GRAVITY

GRAVITY SYNOPSIS- when their space station is damaged, two astronauts must struggle to return to earth. From the first shot of space we get the sense of the majesty and breath-taking visuals that are going to mark this film. Watching Dr Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Lieutenant Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) floating through the vast expanse of space, the sense of helpless drifting is immediate. Director Alfonso Cuaron has taken a story - which a hundred years ago would have taken place on the high seas - and fits it seamlessly into the science fiction medium. Cuaron is aided greatly by both his actors giving it their all despite being in restrictive suits that rarely allow them much movement. Bullock and Clooney use their vocal and facial assets to give life to their characters and emotionally involve the audience. Their third co –star could almost said to be the earth itself, the views are so breath-taking that it can sometimes be hard to tear yourself away from them and focus on the human cast. CGI can produce wonderous images but its true place here is placing the actors in the environment and then letting the audience drink in the beauty of the ensuing images If all of these sounds like I’m waxing only positive that’s only because I’m genuinely struggling to think of any negatives. Some of the religious imagery and themes can feel a bit forced but this is only down to one’s personal preference. Some might find Clooney’s character a little too quirky, especially in some of the life or death scenarios he’s placed in. I have to admit that I’m nit-picking this is a film that will be talked about for a long time to come and if the academy awards don’t take notice then Oscar should come down from his plinth and put that sword to good use. FINAL VERDICT 10/10 No film is perfect but I’ve run out of numbers in measuring this films qualities. PS The worst mistake you can make with this movie is “wait till it’s out on DVD”