In the future Earth runs out of energy and a plant is set up on the moon to harvest an alternative energy source. Sam Bell (Rockwell) is sent on a three-year contract to run the plant.
With communications down his only link with Earth and his family is via video messages and he has no one to talk to except a computer, GERTY (voiced by Spacey). Then, just before he’s due to go home, Sam encounters his own clone.
The idea of a man going crazy somewhere in space with nothing to keep him company but a talkative computer is a staple set-up of sci-fi flicks. But the debut feature from Duncan Jones (David Bowie’s son) gives it a fresh, invigorating twist.
Avoiding the usual CGI overkill Jones uses innovative techniques to create an original look, while the plot constantly surprises, playing out as a psychological thriller that poses philosophical questions rather than the usual action fest.
Best of all is Rockwell’s stunning performance as he brings the interaction between two quite different versions of the same character to life. A highly entertaining, intelligent flick.
Sci-fi thriller. 2009. 97 min. With Sam Rockwell and Kevin Spacey.
Director: Duncan Jones. 13L.
Bonus: commentary, featurettes.
Rating: 4/5
Sci-fi thriller. 2009. 97 min. With Sam Rockwell and Kevin Spacey. Director: Duncan Jones. 13L.