Directed by Greg Berlanti, this charming romantic comedy-drama set against the thrilling backdrop of the 1960s Space Race stars Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum and Woody Harrelson.
The film centres on the unexpected romance between Kelly Jones (Johansson doing her best impression of Christina Hendricks as Joan Harris in Mad Men), an advertising specialist brought in to improve NASA’s public image, and the handsome, yet taciturn Cole Davis (Tatum), the NASA director responsible for the Apollo 11 launch.
Channelling classic ’60s romcoms like Pillow Talk and A Touch of Mink, the film follows Kelly and Cole as they clash over how to “sell” the moon-landing to a Vietnam war-weary American public. But as they start to fall for one another, their already shaky relationship is thrown into deeper turmoil when Kelly is ordered by Harrelson’s enigmatic secret service boss Moe Berkus, to orchestrate and then film a fake moon landing, in case the real one fails.
The film is at its very best when centring on the relationship between its two principal characters. Their chemistry is the heart of the movie, and both Johansson and Tatum deliver performances that are endearing and relatable.
Johansson’s portrayal of Kelly is both strong and nuanced, capturing the character’s determination to prove herself in a male dominated world. Tatum’s Cole is equally compelling, bringing a mix of charm and earnestness to the role. Supporting the leads is a talented ensemble cast, including Ray Romano as the pragmatic Henry Smalls, and Harrelson as the gruff but lovable Berkus.
The screenplay by Rose Gilroy deftly blends romance and comedy with historical drama, but is often let down by the misjudged addition of a fake moon landing plot line. The dialogue is sharp and often humorous, capturing the era’s spirit while making the characters’ interactions feel genuine.
Visually, “Fly Me to the Moon” captures the 1960s with flair. The production design, costumes, and period details immerse viewers in the time period, adding authenticity to the narrative. The scenes involving NASA’s operations and the depiction of the Space Race are particularly well-done, blending historical accuracy with cinematic spectacle.
While “Fly Me to the Moon” shines in many areas, it isn’t without its minor flaws. The pacing occasionally lags, particularly in the middle act, and some plot points may feel somewhat predictable. However, these issues do not significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the film.
While it doesn’t redefine the genre, the film offers an engaging and heart-warming story, making it a delightful watch for those who enjoy a blend of romance, history, and humour.
