When it's over, Gravity is beautiful, tragic, and frightening. It is a film about the lack of it (gravity) and the search for it. It is a metaphor that describes the emotional journey of its main character. This is not a film about space exploration, but the exploration of oneself. Medical engineer, Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and veteran astronaut, Matt Kowalski (George Clooney), must find a way to survive when an accident during a routine spacewalk leaves them floating in space, tethered to each other. With only a cast of two, the story is simple – survival - where the goal is to get back home to Earth. The task is threatened by a string of unforeseen dangers, which becomes the film's driving action and conflict. I thoroughly enjoyed Gravity from beginning to end. It is suspenseful and realistic, putting me right inside the action as it unfolds. I think Bullock carries the film wonderfully. She brings to Stone a certain vulnerability and courageous spirit, and much of that is shown through body language. Without words, she conveys fear, uncertainty, and realization. As she drifts in space, I feel I am floating with her, thanks to the powerful 3D visuals and expert direction from filmmaker Alonso Cuaron. The film is well paced, lending action in between moments of silence and calm, only to have the music score erupt as the elements of danger heighten. Stripped away are the guns (even space ones), the car chases, and supernatural forces, leaving behind a story about the will to live in an environment that relies on self-control, intelligence, and courage.
My rating: 4 out of 5
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