THE MARTIAN
Director: Ridley Scott
Cert: 12A 141 mins
The Martian concerns the human astronaut Mark Watney (Matt Damon), who’s presumed dead on a Mars mission. On a planetary base designed for 30 days, he has to figure out how to survive for four years until someone can come and rescue him, if he can even make contact with NASA.
The film is made with a love for science, reason and humour. These are God-given things, and it’s good to be thankful for them.
There’s an interesting scene where, in order to make fire to heat hydrogen to make water to grow crops to survive, Mark Watney uses wood shavings from a crucifix, because there’s nothing else he can use, all of NASA’s equipment being flame-retardant. He says: ‘Given my current situation, I think you understand. Counting on ya.’ Though perhaps not intended, this could serve as a reminder that, in terms of our standing with God and spiritual life, our only hope is the cross.
The value of a life
In another scene with death seemingly looming, Watney passes on a message ultimately intended for his parents. ‘Tell them … he died for something bigger than himself, something beautiful.’ He’s talking about science and the exploration of the universe, but that theme could arguably mean more.
Most of the characters go to great efforts in order to save Mark Watney’s life. He’s just one man, but the film shows how nonetheless his life has great value, which we appreciate precisely because of these efforts. It’s amazing to think that Jesus went even further – to the cross, and then he rose again – in order to save undeserving sinners.
The Martian is a great story that explores themes such as science, survival and the human instinct to help others, all in an engaging way. Aesthetically, the film presents us with stunning vistas of Mars, and the 3D gives it nice added depth. Harry Gregson-Williams’s music is effective, plus there are some audacious song choices (a little bit like in Marvel’s Guardians of the Galaxy).
In addition to a scene where the main character has to operate on himself, there’s one instance of mild nudity, and some bad language.
