the impending extinction of the solar system. 

A seemingly simple story soon turns out to be much more as the overall plot is shrouded with mystery surrounding Roy’s father and if the rumours about his actions are true. Tommy Lee Jones does a good job in his limited role and conveys a sense of insanity but is overshadowed by our leading man Brad Pitt who is easily the film’s standout. Considering his character is the focal point of the film it’s easy to see how Pitt’s Roy is the most flushed out and best character in Ad Astra. Despite being the best character, his actions throughout the movie are non-sensical which results in multiple deaths and little to no comeuppance, ultimately damaging the plot. Space movies are often criticised for not being inherently realistic due to limitations brought about by the plot needing to move forward. Ad Astra handles this unavoidable problem as well as it can by keeping its focus near-perfectly balanced between the characters as well as the vast environs of space. 

Ad Astra translates to ‘to the stars’ in Latin which the movie more than achieves through its picturesque representation of the plain beyond our own. Awe-inspiring shots help make the scenery that much more stunning and could easily be in contention for numerous Academy Awards a couple of months down the track both for its visual and film making achievements. Ad Astra manages to be a thought-provoking film filled with dramatic tension and remarkable acting but unfortunately suffers due to the proverbial envelope not being pushed far enough. Director James Gray raises an abundant of questions which never seem to be fully answered by the movie’s culmination. Despite this, Brad Pitt’s latest endeavour proves to be an exciting and exhilarating space venture both fans of film and astronomy alike will remember fondly.

OVERALL

7 / 10