Europa Report is hands down the most painstakingly accurate space movie we've seen in ages. You want some semblance of realism in the story of a three-year journey to Jupiter's Moon Europa? AND a gripping narrative, you got it. Here's out first impressions, along with an exclusive look at the brand new poster.
Europa Report centers around a six-person crew on a three year trip to Europa. The cast is made up of both men and women — but there's no drama. Don't expect the aged Russian astronaut to drop trou with the female pilot, that shit doesn't fly on this ship. Because they're scientists, experts, athletes, and military folk who take their mission just as seriously as Cmdr. Chris Hadfield of the International Space Station.
The brilliance behind this no-nonsense approach is seen the second real problems occur. The first time you witness a member of Europa Ventures (this trip is privately funded) breakdown or let out a tiny yelp, it hits you. Hard. This is coupled by the fact that (almost) the whole movie is filmed from stationary cameras located inside the vessel. Full disclosure: We weren't thrilled when we first heard that this was a "found footage"-style picture. Fortunately the repetitive camera angles give Europa Report a hint of that Hollywood credibility, and also stress the monotonous existence aboard this ship.
We haven't seen anything like Europa Report in a very long time — and while it's definitely not free of blunders, it's a welcomed change to see space travel handled in a serious manner and still maintain the science fiction elements of suspense and exploration. This film starring District 9's Sharlto Copley is definitely worth checking out when it's released on June 27th on VOD and in theaters Aug 2nd.
