AD ASTRA (INTO THE STARS)

Strangely hypnotic, director and writer James Gray (mediocre, “The Immigrant”, exceptional “The Lost City of Z”) entrusts viewers a realistic glimpse into the future: shuttles to the moon and Mars, emotional sensors, translating one’s psychological health, fashionable space gear; acceptance of the premise, guarantees scintillating distraction. Brad Pitt, is subtlety inspirational as “Major Roy McBride”, a wounded, isolated soul, sent to the planet Neptune in search of his genius, lionized father, “Colonel Clifford McBride” (Tommy Lee Jones), presumed dead for almost thirty years, until a cosmic surge proves otherwise; his quest challenges his scarred, childhood relationship with his father, a mission as complicated as his spatial pursuit. Roy’s silent, potent strength never wavers; poll vaulting through celestial forces, the major sheds, along with Neptune’s moons, his lifetime disillusionments; terrain, internal and external are positively synchronized, a cardinal coup in the success of “Ad Astra”.

Dramatically gorgeous, success lies in its humane universality; the heart transcends man’s stunning exploration and conquering of the unknown; the future holds many surprises, while man’s emotional, spiritual compass remains steadfast.

FOUR STARS!!!!

Peneflix