Mankind's Victory

Rating: 7/10 (30 October 2018)

Man is a creature of the earth. He first found his wings in 1903, leaving the grounds shackles near Kitty Hawk. And only 63 years later, he left his home and set his feet on virgin soil. First Man details the 8 years leading up to Neil Armstrong's historic steps on the moon. The plot prefers the emotional aspects of Armstrong's life, centering on the crater left in his life after his daughter Karen died. Writer Josh Singer uses these poignant moments to peel back Armstrong who was generally stoic during his life. The greater majority of the film is shot without any tripod or stabilizing device, just as unsteady as NASA during the space race.
Some might say Ryan Gosling is statuesque in his portrayal of Armstrong. But history remembers a media unfriendly astronaut who maintained calmness under pressure, far from a dramatic character. To offset Goslings stillness, Claire Foy is a hurricane. She is the looking glass into Armstrong's soul, mirroring his torment in her words and action. First Man departs from the static progression of the eight years leading to Apollo 11's touchdown. The editing conveys the time exponentially. It speeds towards the finale and only pauses to let you savor mankind's accomplishment.
Be wary not to miss First Man's the theatrical run. The film's potent sound and visuals, pioneered by the same artists who championed Interstellar, are best enjoyed in theatre. A living room TV will not live up to the challenge.