Ad Astra: Review of a deep and interesting film

1. Introduction:

Do you think of space and what do you think of when a movie is about this vast universe? "Ad Astra" is a movie that presents a deep story of space and personal journey. Released in 2019, this movie is directed by James Gray and stars Brad Pitt in the lead role. The entire focus of the movie is not only on space travel, but it is also based on the mental struggle of a human being and family relationships. "Ad Astra" can be placed in the realm of science-fiction, but the deep impact of human emotions is also felt in this movie. The story of the film is about an astronaut, Roy McBride (Brad Pitt), who tries to cope with the loss of his father and struggles in space during a mission. Are you ready to experience a movie that shows not only the infinity of the universe, but also the emotions and struggles of human beings? If yes, then let's go together in a detailed review of this movie.

2. Plot Summary :

The story of "Ad Astra" is based on the journey of an astronaut Roy McBride. Roy's father, Clyde McBride, was a famous astronaut who went missing after setting out on a mission many years ago. Now, Roy is tasked with locating and searching for his father during another mission. Roy is convinced that his father is traveling to the far-flung parts of the universe under a secret mission and doing some activities that endanger the world. The story of the film revolves around the mental and emotional struggle of Roy, who sets out on his journey after his father goes missing. Roy not only has to fight outer space, but also has to face his inner fear and loneliness. The scenes of the universe in the film are very spectacular, but in the midst of all this, it is Roy's emotional journey that connects the audience. Will Roy be able to find his father? And will he be able to get out of his mental struggle? This is the main attraction of this film.

3. Cast & Characters:

Brad Pitt plays Roy McBride in "Ad Astra". Brad Pitt's acting is really great. His facial expressions and the deep thought and loneliness that is seen in his eyes add to the reality of the film. Roy's character is a man who not only fights outer space, but also struggles with his inner emotions, such as loneliness, fear and memories of family. Brad Pitt plays this character so well that the audience goes on the whole journey with him. Apart from this, Tommy Lee Jones plays Roy's father, Clyde McBride, in the film. Tommy's acting is strong as always and by depicting the mental state of his character, it makes the film even more exciting. Not only the main cast, but other minor characters are also very important in the film, among which Ruth (Liv Tyler) also has a special place, who shows Roy's personal life and relationships in an effective way.

4. Direction & Cinematography :

"Ad Astra" has emerged as a deep and beautiful film under the direction of James Gray. He has presented the vastness of the universe very well in the film, which not only mesmerizes the audience, but also creates a strange thought in their mind. The tone of the film is slow and intense, which keeps the audience engaged throughout the journey of the film. James Gray has mixed emotions very well in this film, and the scientific facts depicted also increase the authenticity of the film. At the same time, the work done by Mattias Totten in cinematography is very brilliant. Every scene in the film has been shot in such a way that it not only shows the awe-inspiring views of the universe, but also expresses Roy's mental struggle very well. Space scenes, such as the flight of the shuttle or the subtlety of traveling in space, have been shot very beautifully. This cinematography makes the audience feel themselves in space.

5. Writing & Storytelling:

The story of "Ad Astra", which is written by James Gray and Ethan Gray, is very deep and thoughtful. The writing weaves the entire film at a slow pace, making the audience feel every little change. From the beginning to the end of the film, Roy's mental state, his journey and his thoughts are presented in a very brilliant way. Despite the element of science-fiction in the film, it is shown as a personal journey, which is very effective. In the story, Roy's inner fear, anger towards his father, and the fear of getting lost in the unknown parts of the universe, are all written very well. Apart from this, the emotional twists in the film are also depicted well. There are some dialogues that touch the hearts of the audience and take the message of the film directly to their mind. The writing of this film presents it as a mental and emotional journey, which gives an exciting experience.

6. Music & Sound Design :

The music and sound design of "Ad Astra" play an important role in the overall experience of the film. The music composed by Lordson supports the science-fiction and emotional tone of the film very well. Especially in the space scenes of the film, music has been used very effectively, which makes the audience feel the vastness and strangeness. While on one hand the music shows peace and concentration, on the other hand it also describes the turmoil inside Roy. Apart from this, a lot of care has also been taken in the sound design. Like the absence of sound in space, it has been shown very effectively in the film, which gives a real experience of space. The flight of the shuttle, the journey from Earth to space, and then the silence there are all presented effectively through sound design.

7. Themes & Messages :

Many deep and important topics have been touched upon in "Ad Astra". Most importantly, the film talks about loneliness, mental struggles and family relationships. Roy's journey is not just an external mission, but it is also his internal journey, in which he tries to repair his relationship with his father. The film shows that no matter how high we reach, we cannot escape our personal issues and struggles. Also, the film shows that no matter how far we go, we cannot move forward without resolving the fear and anger inside us. Apart from this, the film also forces us to think about the vastness of the universe - what is the purpose of our existence, do we exist only physically, or is there something more inside us?

8. Personal Opinion & Critique :

"Ad Astra" is a great film in my view, which not only talks about science and space, but it also shows human emotions and mentality. Brad Pitt's acting is very impressive, and he has played his character very well. The cinematography and direction are simply superb. However, the pace of the film can be slow and some viewers may find it long. But if you want a deep movie experience, which does not go only on the show, but focuses on emotions and thoughts, then you will definitely like this film. The ending of the film can be confusing for some viewers, as it does not completely reveal what the end of Roy's journey was, but it can be taken as a thoughtful message.

9. Audience & Recommendations :

"Ad Astra" is for those viewers who like deep and thoughtful movies. If you like science-fiction movies, then this film is right for you, as it has amazing views of space and great use of science. Also, if you want to see the depth of emotional journey and relationships in the film, then you must watch this film. This movie can also be a good choice for those who want to experience a movie that focuses on internal struggles rather than solely on external events. If you are a fan of Brad Pitt, then you must watch this movie.

10. Conclusion & Rating :

"Ad Astra" is a movie that gives you both thrill and depth. The direction, cinematography, music, and acting of the movie are all excellent. Brad Pitt's performance brings life to the movie, and his deep emotions reach the audience. The message of the movie is very deep, and it forces you to think about where we are headed. Although its slow pace and complex story may put off some viewers, if you are one to think about deep thoughts and mental struggles, then this movie is great for you. I give it a rating of 4/5.