As audiences absorb more and more movies, filmmakers are often inclined to stuff as much as possible in their films. This is perfectly evident in the science fiction genre, as most movies try to outdo their predecessors in every way possible, Yet what results are often films afflicted with unnecessarily convoluted plot lines and CGI overkill. Every once in a while a film like District 9 pops up that takes aim at these high ambitions and manages to buck the trend. And sometimes, a film simply rejects these expectations and instead focuses on delivering a simple, yet incredibly rewarding experience, like Moon.
The film stars Sam Rockwell as Sam Bell, a lone worker responsible for mining material on the moon that provides energy on earth. Sam’s three year contract is almost up and he’s eager to get back home to his wife and young daughter. I won’t disclose any more about the plot because it’s best to enter the film with fresh eyes. Not to say that the story features crazy twists or secrets, but I believe every film to be experienced best when little is known beforehand.
Moon marks Duncan Jones' feature length directorial debut, yet the young filmmaker never shows any signs of being green. Every shot appears orchestrated with precise consideration, and the film's pace is deliberate but never boring. Considering the film’s setting and tone, there obvious influence from sci-fi classics such as Alien and 2001. Yet these homages do not hurt the film, and Jones remains capable of forming his own style.
In addition, Clint Mansell's score perfectly supplements Jones' vision. The composer's past showier pieces have become overused in film trailers, yet like his other scores, Mansell proves that he is a master at crafting subtle yet powerful music that always enhances and never hinders.
Yet even beyond the film's skillful direction, Moon is the perfect vehicle for Sam Rockwell's often under appreciated abilities. As Sam Bell, the actor gets the opportunity to show off his wide emotional and physical range. Being essentially the film’s only character for it’s 97 minute runtime seems daunting, but Rockwell’s performance grounds the film in reality and empathy, effectively selling the audience Sam Bell’s story. Despite a track record of wonderful supporting performances, Rockwell's career hasn't afforded him the luxury of many leading roles. His performance in Moon makes one wonder why this has so long been the case.
I approached Moon without much knowledge (not even a glimpse of the trailer) except that it was a low-budget sci-fi film with Sam Rockwell directed by David Bowie’s son. In hindsight, I’m glad I went in with so little because it enabled me to experience the film with minimal preconceived ideas. Today’s internet-fueled world allows movie geeks to learn almost everything about a film before it opens. Long gone is the mystery of filmmaking, instead replaced with a constant need of instant gratification. Perhaps because of the low-key nature of Moon, the film snuck up and completely enthralled me. I became entranced by the microcosm created by Duncan Jones and his team and even more captivated by Sam Rockwell’s protagonist. Once the credits began to roll, I sat in silence, overjoyed at the awesomeness that I had just witnessed.
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