FLY ME TO THE MOON – “Remains charming despite being tonally lost in space”

flymetothemoon

RATING

DIRECTOR

Directed by: Greg Berlanti (Love, Simon - 2018)

MAIN CAST

Scarlett Johansson as Kelly Jones
Channing Tatum as Cole Davis
Jim Rash as Lance Vespertine
Ray Romano as Henry Smalls
Woody Harrelson as Moe Berkus
• Joe Chrest as Senator Vanning

SYNOPSIS

During the 1960s Space Race between the United States and the Soviet Union, a relationship develops between the NASA director in charge of the Apollo 11 launch and the marketing specialist brought in to fix NASA's public image and stage a "back-up" fake Moon landing.

REVIEW SUMMARY

Greg Berlantis’ Fly Me to The Moon remains charming despite being tonally lost in space. Yes, I’m afraid it’s another case of a film trying to accomplish too much. You see, it goes for screwball comedy, earnest romance, and heartfelt human drama – with neither landing particularly great. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a trainwreck, and is certainly enjoyable at times, but its narrative is never fully realized because of all the mix mashes. Plus, there’s the odd “historical” aspect at play. This is not some “amazing true story” of what happened behind the scenes of the moon landing, but rather an “amazing reimagining” of what “might” have happened (but not likely) behind the scenes of the moon landing. And, well, the loosey-goosey historic elements are hard to connect with. On the flip side, there’s no denying that the filmmakers nailed the period-accurate production designs. The late 60s look and feel is spot on, and it’s all paired with a wonderfully zippy soundtrack. The sharp production goes along way, as does the performances. The MVP here is Scarlett Johansson. The affable starlet is given lots to do, and she undoubtably shines with her funny, charming, and, at times, profound, output. I wish I could say the same for her co-star Channing Tatum, who unfortunately comes across as exceptionally wooden. I can appreciate that his character is rather reserved and stoic, but Tatum’s natural charisma is nearly non-existent. Despite the miscast, he and Johansson have nice onscreen chemistry, which, I suppose, is the main thing. So, while it’s likely not going to rocket your enjoyment to the stars, Fly Me to The Moon will enchant you enough to get you off the ground.

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