An excellent piece of contemporary Sci-fi

Rating: 10/10 (28 March 2010)

Good science-fiction is hard to come by these days, but 2009 blessed us with what I view as two contemporary classics in "Moon" and "District 9." Science-fiction, much like the Western, is past its heyday and usually struggles to find connection in a society with an ever-growing dependence on technology for survival. "Moon" succeeds by being a modest, almost chamber-drama about the isolating and alienating effect technology can have on our lives. It conjures up a wonderful vision of loneliness and the longing for human contact. Sam Rockwell gives the performance of a lifetime, conjuring up anger, confusion, sadness, and humor in this multifaceted role.
I appreciate that the director, Duncan Jones, didn't try to make too big of a movie. He treats this small and delicate picture with the care and nuance necessary to leave an impression, at least on me.
Highlights from this film include excellent set design and application of miniatures with CGI being avoided almost entirely. I can't say that I miss it. The craftsmanship and attention to detail remind me of "2001" and "2010" in their dedication to quality. The soundtrack is superb as well with sad piano pieces and more modern industrial-sounding melodies.
This movie is not for the science-fiction fan who wants explosions, gunfire, space battles, or any sort of action. It's a slow-burn of a drama, with questions about what the difference between a human and an individual is. Don't pass up a chance to spend a quiet evening with this film.