Well, my previously mentioned idea of picking several genres and then watching 30 films from each by the end of the year is underway. The fact that Moon was expiring on the ole’ Netflix ‘Watch Instantly’ feature made an easy decision as to what the first genre and film would be.
This was my second time watching this one (which was true for my viewing partner, Brian, as well).
Let me tell you folks, I love this movie. Sam Rockwell just acts my fucking socks off. Rockwell’s perfect portrayal of the same man at the beginning and end of three years alone in space is stunning. This is made even more impressive by the fact that often he isn’t acting with anyone else, playing alone or opposite the Hal-like robot, voiced by Kevin Spacey (who gave a fantastic performance as well).
This movie is proof enough that the Academy ignores far too many deserving films each year. Not only was Rockwell ignored, but a wonderful directorial debut by Duncan Jones, and a brilliant script. Meanwhile, The Blind Side was nominated for Best Picture that year.
In Moon, Duncan Jones and company got everything right. It’s one of those select films where I wouldn’t change a single thing if given the chance. The script, the score, the direction, the acting. Everything is so well crafted.
The film is in rarified air in its attention to small details, especially in terms of the development of the story and the character(s). The nuance is so pitch-perfect that it takes scenes which, in most films, would be throw-away scenes, and transforms them into profound moments in the film.
This movie is perfect. It’s easily 80% of the reason I’m excited for Duncan Jones’ upcoming film Source Code (Michelle Monaghan makes up the other 20%).
Oh yeah, and can anyone tell me how the hell they filmed the ping pong scene?
Brian
Yes. This movie is amazing. Sam Rockwell is fantastic, especially, since as Scott pointed out, he acts by himself the entire movie. It has that claustrophobic space feel to it, and is so sparse that you feel alone with Sam.
And Scotty already pointed out the brilliance of the script and score … my God, the score! it is so good …
how this movie gets snubbed and “The Blindside” gets nominations and wins, is beyond me as well.
i have more to say, but i must go to work now!
Brian
It really is perfect, isn’t it? In addition to your question about the ping pong scene, I have a question … what happens to sam when he gets back? How long does he survive? Does he go crazy?
I don’t want to ruin anything, but there’s a point in the movie where something is revealed about sam, and not only does it gut him, but the more I think about it and put myself in his place, it completely guts me. I wouldn’t know how to go on …
This movie is awesome. Deeply affecting, and awesome. Just superb on every level.