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fleetfootmikeThe SciFi Channel in the UK put on one of my two favourite movies last night, Apollo 13. (The other, for those who care, is The Princess Bride).
Why do I like it so much?
First and foremost, Jim Lovell was one of my heroes as a kid. I'm just (only just) old enough to remember him flying with Apollo 8, dimly remember the moon landings, but most definitely remember Apollo 13.
Secondly, something that was brought home to me watching it last night, the music and pacing of the movie just plain work so well for me. Thei lquid trumpet theme that drifts through the movie is wonderful, and the places where there is NO music, nothing at all except the actors voices, are beautifully done.
Thirdly, the effects. NO stock footage of Apollo launches was used (one giveaway - the shot from the top of the launch tower immediately prior to launch shows a full carpark, which was far too close to be in use during a launch).
Last but by no means least: the cast. Set aside Hanks, Paxton, Bacon and Sinise, who do stoic American Heroes to perfection, and focus on the supporting cast. Ed Harris (Flight Director Gene Kranz) is deserving of his Oscar nomination, not just for what he says, but the things he *doesn't* say, the mannerisms, the relief as he sags into his seat when Apollo 13 re-enters safely. The Mission Control team as a whole are perfect, characters and individuals rather than just "Mision Control Tech #4".
Not surprisingly, the movie's two Oscars were for editing and effects.
I love this movie.
Why do I like it so much?
First and foremost, Jim Lovell was one of my heroes as a kid. I'm just (only just) old enough to remember him flying with Apollo 8, dimly remember the moon landings, but most definitely remember Apollo 13.
Secondly, something that was brought home to me watching it last night, the music and pacing of the movie just plain work so well for me. Thei lquid trumpet theme that drifts through the movie is wonderful, and the places where there is NO music, nothing at all except the actors voices, are beautifully done.
Thirdly, the effects. NO stock footage of Apollo launches was used (one giveaway - the shot from the top of the launch tower immediately prior to launch shows a full carpark, which was far too close to be in use during a launch).
Last but by no means least: the cast. Set aside Hanks, Paxton, Bacon and Sinise, who do stoic American Heroes to perfection, and focus on the supporting cast. Ed Harris (Flight Director Gene Kranz) is deserving of his Oscar nomination, not just for what he says, but the things he *doesn't* say, the mannerisms, the relief as he sags into his seat when Apollo 13 re-enters safely. The Mission Control team as a whole are perfect, characters and individuals rather than just "Mision Control Tech #4".
Not surprisingly, the movie's two Oscars were for editing and effects.
I love this movie.
