The film has an exceptional cast (Image: 20th Century Fox)
There’s nothing quite like getting comfortable on the sofa and settling in for a spectacular film on the telly — and tonight presents the perfect opportunity, as an exceptional movie is set to grace Film4’s schedule.
Boasting a remarkable cast and helmed by one of the most celebrated directors of our generation, this film also carries a near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score. What more could you ask for?
Directed by Ridley Scott and featuring Matt Damon, Jessica Chastain, and Kristen Wiig in starring roles, The Martian will air on Film4 this evening, October 21, at 6.15pm.
The Martian is a sci-fi survival thriller based on Andy Weir’s 2011 novel of the same name. With a screenplay penned by Drew Goddard, the film also features Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sean Bean, Michael Peña, Kate Mara, Sebastian Stan, and Mackenzie Davis, completing an utterly stellar ensemble cast.
The 2015 blockbuster raked in a staggering $653.6 million at the global box office against a production budget of $108 million, making it the 10th highest-grossing film of that year. It remains Ridley Scott’s biggest commercial success to date, surpassing even such giants as Gladiator I and II, Hannibal, Alien, and Blade Runner, reports Wales Online.
Viewers have called it a ‘rare and unique masterpiece’ (Image: 20th Century Fox)
The official synopsis for The Martian states: “When astronauts blast off from the planet Mars, they leave behind Mark Watney, presumed dead after a fierce storm. With only a meagre amount of supplies, the stranded visitor must utilize his wits and spirit to find a way to survive on the hostile planet. Meanwhile, back on Earth, members of NASA and a team of international scientists work tirelessly to bring him home, while his crew mates hatch their own plan for a daring rescue mission.”
Shot across 70 days with 20 sets constructed on one of the largest sound stages globally in Budapest, Hungary, The Martian has undoubtedly established itself as a remarkable cult classic in the years following its debut. The science fiction blockbuster garnered seven Academy Award nominations, including nods for Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Adapted Screenplay.
Boasting an impressive 91% Rotten Tomatoes score from both audiences and critics, The Martian has demonstrated universal appeal amongst filmgoers.
One critic said of the film: “The Martian is exactly the reason why we watch movies. It’s fun, exciting, and a thrilling spectacle with deep emotional payoffs and strong performances from its all-star cast.”
The blockbuster has been directed by one of the most accomplished filmmakers of our time (Image: 20th Century Fox)
While another reviewer stated of the sci-fi spectacle: “A crowd pleaser for all ages that is fun but tense, meaty yet light, and about as inspiring as it gets.”
A third critic noted: “The Martian is that rare film that both thrills and inspires, so much so that I’m sure it will be seen repeatedly at the theatre and at home for years to come.”
Yet another impressed reviewer added: “The Martian is the unique kind of blockbuster that you can marvel at in awe while still maintaining an emotional connection. It truly does have it all.”
Audiences were equally captivated by Ridley Scott’s sci-fi epic, with one viewer writing: “This movie is a job well-done. Incredible execution. Matt Damon’s performance alone makes this movie a masterpiece in the sci-fi genre. Personally, I adore Sci-fi movies. It’s my favourite genre. And I have seen many of ’em but nothing hit me like Interstellar and The Martian did. This is an incredible movie. A must watch one. I recommend 100%.”
Another fan of the film said: “This movie was not only captivating but it had humour, emotion and it grabbed my attention for the entire film. Loved Matt Damon who was so right for this part. A must see that will grab your heart, make you laugh and maybe even restore a bit of compassion for humanity that seems to be getting lost in the shuffle these days”
The ‘exceptional’ film is airing on Film4 this evening at 6.15pm (Image: 20th Century Fox)
One viewer’s review compared it to Gravity: “A film that has a story, great acting, fantastic visuals (and sets) with humour sprinkled throughout is my kind of movie. This movie really is the package deal. There are twists and surprises (that I greatly appreciated) but I did find the scattered humorous lines really make the film engaging.
“It was great to walk away from viewing a movie and think it was a fantastic way to spend the past two hours. Personally I found this film to be MUCH more interesting than Gravity.”
Another fan of the movie added: “The Martian had to be one of the most high awakening experiences of my entire life. Matt Damon’s performance brings us in emotionally and even physically at times.
“The acting and will to live absolutely made this movie thrilling to watch and gives the viewer a really good perspective analysis. I wish there were more movies like this out there”.
The Martian will air on Film4 this evening, October 21, at 6.15pm.
