Spaceman: A Disappointing Journey into Loneliness

Spaceman, directed by Johan Renck, fails to live up to its potential despite an intriguing premise. The film’s lackluster protagonist and disconnected narrative overshadow its strong performances, leaving viewers disappointed.

Spaceman: A Disappointing Journey into Loneliness

In the world of film, there are certain phrases that are unexpected to utter as a critic. One such phrase is ‘Adam Sandler takes himself far too seriously.’ However, in the case of the film Spaceman, this statement holds true. Directed by Johan Renck, this Netflix release fails to live up to its potential despite its intriguing premise.

( Credit to: Slugmag )

Spaceman takes us on a research mission to the outer reaches of the solar system, where Jakub Procházka, a Czechoslovakian cosmonaut portrayed by Adam Sandler, finds himself nearing the objective of his mission. However, he is hit with the realization that his marriage back on Earth may be falling apart. As Jakub tries to reach out to his wife Lenka, played by Carey Mulligan, he is met with silence. In the midst of his despair, Jakub encounters a talking space spider named Hanuš, voiced by Paul Dano. Together, they embark on an existential journey, delving into Jakub’s psyche and examining his life experiences in search of the reasons behind his loneliness.

Bleak Atmosphere

Director Johan Renck, known for his work on Chernobyl, sets the mood effectively in Spaceman. From the opening scene, the film establishes a sense of bleak, claustrophobic melancholy, utilizing long takes and minimalist lighting. The prospect of accompanying an intriguing character on a lonely journey into the unknown seems promising for fans of cerebral science fiction.

Lackluster Protagonist

Unfortunately, the main issue with Spaceman lies in its protagonist, Jakub. Instead of being interesting or complex, he comes across as self-absorbed and self-pitying. His motivation for the space mission appears to be more about redeeming his family name rather than genuine interest in exploration. This lack of care from Jakub makes it difficult for the audience to invest in his character and story.

Disconnected Narrative

As Hanuš uses his abilities to delve into Jakub’s memories and thoughts, the audience is left feeling shut out. The film attempts to convey insights on human nature but falls short due to its on-the-nose and condescending approach. Depressing underscoring, muted colors, and watery filters try to create an artistic atmosphere but ultimately feel forced and pretentious.

Strong Performances

Despite its flaws, Spaceman benefits from a strong performance by Adam Sandler. He fully commits to the character’s despair, reminding viewers of his talent when playing more serious roles. Carey Mulligan also delivers a sympathetic portrayal of Lenka, although her character lacks the appeal needed to fully engage the audience. The true standout is Hanuš, voiced by Paul Dano, who manages to make the character work despite its inherent silliness.

A Missed Opportunity

Spaceman shares the weaknesses of its protagonist, focusing more on proving itself as a serious art-house film rather than connecting with its audience. The film fails to offer anything new or engaging, relying on the performances and short run time to keep viewers interested. Ultimately, it becomes a forgettable footnote in the careers of its major players and a puzzling disappointment.

Conclusion

Spaceman falls short of its potential, weighed down by a lackluster protagonist and a disconnected narrative. While Adam Sandler delivers a strong performance, it is not enough to salvage the film. Director Johan Renck’s attempt to create a serious-minded art-house movie overshadows the need for an engaging story. Spaceman may hold some interest for fans of the actors involved, but it ultimately fails to leave a lasting impression.