PASSENGERS

 A spacecraft traveling to a distant colony planet and transporting thousands of people has a malfunction in its sleep chambers. As a result, two passengers are awakened 90 years early. —IMDB

Three actors carry this enjoyable, thought-provoking movie — Jennifer Lawrence (Aurora Lane), Chris Platt (Jim Preston), and Michael Sheen (the  android robot bartender, Arthur). While none of these seem like they are at the top of their game, they do a satisfying job of carrying the story and Lawrence and Pratt have some good chemistry. PASSENGERS is a combination of sci-fi, drama, thriller, romance — and a few other genres. It’s nearly two hours long which allows time for the relationship between Jim and Aurora to develop over the first half of the movie. Then the last half ramps up to be an on-the-edge-of-your-seat thriller. Lots of issues are subtly explored in PASSENGERS — ethics, the nature of being human, the need for human connection with other humans, betrayal, and much more. It would be possible to enjoy the movie without giving too much thought to these issues. But those observant enough to notice them will have an enhanced experience watching the movie. The director only uses special effects when needed — which is a relief and allows the story to take centre stage. My favourite special effects moment in the film is when Jennifer Lawrence’s character is caught under water in a swimming pool during the loss of gravity in the spacecraft. Loved it. The space cinematography is excellent and worth seeing on the big screen. Critics seem to be offering mixed reviews for this one and averaging pretty low in their ratings. I recommend ignoring them — I’m glad I did.