Stowaway 2022 Movie Review

Title: Stranded in Space: A Poignant Journey – A Review of “Stowaway”

“Stowaway” takes us on an unforgettable and emotionally charged journey through the vastness of space. Directed by Joe Penna, this thought-provoking science fiction thriller introduces us to a gripping tale that leaves an indelible mark on our hearts.

The plot centers around the Mars-bound crew aboard a spacecraft. What starts as a routine mission quickly spirals into chaos when they discover an unexpected stowaway (Shamier Anderson) accidentally trapped aboard their vessel. The crew, led by Commander Marina Barnett (Toni Collette), Michael Adams (Daniel Dae Kim), and Zoe Levenson (Anna Kendrick), must confront extraordinarily difficult decisions that challenge their humanity and test the limits of their mission.

One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its exceptional cast whose performances are nothing short of brilliant. Each actor skillfully brings depth to their characters, breathing life into them with palpable emotions. Toni Collette portrays Commander Barnett with unwavering determination yet showcases vulnerability beneath her strong exterior, making her character both formidable and relatable.

With minimalistic set design and claustrophobic shots, Penna creates a sense of confinement that amplifies the tension and anxiety experienced by both characters and viewers alike. The cinematography vividly captures the vast emptiness of space juxtaposed against the limited confines of the spacecraft, reinforcing our protagonists’ isolation and vulnerability.

Adamant about authenticity, “Stowaway” astounds with its meticulous attention to scientific accuracy while exploring profound moral dilemmas faced by those stranded in space. It delves into ethical questions surrounding sacrifice and duty versus personal lives – themes that reverberate long after leaving the theater.

Contributing to its emotional impact is Volker Bertelmann’s hauntingly beautiful score which heightens every crucial moment throughout the film. His composition enhances scenes with delicate precision, further immersing the audience in the characters’ gripping plight.

While the movie’s pacing remains consistent for the majority of its runtime, there are occasions where certain sequences could have been tightened to maintain tension. However, this minor criticism does not overshadow the poignant narrative that unfolds before our eyes.

“Stowaway” flourishes with its seamless blend of awe-inspiring special effects and realistic production design. The attention given to intricate details helps create a visually striking experience that transports us into space alongside our protagonists. Moments of weightlessness are flawlessly executed, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their predicament.

The editing throughout “Stowaway” effectively maintains a pulse-pounding tempo, building suspense and emphasizing critical moments. The film’s dialog is efficient and genuine – it allows us to explore both scientific complexities and emotional connections between characters without losing any sense of believability.

What truly resonates about “Stowaway” is its ability to explore complex human emotions within an extraordinary setting. It delves deep into themes of sacrifice, compassion, and existential despair while leaving room for introspection long after it concludes.

In conclusion, “Stowaway” is a captivating space thriller filled with stellar performances, thought-provoking storytelling, breathtaking visuals, and impeccable attention to detail. This unforgettable cinematic experience will undoubtedly leave you pondering humanity’s strength in even the most dire circumstances.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Stowaway | Official Trailer | Netflix official trailer