Fly Me to the Moon (2024) Movie Review: A Tonal Rollercoaster with A-List Stars
Introduction
Fly Me to the Moon (2024), directed by Greg Berlanti and streaming on Apple TV, is a genre-blending film that veers from romantic comedy to political satire and drama. Despite its ambitious narrative and stellar cast, the film struggles with tonal consistency and pacing, ultimately failing to deliver a cohesive cinematic experience.
Plot Overview
Set in the late 1960s, the film follows Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson), an ad executive hired to promote the American space program. She crosses paths with Cole Davis (Channing Tatum), a stoic launch director still haunted by the Apollo 1 tragedy. As the Apollo 11 mission approaches, Kelly and Cole must navigate professional and personal challenges, including a subplot involving a staged moon landing.
Character Development and Performances
Johansson shines as Kelly, embodying a dynamic and charismatic character. Her ability to adapt and manipulate her surroundings provides much of the film’s enjoyment. In contrast, Tatum’s portrayal of Cole lacks the necessary chemistry with Johansson, making their romantic connection unconvincing. The supporting cast, including Woody Harrelson as a shadowy government figure and Jim Rash as a frustrated filmmaker, add color to the film but can’t salvage its deeper issues.
Cinematography and Costume Design
Mary Zophres’ costume design is a highlight, with mid-century chic ensembles that perfectly capture the era. Cinematographer John Guleserian beautifully frames the retro aesthetic, enhancing the visual appeal. However, these elements can’t fully compensate for the film’s narrative shortcomings.
Themes and Tonal Inconsistency
The film’s attempt to blend multiple genres results in a disjointed narrative. The shift from romantic comedy to political satire and drama is jarring, leaving viewers confused about the film’s true intent. The conspiracy theory subplot about a faked moon landing adds an interesting twist but feels underdeveloped.
Final Verdict
Fly Me to the Moon boasts impressive performances and stylish production design but suffers from a lack of tonal coherence and an overlong runtime. The film’s potential is undermined by its inability to seamlessly integrate its various elements. Fans of the lead actors might find some enjoyment, but the film ultimately falls short of being a memorable entry in their filmographies.
Where to Watch Fly Me to the Moon (2024) Movie Online
For those intrigued by a blend of retro romance and political intrigue, Fly Me to the Moon is available to stream on Apple TV.
