Michael's Movie Grade: B-
Some clever touches help elevate what in many ways is a typical rom-com.
Though in many ways this is another formulaic romantic comedy, its setting and how it combines some real-life history of the moon landing with a fictional story makes it a fun time at the movies. This movie plays with many aspects of the moon landing for satirical effect. However, what makes it work is that underneath all these satirical moments, the filmmakers obviously have the utmost respect for the men and woman, who made such a feat possible. In fact, underneath all the comedy and romance there are few surpassingly touching scenes about the astronauts that didn't make it. These scenes pulled at my heartstrings in a way I didn't see coming. Some of the humor can fall flat, but the jokes that work are truly funny. There were actually sometimes watching this that I laughed out loud. This is also a very handsome looking movie that uses its 1960's setting to its full advantage.
The two main characters here are very likable. We grow to care about them and what they care about. They are also both very well played by Channing Tatum and Scarlett Johansson, who both bring a charisma to these characters. However, the chemistry between them is not as strong as it should be in a rom-com.
Despite its unique setting, this movie very much follows the conventions of your typical rom-com. Because of this it is very easy to see what will happen next in any given scene. This film is also quite a bit longer than it needs to be and there are times in the middle section where it can drag a little.
This rom-com may not be a new classic for the genre but it does provide a fun time at the movies. And that is exactly what people want from a film like this.
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