Arguably one of the most hyped movie releases of the fall season, “Interstellar” landed second in the box
office this weekend following the release of “Big Hero 6.” Directed by Christopher Nolan, this movie is the dark, edgy version of “Gravity” audiences wish existed last Oscar season. The star-studded cast, including Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Michael Caine and Jessica Chastain, deliver a powerful performance transcending space and time.
The film is set in the near future, though the dates are never specified. A second Dust Bowl is ravaging the Earth and entire species of crops are dying out while millions of people are starving. On this Earth, life is about survival rather than excess. Cooper (McConaughey) is unusually recruited by NASA to lead a team of explorers into deep space to determine whether there is life on other planets. “Interstellar” chronicles their journey, the amount of time lost in space, and the heartbreaking struggle to do what is right for humanity rather than for one’s family. Additionally, the film is a commentary about what may happen to Earth if humankind does not take care of it.
The acting in “Interstellar” is superb. Though audiences see more of a typical McConaughey character, Hathaway and Chastain bring more than enough emotion to their roles to make up for it. The plot line is complex, but the leading trio humanizes the scientific struggle. Because of the plot complexity, however, it is easy to get lost in the technical jargon and become confused. “Interstellar” is a film audiences have to pay attention to. With a run time of 169 minutes that may be hard for some moviegoers to do.
Overall, Nolan does a decent job explaining complex space theories at a level the audience can understand. He weaves emotion into cold, deep space leaving a significant impact on viewers. “Interstellar” seems to have it all: intense science fiction, cool space explosions, complex themes, a blockbuster score and an emotional storyline about love and loss. Those with weak bladders beware; you will not want to leave your seat.
“Interstellar” is rated PG-13 for some intense perilous action and brief strong language.
