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I.S.S. (Movie Review)

“I.S.S.” Review by Rosa Parra.

“I.S.S.,” is directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite and takes place in The International Space Station (I.S.S.), where research and advancement occur in outer space. Onboard are six astronauts, three from the United States and three from Russia. When a war ensues between both countries (on earth), a message is sent to take control of the I.S.S (respectively). What unfolds is a tense and unpredictable series of events.

Academy Award winner Ariana DeBose leads the cast alongside Masha Mashkova, Chris Messina, Costa Ronin, John Gallagher Jr, and Pilou Asbaek—a cast whose dynamic makes the suspenseful moments engaging.

The opening shot is a close-up of Dr. Kira Foster (DeBose) as she and her companion Christian (Gallagher) are on their way to the I.S.S. Once they arrive, they’re greeted warmly and given a tour of the station. Dr. Foster is in charge of the research mice and attempts to learn some Russian to communicate with the others. In the first 20 minutes, we see a group of people laughing and enjoying each other’s companionship. We wonder what’s possible when no individual divisions exist despite cultural differences.

The camerawork gives the audience a lived-in-space experience with its floating, unstable movement. And the superb CGI further draws the audience into space.

In addition to the visuals, what stands out from the film is the focus on the characters’ interactions rather than presenting an absurd journey to the center of the universe, defying the laws of physics. This looks into the human dynamics and how easily they can change when those in power decide otherwise. Having a perspective from space is supposed to cause a spiritual awakening since no borders are distinguishable from that distance and, most importantly, the magnitude of the universe is more digestible. Yet, not even being out in space can change the brainwashing done to humanity.

What transpires is a series of circumstances that lead to unfortunate outcomes. Decisions are made based on individual perspectives and feelings. Despite various opinions, the characters are complexly written to understand their motives. The outcome isn’t predictable. This left me contemplating the extent to which humanity is willing to go in the name of research and superiority.

Overall, “I.S.S.” is a space drama fueled with tension and unpredictability, anchored by DeBose’s subtle and moving performance. “I.S.S.” presents the current human condition through a microscope.

4/5

Film Critic, Rosa Para, also contributes to The Daily Chela and Rotten Tomatoes.