After its March 10th release in 2000 this
sci-fi drama did slighter better than break-even
under the direction of acclaimed filmmaker
Brian De Palma.
When the first manned mission to Mars encounters
a mysterious disaster, a rescue team is sent
to investigate.
Our cast of courageous astronauts is led by
Gary Sinise, in what feels a lot like a sequel
to his role in "Apollo 13".
He's a soft-spoken optimist with a thirst
for knowledge, and a perfect choice to star
in the PG-rated movie.
Recalling a quote from his late wife, he explains
his purpose in life, "To stand on a new world
and look beyond it to the next one."
Alongside him is Tim Robbins, Don Cheadle,
Connie Nielsen, and Jerry O'Connell.
This is a talented group of friendly astronauts
who clearly care for one another, which makes
the untimely departure of one of them resonate
more effectively.
De Palma is well-known for his long takes
that wind through a scene, and a 90-second
shot showing off the massive spacecraft set
is really something.
It kicks off one of my favorite scenes in
the movie, when Robbins and Nielsen share
a fun and romantic zero-G dance to Van Halen's
"Dance The Night Away".
There's something so cute and memorable about
the moment, that whenever I hear that rock
classic, I think of this movie.
But it's an EVA rescue attempt that is positively
pulse-pounding in its simplicity and well-framed
execution.
The 113-minute film is paced well, and stays
believable with realistic science and techniques.
The above-average visual effects don't hurt
either.
The unique turn this picture takes in the
final act will either alienate audiences or
captivate them.
"Mission To Mars" is a particularly divisive
movie for this reason, but, I for one, appreciate
the ideas this picture explores, having re-watched
it several times over the years.
Composer Ennio Morricone mixes strings, trumpets
and even a choir for a beautiful score.
Blending smart science-fiction and action
with more philosophical themes about mankind's
place in the universe, this is a vastly under-appreciated
picture.
"Mission To Mars" is a poignant and exciting
journey into the unknown.
I thought it was GREAT.
