First Man (2018)

Rating: 7/10 (20 October 2018)

I didn't actually plan to see this film, but I did. This film for me kicks of the incredibly exciting awards season with technological fashion even if the story isn't as compelling as reviewed.
Ryan Gosling is a solid lead but I do believe there will be better lead actor performances this year. I often wonder after seeing many Gosling performances where his real personality ends as he comes across as many of his characters. Often looking confused and a bit bland. He gives a decent performance but in my opinion nothing special.
Claire Foy on the other hand is the backbone of the picture. She gives an honest and convincing performance as Neil's wife, Janet juggling the domestic life whilst her husband is away wondering whether he will ever return.
There is a terrifically secure supporting cast with Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Corey Stoll, Patrick Fugit, Lukas Haas and Ciaran Hinds giving typically strong performances although one wishes Stoll was used more effectively giving his important role.
Disappointingly Justin Hurwitz's score is a massive let down. I didn't care for it one bit and found it bland and conventional.
The cinematography was very effective. In a both positive and negative fashion. On one hand, the 60s tone is very well set whilst the colour hue, documentary realism and composition lead to a well shot picture. On the other hand the shaky cam for me was way to much and I am a massive fan of realistic up close, handheld camera compositions. This film had way to much, yes I know it was to create the realistic depiction and showcase the hectic chaos of the shuttle which would then be contrasted by the smooth framing of the moon itself but it was just too much for me.
Technically this is a incredibly crisp and well constructed film. Sound is used so effectively whilst production and costume design is incredibly authentic.
The silence when in use was used very well and was very effective compared to the at times chaotic audio.
The moon landing was stunning and a massive highlight but in my opinion I believe the film should've ended on the moon instead head back to earth clumsily.
Overall the film was decent and taught me a bit more about the Armstrong enigma along with the mission to the moon. A decent flick but one that perhaps has been over hyped with tales of Oscar worthy performances and blistering narrative structure. Definitely see the film if you are a Gosling, Foy and Armstrong fan or even if you're just a fan of space and the moon landing. A solid decent motion picture, nothing more, nothing less.