Spaceman: A Sci-Fi Drama That Divides Audiences

Netflix’s new sci-fi drama, Spaceman, starring Adam Sandler, explores love and memory in an alternate 1980s setting. With the inclusion of a wise, ageless space spider, the film offers a unique and thought-provoking sci-fi experience.

Spaceman: A Sci-Fi Drama That Divides Audiences

Netflix’s new sci-fi drama, Spaceman, starring Adam Sandler, is likely to polarize its audience. While some may view it as a profound exploration of love and memory, others may dismiss it as a lackluster attempt at films like Solaris or Gravity. The inclusion of a wise, ageless space spider as one of the main characters adds to the eccentricity of this project, which is based on Jaroslav Kalfar’s 2017 novel.

( Credit to: Bookandfilmglobe )

A Divergent Tale: Exploring Love and Memory in an Alternate 1980s Setting

Set in an alternate 1980s, the story follows Jakub (played by Sandler), a Czech Republic astronaut on a solo mission investigating a purple particle cloud near Jupiter. As the movie begins, Jakub faces numerous challenges, from a malfunctioning space toilet to filming commercials for mission sponsors. Furthermore, his marriage to his pregnant wife Lenka (played by Carey Mulligan) is falling apart.

Despite the physical distance, Jakub and Lenka can communicate through a video link called CzechConnect, which offers better reception than a local phone call in 2024. However, their communication is minimal, and Lenka decides to leave her distant husband to give birth in a mansion alongside other single mothers. Isabella Rossellini and Lena Olin make appearances as characters attempting to provide support to Lenka, but their dialogue often delves into pseudoprofundities.

An Unexpected Visitor: A Wise Space Spider and Exploration of Memories

The narrative takes a bizarre turn when a giant spider appears on Jakub’s ship. Voiced by Paul Dano, the spider introduces itself as a fellow explorer and expresses a desire to study Jakub’s thoughts and emotions. Jakub, initially taken aback, eventually accepts the spider, whom mission control cannot see due to malfunctioning ship cameras or its possible imaginary nature. The spider, named Hanuš, becomes a psychotherapist-like figure for Jakub, helping him explore his memories and childhood trauma.

Resolution and Redemption: Healing Relationships and Finding Forgiveness

As the film progresses, it becomes evident that Jakub’s neglect and abandonment of Lenka contributed to their deteriorating relationship. Hanuš, the spider, passes judgment on Jakub, leading him to realize his mistakes. In a tearful realization, Jakub decides to change and rekindle his relationship with both Hanuš and Lenka. The movie concludes with a heartfelt moment between Jakub and the spider, acknowledging their friendship, and Jakub reaching out to Lenka, admitting his previous blindness to her presence.

Analysis: A Visually Stunning Film with Flawed Performances

Despite its visually stunning cinematography, the film’s fatal flaw lies in the difficulty of separating Adam Sandler’s on-screen persona from his character, Jakub. While Sandler delivers a committed and somber performance, his usual comedic energy feels wasted in this inert role. Carey Mulligan’s portrayal of Lenka is also somewhat trapped in a separate storyline on Earth, characterized by unconventional cinematography reminiscent of a horror film.

Conclusion: A Divisive Yet Thought-Provoking Sci-Fi Experience

Spaceman, Netflix’s sci-fi drama, offers a divisive viewing experience. Some may appreciate its poignant exploration of love and memory, while others may dismiss it as a feeble attempt at similar genre films. The inclusion of a wise, ageless space spider adds an eccentric element to the story. Despite its flaws, the film’s beautiful cinematography and sincere performances by Adam Sandler and Carey Mulligan make it worth a watch for those seeking a unique and thought-provoking sci-fi experience.