The Martian - Review

"I'm the first person to be alone on an entire planet" – A review of The Martian. 

I love sci fi, but I'm very picky with it. I either love it or it leaves me absolutely cold; I want a gripping story, lots of heart, a dash of humour and something a little different to keep me interested. Enter The Martian.

Based on a best-selling novel, directed by the legendary Ridley Scott and released in 2015, The Martian takes the classic "stranded on a desert island" theme and shoots it onto Mars, bringing a fresh, interplanetary twist. Mark Watney (Matt Damon) is a botanist and astronaut who has been left behind on Mars after a dangerous storm has forced the rest of his crew to evacuate. Unable to make contact with Earth and with very few supplies, he must rely on his scientific intelligence and wit to survive against impossible odds. Whilst waiting for a team of scientists to find a way to bring him home Watney must do everything himself, from growing food to fixing life support systems, and as the plot grows as does the tension. Would he ever make it home, or would Mars claim his life?

At the heart of the film are themes of resilience, human ingenuity and the drive to overcome impossible odds. Science and collaboration crosses borders, the power of hope being a driving theme throughout, and it strikes the right balance to be uplifting without being cheesy.

Matt Damon is brilliant as Mark Watney. Witty and heartfelt, his performance is nothing short of remarkable as his hope, optimism and humour shines through even his darkest moments. You can't help but get invested in his story; he's a genuinely likeable character, as well as being very relatable. The supporting cast, including Jessica Chastain and Chiwetel Ejiofor, add the spirit of determination and teamwork to the story, driving the plot forwards and grounding the film, ensuring the emotional stakes are high throughout.

Visually, The Martian is absolutely stunning. The sweeping shots of the Martian landscape are both beautiful and isolating, bringing a sense of scale and danger to the planet, and overall, the cinematography by Dariusz Wolski makes you feel the desolation, but also the hope in Watney's struggle. The soundtrack, composed by Harry Gregson-Williams, does a brilliant job of heightening tension and emotion, with clever use of disco tracks to lighten the mood and echo Watney's irrepressible spirit.

I really enjoyed this film. It's smart, entertaining and often surprisingly funny, perfect for anyone who enjoys a good survival story. If you want a brilliant sci fi adventure – or you just fancy seeing Matt Damon have a chat with some potatoes – this film is for you.

Written by Tam Page

Posted by Mr. Tomney

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