A Technical and Thematic Masterpiece

Rating: 9/10 (30 January 2014)

Gravity is a film that I never expected to be so effective at what it tries to achieve and convey. The film provides a simple concept, astronauts adrift in space that need to persevere and get home yet this simple concept is one of the strongest aspects of the movie as it conveys it's beautiful imagery, orchestral soundtrack and excellent acting.
It beautifully encompasses such themes as mortality, nature, helplessness, perseverance and rebirth. Imagery and dialogue convey these themes especially well in that we journey and sympathise with Dr. Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) throughout the movie as we witness one horrible event occurring after another, anything that can go wrong will go wrong.
Gravity is also an absolutely beautiful film and can stand tall with special effects cinema legends of the past. While not perfectly scientifically accurate, the film portrays the concept of space travel in a gorgeous, unknown but horrifying visage. The soundtrack is perfect for the movies style from the opening scene to the credits, orchestral and ambient themes perfectly capture the mood of each scene.
Gravity is named by many critics as one of the greatest science fiction films of all time and certainly one of the best this year. Tarantino names it as one of his favourites of 2013 while Cameron regards it as one of the best space films ever made.
If you go in with the expectation of a simple premise, expect a film that focuses on an individual level and exceptional CGI then you will thoroughly enjoy it. It doesn't aspire to be the next generation of film making but it does achieve far more than it intended.
Minor complaints are pacing and a few science plot holes that don't distract from the main movie but still prevalent when you identify them. Know that this film isn't for everyone but if you love Sci-fi, love CGI done properly and appreciate poignant themes then this film should not be missed.
9/10. One of the best Sci-Fi films of all time and one of the top of 2013.