Film Review- "Gravity"

Gravity
Directed By Alfonso Cuaron
Starring Sandra Bullock as Dr Ryan Stone, George Clooney as Lieutenant Matt Kowalski 

This is probably going to be one of my shorter reviews, because it's hard to find flaws with a film like Gravity. I rarely declare films to be perfect. With the films I've reviewed in the past, I've always found at least something to improve on, even if it's something miniscule. At the moment, I can't find anything I didn't like about Gravity.

The films opens in space, with Dr. Ryan Stone (Bullock) on her first space mission aboard the shuttle Explorer, with astronaut Matt Kowalski (Clooney). Disaster strikes during a spacewalk, when the debris from a Russian missile strike strikes the Explorer. Losing communication with Mission Control, and emerging as the soul survivors of the crash, Stone and Kowalski must survive the vast emptiness of space and find a way to return to Earth.

Ninety nine percent of the film takes place in space, and it is beautiful to look at. The effects are stunning, and pull the viewer into the moment. Normally I don't recommend 3D if it isn't necessary, but Gravity needs to be seen in theaters, in 3D. Space has never been seen like this in film. Every moment you are on the edge of your seat. This is a real thriller. You almost feel lost in space with these characters, and relieved when the credits start to roll.

The story itself isn't that meaty. It's "The Hero Adrift" again. But putting it in this setting raises the steaks and makes the film all that more chilling. That said, the dialogue is well-crafted, as that is where our story emerges. Sandra Bullock has brought her A-Game again in this film, and is more than likely on her way to her second Oscar nomination, possibly win. This is her film, and her performance controls it in conjunction with the visual effects. George Clooney is George Clooney. He's a good actor, I've just never been a huge fan.

Gravity has been in theaters for awhile now, and with all the awards buzz it's been getting, I'm sure it will get a re-release before Oscar season. So, I strongly recommend that this film be seen in theaters and in 3D, or else you're only experiencing half of the film. A strong lead performance and breathtaking visuals, Gravity is just about what some may consider, a perfect film.