Movie Details

Genre: Biography, Drama, History
Release Date: October 12, 2018
Cast: Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Corey Stoll
Director: Damien Chazelle
Production Company: Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Pictures, Temple Hill Entertainment
Runtime: 141 minutes

IMDb Scorecard

IMDb Score: 7.3/10

Is This Flick for You? (No Spoilers)

A Brief Summary

“First Man” chronicles the life of astronaut Neil Armstrong (Ryan Gosling) and the monumental journey leading up to the historic Apollo 11 mission that saw him become the first human to walk on the moon. The film delves deeply into Armstrong’s personal struggles and the emotional toll on his family, providing a poignant and intimate look at the man behind the legendary feat.

Cast & Characters

• Ryan Gosling as Neil Armstrong: Gosling delivers a subdued yet powerful performance, capturing Armstrong’s stoicism and internalized struggles.
• Claire Foy as Janet Armstrong: Foy shines as Armstrong’s supportive yet strong-willed wife, who deals with the anxieties and realities of her husband’s dangerous profession.
• Jason Clarke as Ed White: Clarke brings warmth and depth to his portrayal of Armstrong’s close friend and fellow astronaut.
• Kyle Chandler as Deke Slayton: Chandler’s performance as the NASA chief adds a layer of authority and determination to the story.

Genre & Themes

“First Man” is a biographical drama that explores themes of perseverance, loss, and the human spirit’s quest for exploration. It emphasizes the personal sacrifices and emotional challenges faced by those who push the boundaries of human achievement.

Target Audience

This movie is perfect for history buffs, space enthusiasts, and fans of biographical dramas. It’s particularly engaging for viewers interested in the human stories behind historical events. Suitable for audiences aged 13 and up, especially those who appreciate a blend of intense drama and historical accuracy.

Deep Dive (Spoiler Alert)

Plot Analysis

“First Man” offers a detailed and nuanced portrayal of Neil Armstrong’s journey from a test pilot to the first man on the moon. The film interweaves personal and professional challenges, creating a rich narrative tapestry.

Key Scenes and Their Significance

1. Opening Flight Test:
   • Description: The film opens with Armstrong piloting an X-15 rocket plane, a sequence filled with intense vibrations and disorienting spins.
   • Significance: This scene sets the tone for the film’s realistic and immersive depiction of spaceflight. It also establishes Armstrong’s cool demeanor under pressure and his commitment to the mission.

2. The Armstrong Family’s Loss:
   • Description: The film delves into the tragic death of Armstrong’s young daughter, Karen, from a brain tumor.
   • Significance: This personal loss profoundly affects Armstrong and serves as a recurring emotional undercurrent throughout the film. It highlights the sacrifices and personal struggles that often go unseen behind public achievements.

3. Gemini 8 Mission:
   • Description: Armstrong and David Scott experience a critical in-space emergency during the Gemini 8 mission when their spacecraft begins to spin uncontrollably.
   • Significance: This sequence is one of the film’s most gripping, showcasing the dangers of space exploration and Armstrong’s calm under pressure. It reinforces his capability and determination.

4. The Moon Landing:
   • Description: The climactic scene of the film, where Armstrong and Aldrin land on the moon, is portrayed with breathtaking realism. Armstrong’s first steps and the iconic words, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind,” are beautifully captured.
   • Significance: This moment is the emotional and narrative peak of the film. It’s depicted with a mix of awe and quiet triumph, reflecting both the monumental achievement and the personal journey leading up to it.

5. Return to Earth and Reconciliation:
   • Description: The film ends on a quieter note with Armstrong’s return and a poignant scene between Neil and Janet, separated by a quarantine glass but connected by their shared experiences.
   • Significance: This ending underscores the film’s focus on the personal and human aspects of Armstrong’s journey, emphasizing reconciliation and emotional closure.

Character Journey

• Neil Armstrong: Armstrong’s journey is characterized by his emotional resilience and professional dedication. Gosling’s portrayal captures his internalized grief, stoic determination, and the profound impact of his achievements on his personal life.
• Janet Armstrong: Janet’s journey is one of strength and resilience as well. Claire Foy’s performance highlights the emotional burden carried by the families of astronauts, showing her as both a supportive partner and a strong individual coping with constant fear and uncertainty.

Visuals & Vibes

“First Man” employs a gritty, immersive visual style that places viewers directly in the cockpit with Armstrong. The film’s use of practical effects, combined with handheld camera work and meticulous attention to period detail, creates an authentic and visceral experience. The moon landing sequence, shot in IMAX, stands out for its stunning realism and emotional impact.

Tunes & Tones

Justin Hurwitz’s score is haunting and evocative, perfectly complementing the film’s emotional and dramatic beats. The music ranges from tense and foreboding during spaceflight sequences to tender and reflective in moments of personal struggle, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Behind the Lens

Damien Chazelle’s direction is both ambitious and intimate, balancing the grandeur of space exploration with the quiet, personal moments of Armstrong’s life. The screenplay by Josh Singer, based on James R. Hansen’s biography, is well-crafted, blending technical accuracy with emotional depth. Chazelle’s meticulous approach ensures that every scene serves to advance the narrative and develop the characters.

Hidden Messages

“First Man” explores themes of exploration, loss, and the cost of human achievement. It delves into the emotional and psychological toll on individuals and their families, questioning the personal sacrifices required for monumental accomplishments. The film also highlights the human drive to push boundaries and explore the unknown, despite the risks involved.

The Final Word

Hits & Misses

Hits:

• Powerful performances by Ryan Gosling and Claire Foy
• Immersive and realistic depiction of spaceflight
• Emotional and introspective narrative
• Stunning visuals, especially the moon landing sequence
• Evocative and fitting score by Justin Hurwitz

Misses:

• Slow pacing in some parts may not appeal to all viewers
• Technical jargon and detailed mission sequences might be overwhelming for some

Should You Watch?

Absolutely. “First Man” is a deeply moving and visually stunning film that offers a unique perspective on one of humanity’s greatest achievements. It’s a must-watch for fans of historical dramas, space exploration, and character-driven narratives.

Fun Facts & Trivia

• The production team used a combination of archival footage, practical effects, and CGI to recreate the space missions with remarkable accuracy.
• Ryan Gosling consulted with Neil Armstrong’s family and friends to prepare for his role, aiming to capture Armstrong’s personality and demeanor authentically.
• The film’s depiction of the moon landing was shot in a massive, custom-built LED stage to replicate the lunar surface realistically.

If You Liked This, Check Out…

• Apollo 13
• Gravity
• The Martian
• Interstellar
• Hidden Figures