NASA astronaut Jonny Kim recently shared delightful behind-the-scenes shots of the International Space Station (ISS) crew enjoying a movie night, showcasing a fun and relaxing atmosphere amidst their demanding work schedule. However, akin to how many airline passengers opt out of watching films like Alive, Flight, and Fearless during flights, it’s reasonable to assume that the ISS crew might also want to avoid certain films that could provoke unease. Here’s a look at six movies the crew might want to skip in future screenings—and one film that is sure to lift their spirits.
Gravity (2013)
Gravity depicts astronauts Ryan Stone (Sandra Bullock) and Matt Kowalski (George Clooney) stranded in low-Earth orbit after their spacecraft is devastated by debris. As they grapple with limited resources and lost communication, they must navigate the vastness of space alone. The film effectively conveys themes of isolation and dread, which could lead to sleepless nights for ISS astronauts contemplating their own vulnerabilities in the orbiting research hub.
Life (2017)
Set aboard an ISS-like vessel, Life follows a crew studying a Martian sample that evolves into a hostile organism. The narrative heavily leans on the horror of being enclosed with a menacing lifeform, escalating their fight for survival. This palpable sense of claustrophobia might compel astronaut Kim and his colleagues to think twice before selecting this film for their next movie night.
Apollo 13 (1995)
Apollo 13, a harrowing recount of the famous 1970 mission, portrays a NASA crew’s plight following an oxygen tank explosion that endangers their lives. The film’s relentless tension stemming from their damaged spacecraft, dwindling supplies, and frantic efforts to return home could be anxiety-inducing for astronauts, heightening their awareness of equipment safety protocols during their own voyage.
Alien (1979)
A hallmark of the space horror genre, Alien chronicles a crew responding to a distress signal only to unwittingly bring a lethal lifeform on board. The claustrophobic setting and suspenseful hunt create an extremely intense atmosphere, likely too horrific for the ISS crew, who already live and work in enclosed spaces while orbiting Earth.
The Cloverfield Paradox (2018)
This sci-fi thriller presents the chaos that ensues when a crew inadvertently disrupts space-time, resulting in surreal phenomena. The sense of paranoia and danger could resonate in a unsettling way for ISS astronauts navigating their own complex reality. However, the film’s low Rotten Tomatoes rating (22%) itself serves as a cautionary sign for movie selection.
Europa Report (2013)
Europa Report offers a more realistic portrayal of space exploration as a crew ventures to Jupiter’s moon to search for life. Its tense atmosphere and focus on the emotional challenges faced by the astronauts may resonate too deeply for those currently aboard the ISS, making it another potential misstep for their entertainment lineup.
For a more lighthearted film that avoids the pitfalls of thrillers, the crew might find solace in the comedy Galaxy Quest, a film that celebrates teamwork and humor.
Galaxy Quest (1999)
Galaxy Quest features the cast of a fictitious TV show who are mistaken for real astronauts by aliens seeking assistance. Their cluelessness gives way to an authentic space adventure, underlining the theme of camaraderie in the cosmos. With its lighthearted spirit, Galaxy Quest not only provides laughter but also reinforces the idea that even in space, a shared sense of humor can help ease the tension of life aboard the ISS.
For further insights into the ISS crew’s movie night, check the original article Here.
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