Marvel’s ‘Black Widow’ fans meet the protagonist of Nicholas Sparks’ ‘Dear John’. This is probably the best way to describe the American comedy-drama headed by Greg Berlanti.
The story of this fictional rom-com is based on the assumption that the moon landing was staged. It loosely derives from true historical facts, yet much of it is fiction with a comic twist. This is what makes it laudable. Yet it lacks the punch which is much needed to make it an outstanding romantic comedy in the likes of ‘The Fall Guy’ and ‘How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days’.
The core of ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ is the relationship between Kelly and Cole, set against the backdrop of the historic moon landing in 1969. Cole’s strict adherence to truth and transparency and Kelly’s marketing strategies clash, resulting in a push-and-pull dynamic that fuels much of the comedy and drama in the movie.
Scarlett Johansson’s portrayal of Kelly, a master manipulator, deceives public figures and politicians into endorsing the Apollo 11 mission. Johansson’s versatility is demonstrated by her skill at assuming different accents and personas to fit her needs, which also gives her character a humorous touch.
Different personalities
Cole and Kelly have different personalities, but as their respect for one another increases, they grow closer. However, just as it appeared that the two would be able to fall into each other’s arms forever, Moe reappears on the scene and tells Kelly that, in case Apollo 11 fails, the Nixon White House wants her to stage a fake video of the moon landing.
Channing Tatum, however, plays Cole Davis in a more solemn and subdued manner. The deaths of the Apollo 1 astronauts have a profound impact on his character, which gives his commitment to the Apollo 11 mission a sombre undertone. The film has moving moments because of Cole’s internal conflict and his dedication to remembering his fallen comrades. Tatum adds subtle comic elements to his performance despite his serious demeanour, especially in his interactions with Johansson.
Woody Harrelson too excels as Moe Berkus, the mysterious agent whose unique combination of humour and menace makes him a memorable character. Moe is portrayed by Harrelson as a credible threat who would do whatever it takes to ensure the mission’s success, and his performance is both entertaining and unnerving. The darker forces at work behind the ostensibly glamorous space race are frequently brought to light by his scenes. The film’s romantic and humorous aspects are skillfully balanced with its more sombre and dramatic moments under Berlanti’s direction. Rose Gilroy’s screenplay skillfully combines fiction and historical details to produce a novel and sentimental story.
Outstanding performances
‘Fly Me To The Moon’ has some pacing problems, though. As the numerous subplots compete for resolution, the third act seems a little drawn out. Although the film’s attempt to balance several plotlines occasionally causes viewers to lose focus, the cast’s outstanding performances keep viewers interested.
Clever and enjoyable, ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ presents a distinctive perspective on the Apollo 11 mission. The film is enjoyable to watch because of the chemistry between Johansson and Tatum as well as Harrelson’s outstanding performances. Even though it might not be true to history, its humour, romance, and drama make it interesting and thought-provoking.
Much of space exploration is about men’s little steps, even though we want it to be about the enormous leaps for humanity. ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ aims to make you believe in its enormous leaps while emphasising the little ones and landing hard somewhere in the middle.
The film has all the ingredients to be a successful retro rom-com, including a stellar cast, an alluring 1960s setting, and rocket-powered stakes, but the end product is a jumbled and disappointing one. Although it aims for the stars, ‘Fly Me To The Moon’ never quite makes it there.
