Interstellar

Okay, so I finally got to see "Interstellar", a speculative tale of mankind's rent on planet Earth coming due, and it's either find another planet to inhabit, or go the ways of the dinosaurs.

Christopher Nolan's film is ambitious in scope, both in time and space, and takes liberties with human emotions as an observable force in of itself, yet somewhat un-quantifiable, but existing nonetheless in terms of interpersonal dynamics. For a film that frames the question, how does mankind take the next necessary leap into space for survival of the species, the mechanics of the plot offer an interesting puzzle to the viewer, and by the time you get to the final act, you either accept the central premise that the Nolans' (Christopher and Jonathan) script pushes through the narrative, or you don't. I lean in the acceptance camp, mainly because, the other camp is a lonely cold place, just like space, and that's just no fun.

Was the film overly long and boring with a running time nearly 3 hours? No, not for me, I was firmly entertained and intrigued as each plot development unfurled for the film. Character development, oddly enough, is not overly expansive, but with the characters providing enough push-pull for actions and motivations while serving the overall plot.

But if "Interstellar" could be considered a 4-act film, I would say the 3rd act is the weakest, and yet oddly dramatic, and I understand why it was somewhat needed to get us to the final act, it just seemed a little too mundane in terms of the plotting. Also, the musical cues and blaring organ play seemed just a bit too overly dramatic and ham-fisted in spots, which was jarring at times.

Anyone who likes space exploration themed films should check this film out, as it is an immersive viewing experience and treats relativistic concepts of time and space of interstellar travel well enough to explain to the laymen without dumbing it down so much that it shows contempt for its audience.

I give it 3.75 stars, or a grade of A-.