10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Ad Astra (2019)

Description: '2001: A Space Odyssey' and 'Ad Astra' share a contemplative, visually stunning approach to space exploration. Both films explore themes of human evolution, artificial intelligence, and the mysteries of the cosmos. The deliberate pacing and emphasis on visual storytelling over dialogue are key similarities.

Fact: Stanley Kubrick collaborated with Arthur C. Clarke on the screenplay and novel simultaneously. The film's special effects were groundbreaking for their time and still hold up today. The iconic 'Dawn of Man' sequence was shot in a quarry in England.

Description: Both 'Solaris' and 'Ad Astra' are meditative science fiction films that explore the psychological effects of space travel. Each film delves into themes of memory, loss, and the nature of human relationships. The slow, introspective pacing and emphasis on emotional depth over action are shared traits.

Fact: Andrei Tarkovsky directed the film as a response to what he saw as the superficiality of American science fiction. The film is based on the novel by Stanisław Lem, who was critical of Tarkovsky's adaptation. The lengthy driving sequence at the beginning was a deliberate choice to set the film's contemplative tone.

Description: 'Contact' and 'Ad Astra' both grapple with humanity's place in the universe and the search for meaning beyond Earth. Each film features a protagonist driven by personal loss and a deep curiosity about the cosmos. The blend of scientific rigor and emotional storytelling is a key similarity.

Fact: The film is based on the novel by Carl Sagan, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Jodie Foster prepared for her role by visiting NASA and meeting with astronomers. The film's depiction of the Vega system was based on actual astronomical data.

Description: Both 'Sunshine' and 'Ad Astra' involve perilous missions to save humanity, with crews facing existential threats in deep space. The films share a blend of hard science fiction and philosophical questions about human nature. The visual style of 'Sunshine', with its intense sunlight and claustrophobic spacecraft, mirrors the aesthetic of 'Ad Astra'.

Fact: Danny Boyle directed the film, known for his diverse filmography including 'Trainspotting' and 'Slumdog Millionaire'. The film's science advisor was Dr. Brian Cox, a renowned physicist. The soundtrack was composed by John Murphy and features the iconic track 'Adagio in D Minor'.

Description: Similar to 'Ad Astra', 'Interstellar' explores deep space travel and the psychological toll it takes on astronauts. Both films blend hard science fiction with emotional storytelling, focusing on the protagonist's personal journey and their relationship with family. The visual aesthetics of space in both movies are breathtaking and grounded in scientific accuracy.

Fact: Christopher Nolan consulted with physicist Kip Thorne to ensure the film's scientific accuracy, especially regarding black holes. The film's soundtrack by Hans Zimmer features a prominent use of the organ, adding a unique and haunting quality. The cornfield scenes were actually grown by the production team over several months.

Description: 'Moon' and 'Ad Astra' both delve into the psychological effects of prolonged isolation in space. Each film features a protagonist grappling with their identity and purpose while cut off from humanity. The minimalist settings and introspective tone are key similarities.

Fact: Duncan Jones, David Bowie's son, directed the film. The film was made on a modest budget of $5 million but received critical acclaim. Sam Rockwell's performance was largely a one-man show, with limited interaction with other actors.

Description: 'First Man' and 'Ad Astra' both explore the personal sacrifices and emotional toll of space exploration. Each film portrays its protagonist as a complex, flawed individual rather than a traditional hero. The realistic depiction of space travel and the focus on the protagonist's inner journey are key similarities.

Fact: The film is based on the biography of Neil Armstrong by James R. Hansen. Damien Chazelle, known for 'La La Land', directed the film. The lunar landing sequence was shot using IMAX cameras for maximum impact.

Description: 'Gravity' shares with 'Ad Astra' a focus on the visceral, terrifying experience of being alone in space. Both films use stunning visuals to create a sense of immersion and tension. The protagonists in both movies must confront their inner demons while fighting for survival in the unforgiving void of space.

Fact: Sandra Bullock spent months training for her role, including underwater simulations to mimic zero gravity. The film's opening shot is a 13-minute continuous take, a technical marvel. Alfonso Cuarón won the Academy Award for Best Director for his work on the film.

Description: Like 'Ad Astra', 'Arrival' combines science fiction with deep emotional and philosophical themes. Both films explore communication and understanding in the face of the unknown, though 'Arrival' focuses on extraterrestrial contact. The contemplative pacing and emphasis on the protagonist's personal journey are shared traits.

Fact: The film is based on the short story 'Story of Your Life' by Ted Chiang. Director Denis Villeneuve worked closely with linguists to create the alien language. The film's non-linear narrative structure was a deliberate choice to mirror the aliens' perception of time.

Description: Like 'Ad Astra', 'The Martian' focuses on the resilience and ingenuity of an astronaut stranded in space. Both films highlight the isolation and psychological challenges of space exploration, though 'The Martian' has a more optimistic tone. The scientific realism and attention to detail in both films make the space settings feel authentic.

Fact: Matt Damon prepared for his role by speaking with NASA astronauts and scientists. The film's depiction of Mars was based on real images from NASA's Mars rovers. Ridley Scott directed the film, marking his return to science fiction after 'Alien' and 'Blade Runner'.