Gravity (2013) - 10 stars out of 10

Gravity (2013) - 10 stars out of 10 

How do you write a movie review for something that is more than just a movie?  “Gravity” is a cinematic experience that is unlike any other film out there.  Its artistic approach to space as a relentlessly malicious antagonist puts the film into a league of its own.  Even “Apollo 13” was man vs. machine but this film is purely man vs. space.  It will unquestionably win the Oscar for Best Visual Effects and yet, “Gravity” goes far beyond its stunning depictions of Earth and space.  When Sandra Bullock won her Oscar for “The Blindside,” it seemed to be the pinnacle of her career but she somehow manages to supersede that performance with this one-woman-show.  The only thing that it can be compared to is Tom Hanks’ performance in “Castaway,” except that this film thrives on heart-pounding tension instead of drama.  The concept may seem gimmicky but it goes far beyond the expected with a subtle script that reveals an emotional layer to develop the main character.  I never expected to cry at this movie, let alone two times!  The first time was a result of Bullock’s acting, the second time was directly tied to Steven Price’s musical score which is subtle (and nearly non-existent) in the space sequences but heroic and overwhelming at all of the right times.  Alfonso Cuarón really wrote/directed/produced a blockbuster with this irresistible sci-fi space film.  George Clooney must also be included in any discussion of this film.  His character’s personality eventually becomes a key factor in the furthering of the plot and, though I won’t give anything away, what seemed at first like insanity on the part of the script writers were at first insane eventually grows into the genius in the use of his character’s fate.  You can kiss your childhood dream of travelling to space goodbye when you see the terror that exists in this breathless, soundless place.  It must be seen in 3D to gather the whole experience but I simply cannot wait to see it again.  And again.  And again.  My heart is pounding just thinking about “Gravity.”