Inter-'not so'-stellar but still watchable

Rating: 7/10 (25 January 2015)

Though I am a 'Christopher Nolan' fan, this movie has had a sobering effect on me. While some of his earlier films were amazing (to say the least), this film, though partly original in its storyline, isn't up to his usual standards. However, I would still rate it above some of the other films I have seen this past year, which makes it decent enough to watch once and hence the 'high' rating.
The film is primarily about the future of the human race in a post-apocalyptic world where the survivors struggle for the basic necessities required for life with the recurring poem "Do not go gently into that good night" by Dylan Thomas aptly describing this struggle for survival throughout the film. Governments soon realize that human life on earth is no longer tenable and that they need to relocate to some other planet if they are to survive. Within this larger context, is a poignant story of a father who has to leave his daughter and set out into the unknown to ensure the continuance of the human race, much like the explorers of old who crossed vast oceans to discover new lands.
The science behind the film is depicted and explained as best as can be expected with Hans Zimmer's church organ themed music setting up the tempo for some brilliant cinematographic sequences. Musical scores like 'No time for Caution' were one of the highlights of this film. Acting wise, the film showcases power performances from Matthew McConaughey, Micheal Caine and Jessica Chastain though Anne Hathaway's performance couldn't live up to her billing. Screenplay was mostly good, with the robot 'TARS' providing sufficient comic relief to the serious themed movie.
The film falters towards the end as it drags on and on becoming more and more gooey and mushy in an effort to have a happy ending. This is also where the film diverges from what is scientifically probable and enters the realm of fantasy which was disappointing. Probably, a more realistic end to the movie would have fetched it a higher score.
However, upon reflection the film does pose some interesting questions. For example, are today's aliens future highly evolved versions of ourselves? And if I risk it a bit more, are these extra-dimensional beings our God(s) in the present? Who knows.