Saw it in theaters three times, just to make sure it was actually this good.

Rating: 9/10 (18 December 2013)

Let me start by saying that I did not have an interest in seeing this film prior to having a discussion with my coworker about how I don't go to the movies as often anymore because the tickets are so incredibly expensive. Said coworker talked me in to spending the $11.50 for an evening student ticket by telling me that the movie was, "made for my eyes." Admittedly the original reason for going was more so the intrigue of gaining insight as to what type of film my coworker thought suited me so well. The first five minutes were a little slow for me. I groaned inwardly at the opening scene predicting that the movie was going to rely solely on stunning visual effects, and come out lacking in significant content. Starting minute six I was genuinely amazed. It's true the movie does contain some splendid digital effects portraying earth as a luminescent orb, hovering nearby with a somewhat omniscient presence; however, I can assure the movie does not rely on this alone.
This review does not contain spoilers, so I will merely state that as a film deserves every bit of hype it's getting from critics and fans alike. Sandra Bullock gives a stunning performance, I found it to be raw and charged with the exact type of nerve required for the role. The movie is full of symbolism (for any fellow lit geeks out there), and touches on some really important struggles we all face on an individual level, such as letting go of the past and not allowing it to hold us back. It has a satisfying ending, I think it can be stated confidently that the ending is in fact perfect for the scenario.
All of this being said, I would like to address some criticism I have read on the film. First of all, the movie does have quite a long run time. It could be a bit shorter, but this small fact in no way holds it back from being a great film (and more importantly a great story). Secondly, there are events that transpire that break the laws of physics like a baseball bat to an old car window. One of the most important skills we can have as viewers is to learn that suspending our disbelief will ultimately lead to our ability to appreciate a good story and film for what it truly is. Realistically, a good majority of films released these days have elements that could no way happen in real life. If you get hung up on things like that you won't every be able to enjoy a good movie. The movie deserves the nominations it has received, and I think deserves to win them as well.
Thank you for reading, I strongly recommend going to see it!