Definitely worth the hype

Rating: 8/10 (13 October 2018)

The reality that the space program, as well as the men who went to space, were eternally "on edge" is very clearly presented in this film. For a film abouace travel and the quest for the moon, its surprisingly intimate. The film focuses on the Armstrong family, the small and isolated group of astronauts living and working together, and the closeness within the spacecrafts that took these flights. The highlights include the moon landing, which happens as fuel is being burned, and the Gemini 8 flight, which almost ended in disaster. Some say that Gosling as Armstrong comes across as too restrained. I disagree. At times, a subtle humor is shown. His pain at the deaths of his daughter and his colleagues is obvious. His almost total focus on his mission also comes across as selfish-to the point of rudeness toward friends and disengagement with his wife. Claire Foy is worthy, again, of award consideration for a pitch perfect portrayal of a strong minded partner. Jason Clarke also stands out. In short, this is an outstanding tribute to an era when commitment, sacrifice, intelligence, optimism and daring do characterized one of America and mandkind's greatest achievements.