THE MARTIAN (2015)

A magnificent piece of filmmaking directed by Ridley Scott based on a novel of the same name by Andy Weir and boasting a career defining performance by Matt Damon that hits all the right notes and balances, while being scientifically sound and wildly entertaining at the same time. There are so many reasons to recommend this film that I can only say that for those of you who read the novel will not be disappointed even though certain changes were made to facilitate a truly spectacular and wholly satisfying conclusion. Special recognition to a cast of extraordinary actors that include Jessica Chastain, Kristen Wiig (especially noteworthy in a dramatic turn), Jeff Daniels, Michael Pena, Kate Mara, Sean Bean, Sebastian Stan, Aksel Hennie, Chiwetel Ejiofor and Donald Glover among many. Special mention must be made to Drew Goddard’s spectacular screenplay, Dariusz Wolski’s cinematography (his work here will probably have him competing against himself at Oscar time, having done the equally superb THE WALK) and extraordinary film editing by Pietro Scalia. The Special Effects are incredible and every effort should be made to view this film in theatres and in 3D. Spectacular filmmaking in every sense of the word.