Review by Jon Donnis
"I.S.S." presents an intriguing premise set against the backdrop of escalating tensions on Earth, as astronauts aboard the International Space Station find themselves entangled in a struggle for control amidst a global crisis. Director Gabriela Cowperthwaite orchestrates a tense atmosphere, amplified by stellar performances from the cast, particularly Ariana DeBose's portrayal of Dr. Kira Foster.
In the near future, aboard the International Space Station, tensions escalate dramatically as a global conflict erupts on Earth. Caught in the turmoil, American and Russian astronauts find themselves thrust into a high-stakes struggle when they receive directives from their respective governments: seize control of the station at all costs.
The film's first half excels in building suspense and exploring the dynamics among the multinational crew, with captivating space visuals adding to the immersive experience. However, the narrative falters in the second half due to inconsistent writing, marked by illogical character decisions and an overdose of plot twists that strain credibility. Additionally, some weightlessness effects appear poorly executed, detracting from the overall immersion.
While "I.S.S." tackles themes of fear, duty, betrayal, and revenge, its descent into clichés and pandering to certain ideologies undermines its potential. The infusion of "woke" elements feels forced and detracts from the story's coherence, while the astronauts' inexplicable lapses in judgment detract from their credibility as intelligent professionals.
Despite its flaws, "I.S.S." manages to sustain interest throughout its runtime, albeit with diminishing returns. Clocking in at a concise length, it offers moments of tension and intrigue, though its lackluster conclusion may leave some viewers disappointed.
Overall, "I.S.S." earns a modest rating of 6 out of 10, buoyed by its strong start and DeBose's compelling performance, but ultimately hampered by narrative shortcomings and questionable creative choices.
At cinemas now.
Coming soon to Apple TV at https://apple.co/3SAsgef
