WARNING: Spoilers ahead for Spaceman.
Netflix's new thought-provoking sci-fi drama Spaceman deliberately keeps its timeline vague and open to interpretation. Directed by Johan Renck, known for his outstanding work on popular shows like Chernobyl, Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead, Vikings, and Bloodline. Despite Renck's impressive credentials, Spaceman has received mixed feedback from critics, currently holding a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 51% since its streaming debut on March 1, 2024.
Spaceman Seems To Take Place In A Parallel '80s Or '90s
In Spaceman, Adam Sandler delivers another noteworthy dramatic performance, reminiscent of his roles in Uncut Gems, Punch-Drunk Love, and Hustle. The story follows Sandler's character, Jakub, who receives the heartbreaking news of his wife Lenka, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, wanting a divorce while he is on a 12-month solo mission in outer space. As Jakub collects samples of the enigmatic Chopra Cloud, a strange yet friendly alien arachnid creature joins him in his solitude amidst the cosmic wonders.
Adam Sandler Spaceman - Spaceman Seems To Take Place In A Parallel '80s Or '90s
In Spaceman, there are interesting contradictions between the advanced technology and retro aesthetics. For instance, the Chopra Cloud, located as far as Jupiter from Earth, was reached by Jakub in just six months in his spaceship. What's even more intriguing is that all the technology in Spaceman appears to be from the 1980s or early 1990s.
Jakub's mission duration in Spaceman remains a mystery, adding to the film's space-age fantasy appeal. Director Johan Renck intentionally keeps the timeline ambiguous, stating in an interview with Dextero that the story does not unfold in our present reality. Renck explains that the retro visual style of the film, with its analog feel, creates a parallel world that is not tied to any specific time period. Despite this detachment from reality, the film still explores the concept of space travel beyond our current capabilities.
Adam Sandler and Carey Mulligan nearly kiss in Spaceman - How Long Was Jakub On His Mission In Spaceman?
In the book "Spaceman of Bohemia" by Jaroslav Kalfař, the story begins with Jakub on Day 189 of his mission, approaching the halfway point of his year-long expedition. Although the movie adaptation shows his mission lasting only 8 months, such rapid space travel is not a reality yet. This adds to the overall theme of the story, suggesting that Spaceman exists outside of any known time or space, enhancing its intriguing blend of cerebral and space fantasy elements.
Source: Dextero
Editor's P/S:
The article on Netflix's "Spaceman" piques interest with its intriguing premise and Adam Sandler's acclaimed dramatic performance. The deliberate ambiguity of the timeline and the juxtaposition of advanced technology with retro aesthetics create a captivating sense of mystery and otherworldliness. Director Johan Renck's vision of a parallel world that exists beyond the confines of our present reality adds a layer of cerebral depth to the space fantasy genre.
However, the mixed critical reception of "Spaceman" suggests that it may not fully live up to its potential. While the film's strengths lie in its thought-provoking exploration of space travel and human relationships, it remains to be seen whether its unconventional approach will resonate with a wider audience. Ultimately, the film's success will depend on its ability to balance its cerebral and escapist elements and deliver a satisfying and cohesive cinematic experience.
