Not JUST an escape movie set in space.

Rating: 8/10 (1 September 2015)

I've seen this 3 times. Each time I got something new out of it.
The first viewing I thought it was an OK movie which depended on the 3D special effects to get it some viewings. And the 3D stuff WAS amazing. In fact visually it was truly beautiful.
On further viewings I got to appreciate that both of the cast of two (!) were excellent at commanding engagement and attention for the full duration of the film.
Deeper reflection afterwards had me thinking of several layers that this movie reached for me. The fragility of the human animal, and yet the drive to survive bringing forth an inner strength that is hidden when not under stress. The isolation (and freedom) of space; the need for our species to work with others to achieve success in the human existence; co-operation at various levels between nations, by remote support teams, the questioning and futility of national differences on this tiny blue planet.
Who ya gonna call when it all goes pear shaped?
All deep stuff.
The role of The Hero and his leadership. It's the good guys who always die first. And in this case he sacrifices himself for the possible safety of Bullock without even a second thought. (Discuss! :) )
Then there is the welcoming safety of Mother Earth. When Bullock eventually lands the colour saturation of sea and land is intense, the life giving light from the sun now contrasting with the empty deadlines of space. Is the message here "value our planet, there is nothing else"?
The setting of space gives a macro view of our puny human existence, and puts it into it's true fragile context, despite egos on earth which claim to the contrary.
A movie that makes you think. And that's rare enough these days.