The Martian is a rare Science Fiction film that focuses on human connection above all else.

Rating: 9/10 (12 January 2016)

Most Science Fiction movies focus so much on the narrative and scientific elements that they tend to lose focus on the key ingredient; human connection. This however, is where the Martian thrives. Director Ridley Scott has put together a (mostly) feel good experience that has been missing from his most recent films. The character Mark Watney from Andy Weir's best selling novel has been brought to life in a thoroughly entertaining performance by Matt Damon. The film gives you a hero to root for throughout this tremendous ride hitting you with highs and lows until the final scene plays out.
The beginning of the film drops us into a Mars mission named Ares III where Watney and his crew are in the middle of a massive dust storm. During an effort to evacuate, Watney is hit with flying debris sending him airborne away from his crew. When his vital readings go offline, the crew assumes his death and are forced to evacuate without him. As the world mourns his death, Watney wakes on the red planet abandoned and alone. His only means of survival are his wits and the limited resources left behind. Luckily for him, the mission was cut short, leaving him a months supply of food. The only issue; He doesn't have a chance at rescue for 4 years. Once NASA becomes alerted of his survival, they and Watney are tasked with not only plotting a rescue mission, but figuring out how to keep him alive in the process.
Even though the film revolves around the audiences connection with Watney, the special effects and visuals still take center stage. Filmed in Jordan to simulate Mars, the setting is breathtaking. Vast red deserts covered in rocky sculptures give the illusion that Watney is somewhere other then our home planet. The seemingly absurd situation that our main character is in creates a lot of sarcastic humor that goes along way in balancing the mood. Watney is left with a laptop full of disco music as his only means of entertainment which creates a unique way to use the soundtrack of the film as a comedic outlet as well. Matt Damon gives a heroic performance in illustrating the emotional limits Watney has to endure. His dry humor is perfect in brightening the mood and his resolve in such a dire situation is impossible not to root for. The snappy dialogue, great performances and a few heart stopping action scenes highlight the Martian but what the film does best is touch on your emotions while pulling for the hero.