The Martian Review

Last week, I introduced you to the trailer for the movie Project Hailmary, which will be released in March next year. I read Andy Weir's original novel over the weekend. After reading the novel, I felt the trailer differently. Andy Weir's first novel, The Martian, was also made into a movie, and it was a box office success. Today, I want to share my thoughts on Ridley Scott’s sci-fi film The Martian, starring Matt Damon. Even years after its release, this movie about survival on Mars and the resilience of the human spirit still leaves a lasting impression.

Introduction to the Film

The Martian tells the story of Mark Watney, a botanist and astronaut who is accidentally left behind on Mars after a violent storm forces his crew to evacuate. With no way to contact Earth and limited supplies, Watney must rely on his scientific knowledge, creativity, and determination to survive. Meanwhile, NASA and his crewmates on Earth work tirelessly to bring him home, leading to a gripping tale of ingenuity and hope.

Characters

• Mark Watney (Matt Damon):
  The heart of the film, Watney is resourceful, witty, and relentlessly optimistic. His daily video logs, filled with humor and scientific problem-solving, make him a deeply relatable and likable protagonist. Watching him grow potatoes using Martian soil and crew waste is surprisingly thrilling and highlights his ability to adapt and persevere.
• Commander Melissa Lewis (Jessica Chastain):
  The leader of the Ares 3 mission, Lewis is torn between her duty to the crew and her guilt over leaving Watney behind. Her sense of responsibility and leadership are central to the film’s emotional core.
• NASA Team:
  Characters like Vincent Kapoor (Chiwetel Ejiofor) and Teddy Sanders (Jeff Daniels) represent the collective effort on Earth to save Watney. Their collaboration, quick thinking, and willingness to take risks showcase the best of human cooperation.

Review and Impressions

From the opening sequence, The Martian draws viewers into the harsh beauty of Mars. The film’s pacing is tight, balancing moments of suspense with lighter, humorous scenes. Watney’s struggle to survive—growing food, repairing equipment, and finding ways to communicate with NASA—feels both realistic and inspiring. The science is presented in a way that’s accessible without being oversimplified, making the story engaging for both science enthusiasts and general audiences.

One of the film’s greatest strengths is its tone. Despite the life-or-death stakes, The Martian never becomes overly grim. Watney’s humor, even in the face of disaster, keeps the mood buoyant. His catchphrase, “I’m going to have to science the shit out of this,” perfectly captures the film’s blend of optimism and practicality.

The visual effects are stunning, with sweeping shots of the Martian landscape and detailed depictions of the habitat and technology. The soundtrack, filled with disco hits, adds a playful touch and contrasts with the isolation of space.

The supporting cast, though not as deeply developed as Watney, bring warmth and energy to their roles. The scenes on Earth and aboard the Hermes spacecraft add urgency and a sense of global unity, as people from different backgrounds come together for a common goal.

Final Thoughts

The Martian is more than a survival story—it’s a celebration of human ingenuity, teamwork, and the will to overcome impossible odds. Matt Damon’s performance is both heartfelt and entertaining, and Ridley Scott’s direction keeps the film visually and emotionally engaging from start to finish. The movie inspires viewers to believe in the power of science, humor, and hope, even in the most desperate situations.

If you’re looking for a film that combines thrilling adventure, smart problem-solving, and genuine heart, The Martian is a must-watch. It’s a reminder that, with determination and a little creativity, we can face any challenge the universe throws our way.