Red hot sci-fi epic
– The Martian is as exquisitely detailed a sci-fi film Hollywood can produce yet that technological polish in both the futuristic science on display and the visual splendor of its cinematography doesn’t overwhelm the script’s marvelously intrepid heart. Matt Damon is perfect as the botanist/astronaut left behind to fend for himself on the gorgeously imagined red planet and along with a red-letter cast and Ridley Scott’s impeccable direction, “The Martian” is a rousing, crowd-pleasing yarn that is a wonder to behold.
Who should see it: Everyone who loves sci-fi epics
Who should stay home: Those who hate “Cast Away” and the color red
Grade: A-
Bruce Bennett Short Bio
Bruce Bennett has been the primary contributor to Mad About Movies since it began in 2003. He is an award winning film and theater critic who, since 2000, has been writing a weekly column in The Spectrum daily newspaper in southern Utah as well as serving as a contributing editor of “The Independent,” a monthly entertainment magazine. He is also the co-host of “Film Fanatics” a movie review show which earned a Telly in 2009. Bruce is also a featured contributor at: RottenTomatoes.com
His motto: "I see bad movies so you don't have to."