The Astronaut — The Astronaut( VOD/ DVD)

The film opens with a bang. Crisp, clear visuals and a gripping score throw you straight into the action! Sam Walker is being hauled from the sea after her first mission back from space, rescued from a punctured capsule in a sequence that immediately grabs you. She's whisked off to a secure house to recover, and that's when things start getting weird. The tone initially swings between sinister and chirpy, and you're constantly questioning what's real and playing out in Sam's head. Strange things keep happening, and the film does a fantastic job of keeping you second-guessing everything.

 

There's not a dull moment. The pace never lets up, and the score keeps you perched on the edge of your seat. The cinematography packs a punch, with loads of red lighting that screams danger. I jumped multiple times watching this with the subwoofer cranked up. Trust me, this film demands surround sound, played loud when the neighbours are out (I truly believe this makes the difference between a good or bad experience). The effects are brilliant, the tension has you demolishing your popcorn, and the acting? Spot on across the board. Kate Mara carries this film, giving it everything, while Fishburne brings that commanding presence he's known for. Nothing about it feels cheap or half-arsed.

 

Here's the thing, though, it does feel familiar. Even down to the sound effects, I could tell a certain sci-fi film was its inspiration. As sci-fi goes, I don't think fans will be disappointed, but I'm not a die-hard genre enthusiast. That said, the twist at the end. I did not see that coming. There are subtle clues peppered throughout, but you'd have to be seriously clever to piece it together before it lands. One character had me suspicious the whole time (I won't spoil who), and my gut was bang on.

 

Look, I enjoyed this film. It takes you somewhere completely unexpected, and that ending had me crying and smiling all at once. If this had been made in the '80s, it would be an absolute classic we'd still be rewatching for nostalgia today. The end strongly reminds me of another beloved 80s film, but telling you which would ruin the magic, you'll have to figure it out yourself.

 

One jarring bit. Some oddly placed funk and soul music that really doesn't match the tone of the film. Was this a red herring designed to put you off?

 

Overall, this is a cracking film with solid performances, stunning visuals, and an emotional wallop that catches you off guard. Varley's got real talent, and I'm genuinely excited to see what she does next.