REVIEW: INTERSTELLAR

This is one film I have been waiting for so long to watch. I am a big fan of the director Christopher Nolan. Ever since he burst into the Hollywood movie scene with Memento (2000), he has directed 6 more films to with rave reviews from critics and audiences. Nolan is notably famous for reviving DC Comics superhero character on film with Batman Begins (2005), The Dark Knight (2008) and The Dark Knight Rises (2012). He gained even more recognition with the mind-blowing Inception (2010), a movie which I feel is the last true original story to come out from Hollywood.

His next film is Interstellar. Directed by Nolan who also co-wrote the screenplay with his brother Jonathan Nolan. The film stars Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Michael Caine, Jessica Chastain, Mackenzie Foy, David Gyasi and John Lithgow. The film is co-distributed by Warner Bros. and Paramount Pictures.

How will Christopher Nolan’s latest film fare up with the rest? Do read on.

Matthew McConaughey in the male lead role of Cooper

SYNOPSIS:

In the not too distant future, planet Earth will be deemed almost inhabitable. Plantations are constantly ravaged by dust storms and humankind is reduced to being farmers. Former NASA test pilot named Cooper, who manages a corn plantation, is mysteriously called upon by his former employees to a secret NASA base. At this NASA base, he is thrust into piloting a spacecraft that would venture into outer space in search of possible new planets for humanity to continue its existence. Together with 3 other scientists, they venture into the far reaches of outer space. They soon discover unexpected challenges which test their limits human beings.

Anne Hathaway in the female lead role of Amelia Brand

SCRIPT: 

Original, adventurous, and magical. As with Nolan’s film Inception, he writes another script based on an original idea which is very rarely seen in Hollywood. The script has a solid structure with a good mix of science-fiction and drama. The premise of the story is a bit far-fetched but the story slowly makes us forget all the technical jargon as the script keeps us rooted in the drama. The plot holds many surprises and gets more interesting almost scene after scene. Despite a few minor plot holes, it is forgivable as the story focuses more on how the characters will overcome challenges. There are a lot of underlying themes about life throughout the movie which I feel was a positive addition. Good characterization for all characters.

Mackenzie Foy as Murphy, daughter of Cooper

ACTING:

The film has two Oscar winners, Matthew McConaughey and Anne Hathaway, in the leading roles. They did not disappoint. They both gave masterful performances worthy of awards and carried their characters well. However, they were outshone by strong supporting performances from Jessica Chastain and young Mackenzie Foy which should not be overlooked.

Searching for a new home

FILMING:

As with most science-fiction films, it is expected that visual effects plays a prominent role and in this film and it does. However, Nolan focuses more on the acting and the story rather than being dependent on the visual effects. The visual effects for the film are spectacular and do give the audience a scale on how large the universe is. The shots are creative and the editing is well organized. The cinematography is also a beautiful splendor to look at.

Christopher Nolan directing Matthew McConaughey on set. 

PACING:

A very good pacing despite a very slow start. The film builds up well in the middle with a good climax in the end. The film runs for about 2 hours and 45 minutes but it does not feel that long.

TONE (MOOD):

It is a race against time to ensure that the future of the human race lives on.

Beautiful cinematography

DOWNSIDE:

The long duration might turn off some people.

UPSIDE:

Lots of surprises and twists along the way. Good positive underlying themes about humanity in general.

The genius that is Christopher Nolan

OVERALL:

A must-watch and must not miss! Watch it in IMAX or halls with big screens. My vote for movie of the year.

RATING:

9.5 out of 10