I.S.S. presents a gripping sci-fi narrative with a compact cast and a storyline that resonates with authenticity despite its speculative nature. The reactions of its characters feel strikingly familiar, and its bold conclusion leaves a lasting impact. Dive into our comprehensive review of I.S.S. below!
I.S.S. is the kind of film that lingers in your thoughts long after the credits roll. It’s a sci-fi thriller that delves into the depths of human emotions, prompting viewers to contemplate their own actions in similar circumstances. It challenges audiences to ponder their stance on crucial moral dilemmas.
Set aboard the International Space Station, the film’s themes are firmly grounded in reality. It explores the consequences of succumbing to fear and abandoning diplomacy, highlighting the dire outcomes that ensue when rational discourse gives way to blind adherence to orders.
It’s essential to note that I.S.S. transcends the simplistic dichotomy of a US versus Russia narrative; instead, it grapples with broader issues concerning humanity and the delicate balance between diplomacy and unwavering obedience.
Are we destined for doom? In I.S.S., we’re thrust into a near-future scenario where escalating tensions on Earth trigger a violent conflict visible even from the depths of space. As communication with Earth deteriorates, both the US and Russian governments issue a single directive to the astronauts aboard the station: seize control at any cost.
With only six astronauts on board, unity becomes paramount. However, conflicting loyalties and divergent ideologies threaten to tear them apart. What unfolds is not merely an action-packed spectacle but a harrowing tale of survival amidst escalating chaos.
Ariana DeBose, a recipient of the prestigious Academy Award, leads the ensemble cast with remarkable poise, supported by Chris Messina and John Gallagher Jr. on the US side, and a talented roster of Russian actors including Costa Ronin and Masha Mashkova. Notably, Danish actor Pilou Asbæk adds an international flair to the mix, portraying a Russian cosmonaut with conviction.
While I.S.S. admirably portrays the collaborative spirit of the International Space Station, it falls short in representing its true diversity. The ISS is a multinational endeavor involving five space agencies, yet the film’s portrayal predominantly focuses on the US and Russia, overlooking the contributions of other nations. A more inclusive depiction would have enriched the narrative, offering a nuanced exploration of cross-cultural alliances amid crisis.
The film’s denouement defies convention, eschewing simplistic resolutions in favor of nuanced ambiguity. Rather than neatly tying up loose ends, it confronts viewers with the complexities of human nature and the unpredictability of fate. While divisive, the ending’s audaciousness is commendable, offering a departure from the normative tropes of the genre.
Under the deft direction of Gabriela Cowperthwaite, I.S.S. unfolds as a tense and riveting psychological thriller set against the backdrop of space. Nick Shafir’s debut screenplay lays the foundation for an engrossing narrative, complemented by a stellar cast and Cowperthwaite’s adept direction.
While not a traditional sci-fi thriller, I.S.S. delivers all the hallmarks of the genre while delving into deeper psychological terrain. Its exploration of a looming apocalypse juxtaposed with the vast expanse of space offers a hauntingly dark yet captivating cinematic experience.
Catch I.S.S. in limited theaters, premiering on January 19, 2024, and prepare for a journey into the depths of human resilience amidst cosmic turmoil.