Beautiful, true to the novel, well acted

Rating: 8/10 (1 November 2013)

This move retains much from the novel, in particular the sense of desperation that drives the participants, and in that desperation, desperate decisions, and living with the consequences.
Readers of the novel will have no trouble matching the characters and situations they know. Those new to the story will have no problem filling in several gaps that are not well covered, but they may be left with a few questions.
The move is beautiful, stark, and rich. The space scenes are easy to accept as seamless. Many difficult shots look effortless.
The acting, particularly Asa Butterfield as Ender, was affecting. Harrison Ford appears to take stone-faced to a new level initially, but as the movie reveals more the subtle grace of his performance becomes apparent.