What’s It About
Tensions flare in the near future aboard the International Space Station when a worldwide conflict breaks out on Earth. Soon, the U.S. and Russian astronauts each receive orders from the ground: take control of the station by any means necessary.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
The film unfolds in two halves: a half-hour of intense setup resembling a Jenga tower and the subsequent hour of diving into dire peril and shifting loyalties. The story revolves around three Russians and three Americans living harmoniously on the International Space Station (I.S.S.). The cast excels in their roles, contributing to the film’s tension. As World War III erupts on Earth, the crew receives orders to take control of the space station at any cost. The film cleverly uses every piece of information to build pressure on the characters, drawing the audience into a suspenseful narrative. The weightless environment adds complexity to the unfolding events, such as bleeding-producing floating drops and the challenge of physical actions in space. One intriguing aspect of I.S.S. is its depiction of a global catastrophe from a distant observer’s perspective. The narrative refrains from providing details about the conflict on Earth, keeping both characters and the audience in the dark. This decision heightens the mystery and suspense, emphasizing tension over dramatic elements. While the film is an engaging low-budget thriller with sci-fi elements, there’s a sense that it could have been more compelling. The setup might have benefited from a longer runway, allowing for a better exploration of relationships and character dynamics during peacetime. Like Alien, the film creates immediate tension in a confined setting far from Earth. The arrival of a newcomer, scientist Kira (Ariana DeBose), introduces viewers to the characters and the space station. The second half focuses on a deadly cat-and-mouse game, leveraging conventional thriller beats in an unconventional setting. Ariana DeBose’s performance as Kira stands out, showcasing her dramatic chops in a low-key manner. The limited character development for the remaining five principals can be attributed to the film’s short running time. The crew’s workplace dynamics reflect superficial geniality and genuine teamwork, transcending cultural divisions. As tensions rise and trust crumbles, the film maintains its brisk pace, leaving little time for contemplation. I.S.S. delivers a tense and suspenseful narrative within the confines of its setting, even if some aspects could have been further explored.
OUR RATING – A SPACED OUT 6
MEDIA
- Genre – Drama
- Street date
- Digital – February 6th, 2024
- DVD/Blu-Ray – March 12th, 2024
- Video – 1080p
- Screen size – 2.39:1
- Sound – English, Russian 5.1
- Subtitles – English SDH, Spanish
Extras
- none