Stowaway (2021)

Review Team

4/5

Stowaway, directed by Joe Penna, is a tight and thought-provoking science fiction film that deftly explores the moral complexities of survival in space. The narrative centres on a trio of astronauts whose mission to Mars is jeopardised when they discover an uninvited stowaway. The performances, part ... Show more >> Stowaway, directed by Joe Penna, is a tight and thought-provoking science fiction film that deftly explores the moral complexities of survival in space. The narrative centres on a trio of astronauts whose mission to Mars is jeopardised when they discover an uninvited stowaway. The performances, particularly from Anna Kendrick and Daniel Dae Kim, are compelling, effectively conveying the desperation and ethical dilemmas that arise as resources dwindle. Penna's direction keeps the tension palpable, utilising the confined space of the spacecraft to magnify the characters' emotional struggles. The film's conclusion is both haunting and poignant, making audiences ponder the true cost of survival. While it may not be action-packed, Stowaway offers a rich exploration of human nature and the choices we face in dire situations, making it a worthy watch for those intrigued by moral quandaries and psychological drama. Show less

Editor Team

3/5

Stowaway is an intriguing concept that, while it starts strong, sometimes feels like it doesn't quite soar as high as it could. The premise is solid: three astronauts on a mission to Mars suddenly find themselves in a life-or-death situation when a stowaway appears. The performances are commendable, ... Show more >> Stowaway is an intriguing concept that, while it starts strong, sometimes feels like it doesn't quite soar as high as it could. The premise is solid: three astronauts on a mission to Mars suddenly find themselves in a life-or-death situation when a stowaway appears. The performances are commendable, especially Anna Kendrick's, who brings a relatable vulnerability to her role. However, the film's pacing can drag, and at times it feels overly focused on the ethical dilemmas rather than ramping up the suspense. While the emotional weight is there, the film could have benefited from a more dynamic narrative to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. That said, if you're in the mood for a character-driven drama with a sci-fi backdrop, Stowaway is still worth a watch, just be prepared for a slower burn. Show less