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I enjoyed the novel when I read it, but the movie mostly improves on the source material by telling the story more efficiently even while simultaneously adding a touch of a hint of depth to Grace and Eva. It also omits most of the book's problematic aspects (i.e., using Eva as an ideological mouthpiece and turning her into the de facto totalitarian ruler of Earth).
On the performance side, Ryan Gossling is convincing enough and Sandra Hüller shines (or sings?) in the one moment when she's required to do a bit of heavy lifting as an actor. Rocky remains lovable; even in 2026, a good practical model still looks better than any CGI when it comes to characters.
Speaking of looks, As with most Hollywood sci-fi blockbusters these days, the movie looks great. Special shoutout to the visual spectacle of the collection mission on Adrian; in retrospect, that scene makes me I wish I'd seen the movie in 3D IMAX. I suspect the technology also enhances other moments, especially in the first half hour or 45 minutes as he gets his bearings on the ship and learns (or relearns?) its functions, and later in the film in any scene showing the Eridian spacecraft, and whenever we're in Earth ship's mini-Sphere room for reflective moments.
Incidentally, that particular addition to the story not only creates a smidgeon of Zen in the film, it helps explain the scenery at the end.
Final verdict: Recommended to anyone in the mood for a fun sci-fi movie.
Originally Posted by Mileron
