‘Spaceman’ and the Trappings of Sci-Fi Space Movies

Adam Sandler’s latest Netflix venture, ‘Spaceman,’ finds itself adrift in the vast expanse of sci-fi space movies, struggling to reach the celestial heights it aspires to. As we delve into the film’s shortcomings, we’re reminded of a recurring pattern in the genre’s history.

In ‘Spaceman,’ Sandler portrays Jakub, a Czech cosmonaut grappling with solitude aboard a spaceship, accompanied only by an alien arachnid named Hanus. The film attempts to tap into profound themes of loneliness and disconnection, reminiscent of iconic space dramas like ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ and ‘Solaris.’ Yet, despite its star-studded cast and director Johan Renck’s pedigree, ‘Spaceman’ fails to ignite the imagination. As New York Times critic Alissa Wilkinson aptly puts it, the film falls short of being engaging, landing squarely in the realm of dullness.

So, what are the common pitfalls that ensnare big-budget sci-fi space epics like ‘Spaceman’? Let’s explore three recurring themes:

1. Deep Space, Deep Thoughts: Outer space serves as fertile ground for exploring existential questions and probing the depths of human consciousness. Films like ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’ set the bar high in this regard, delving into the mysteries of existence with breathtaking visuals and philosophical depth. However, for every success story like ‘Interstellar’ or ‘Contact,’ there are misfires like ‘Spaceman’ that struggle to find their footing. Despite noble aspirations, these films often falter due to uninspired dialogue and a lack of narrative cohesion.
2. Computer-Generated Missteps: The allure of cutting-edge CGI technology can be tempting for filmmakers looking to create immersive worlds and fantastical creatures. However, excessive reliance on CGI can lead to disconnects with audiences, undermining the suspension of disbelief. In ‘Spaceman,’ while the spacecraft appears realistic, the alien character Hanus feels artificial and unconvincing. Contrast this with classics like ‘Alien,’ where practical effects and puppetry brought iconic creatures to life with tangible authenticity.
3. Romance, We Have a Problem: Love stories set against the backdrop of space exploration are a staple of the genre, offering opportunities for emotional depth and introspection. When executed with nuance, these narratives can resonate deeply with audiences. However, when mishandled, they can veer into cliché or sentimentality. Films like ‘Passengers’ have faced criticism for contrived romantic plotlines that detract from the overall experience, failing to capture the genuine intimacy of human relationships.

In essence, ‘Spaceman’ serves as a cautionary tale for filmmakers venturing into the cosmos of sci-fi storytelling. While the genre holds boundless potential for exploration and discovery, success ultimately hinges on a delicate balance of narrative ambition, technical craftsmanship, and emotional resonance. As history has shown us, the stars may be infinite, but great space movies are a rare and precious commodity.