Ad Astra (2019), directed by James Gray, is a visually striking sci-fi drama that delves into themes of isolation, existentialism, and humanity’s search for purpose in the vastness of space. The film follows astronaut Roy McBride (Brad Pitt) on a mission to the far reaches of the solar system to find his missing father, Clifford McBride (Tommy Lee Jones), whose dangerous deep-space experiment threatens Earth’s future.
Ad Astra - Release Date, Trailer, Songs, Cast
Movie: | Ad Astra |
Genre: | Science Fiction, Drama, Adventure |
Language: | English |
Director: | James Gray |
Main Cast: | Brad Pitt, Tommy Lee Jones, Ruth Negga, Donald Sutherland, Liv Tyler |
Release Date: | September 20, 2019 (USA) |
Banner: | 20th Century Fox, New Regency Productions |
Music: | Max Richter (composer) |
Budget: | $80–100 million |
Runtime: | 124 minutes (2 hours 4 minutes) |
The narrative emphasizes Roy’s emotional journey as much as his physical quest, exploring his internal battles with abandonment, fatherhood, and the psychological toll of isolation. Brad Pitt delivers a nuanced and introspective performance, blending stoic determination with moments of vulnerability. The film’s philosophical reflections are enhanced by Max Richter’s haunting score, adding emotional weight to the film’s measured, deliberate pace.
Visually, Ad Astra is breathtaking, with Hoyte van Hoytema’s cinematography capturing both the majesty and emptiness of space. The film features gripping action sequences, such as the lunar chase and the scenes near Neptune, but at its heart, the story remains a deep, personal exploration.
While some viewers might find the pacing slow or the story too introspective, Ad Astra offers a profound meditation on humanity’s need for connection in an uncaring universe. It’s an ambitious, emotionally resonant sci-fi film that invites reflection.
Ad Astra Review
Ad Astra (2019), directed by James Gray, is a visually captivating and deeply introspective sci-fi film that delves into themes of isolation, father-son dynamics, and humanity’s search for purpose. Brad Pitt delivers a restrained yet impactful performance as astronaut Roy McBride, who embarks on a journey to the outer reaches of the solar system in search of his long-lost father (played by Tommy Lee Jones). His mission also seeks to uncover the truth behind enigmatic cosmic disturbances endangering Earth. The film stands out for its stunning visuals, deliberate pacing, and existential reflections, though its slow, contemplative approach to space exploration may feel more philosophical than action-driven for some viewers.
Ad Astra Trailer
Ad Astra Screenshot
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