Marketing maven Kelly Jones wreaks havoc on launch director Cole Davis's already difficult task. When the White House deems the mission too important to fail, Jones is directed to stage a fake moon landing as back-up.
Directed by Greg Berlanti and written by Keenan Flynn, Rose Gilroy, and Bill Kirstein, Fly Me to the Moon is a cinematic exploration of the 1960s Space Race, entwined with conspiracy theories and a dash of romance. The film stars Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum, and Woody Harrelson, and centres around an attempt to sell and, if necessary, fake the moon landing. With a blend of historical drama and light-hearted comedy, the movie offers a unique take on a pivotal moment in history.
Set during the height of the 1960s Space Race, Fly Me to the Moon follows NASA's launch controller (Channing Tatum) as he navigates the complexities of launching Apollo 11. To garner public and government support, a savvy marketing specialist (Scarlett Johansson) is brought in. Her mission is twofold: to generate excitement for the launch and to stage a backup fake landing in case the mission fails. The tension between the pragmatic NASA controller and the charismatic marketing expert forms the crux of the narrative.
Scarlett Johansson shines in her role as the marketing specialist. Her portrayal of a 1960s con artist is both convincing and engaging, capturing the era's spirit with her charm and moxie. Johansson's character is resourceful and determined, making her a compelling counterpart to Tatum's more stoic and single-minded NASA director. Their dynamic, filled with playful antagonism, is one of the film's highlights.
Channing Tatum, however, appears less suited for his role. As a former pilot turned NASA launch controller, Tatum's performance is somewhat one-dimensional. His physical appearance and demeanour do not fully convey the gravitas and experience expected of a key figure in one of history's most significant scientific endeavours. While he brings a certain earnestness to the role, it often falls flat compared to Johansson's vibrant energy.
Woody Harrelson, playing a super-secret, all-seeing, all-hearing government agent, adds a quirky element to the film. His character, though somewhat outlandish, provides a touch of unpredictability and humour, contributing to the movie's light-hearted tone.
Fly Me to the Moon struggles to find a perfect balance between comedy and drama. While it has its humorous moments, it doesn't quite qualify as a full-fledged rom-com. The comedic elements are subtle and often overshadowed by the film's dramatic aspects. This tonal inconsistency might leave some viewers unsure of what to expect.
Despite this, the film succeeds in creating a tangible and almost believable narrative that intertwines historical events with conspiracy theories. The notion of faking the moon landing, while far-fetched, is presented in a way that feels plausible within the film's context. This blend of fact and fiction adds a layer of intrigue, keeping the audience engaged.
One of the standout aspects of Fly Me to the Moon is its depiction of the Apollo 11 launch. The build-up to the launch and the eventual liftoff is shot with a sense of awe and wonder that resonates deeply. The film effectively captures the monumental nature of the event, reminding viewers of the sheer magnitude of the accomplishment, even 55 years later. These scenes are visually stunning and emotionally impactful, providing some of the most memorable moments in the film.
While Fly Me to the Moon is an entertaining popcorn flick, it struggles to leave a lasting impression. The film's reliance on star power—particularly Johansson and Tatum—might draw viewers, but it also detracts from the potential emotional depth. One can't help but wonder if a cast of lesser-known actors might have allowed the story to resonate more profoundly.
Moreover, the film's predictability is a drawback. Aside from Harrelson's eccentric character, the plot follows a rather conventional route. The romantic tension between the leads is formulaic, and the resolution of their conflicts feels somewhat anticlimactic. The film flits along, providing light-hearted entertainment but failing to deliver any significant surprises or emotional highs.
Fly Me to the Moon offers a nostalgic and visually captivating look at the 1960s Space Race, infused with a mix of humour and drama. Scarlett Johansson's performance is a highlight, bringing life to the film's historical and conspiratorial elements. However, Channing Tatum's lacklustre portrayal and the film's overall predictability prevent it from being truly memorable. It remains an enjoyable watch, especially for those interested in the era or the conspiracy theories surrounding the moon landing, but it falls short of becoming a standout piece of cinema.
Fly Me To The Moon is in NZ cinemas from July 11, 2024