Screen scenes

Solaris Starring George Clooney, Natascha McElhone
Directed by Steven Soderbergh

Steven Soderbergh (“Traffic,” “Full
Frontal”) and George Clooney team up yet again for this
supposedly romantic sci-fi film. “Solaris” stars
Clooney as Dr. Chris Kelvin, a lonely widower summoned by an old
friend to figure out what’s going on aboard a spaceship
observing the title planet. Kelvin discovers corpses, disgruntled
crew members, and most importantly, his wife, Rheya, back from the
dead. Or is she? What is most fascinating about
“Solaris” is its composure and patience. In an age
where movies go desperately faster and louder in order to keep the
audience’s attention, “Solaris” does just the
opposite. It maintains a steady pace and uses sound sparingly while
still keeping the story engaging and suspenseful. Clooney is in top
form as Dr. Kelvin. His portrayal of a man whose reason cannot
match his longing for redemption is highly convincing. However, his
tumultuous relationship with Rheya doesn’t ring true, lacking
the passion needed to validate his struggle on the planet Solaris.
By the film’s end, “Solaris” ends up feeling
sterile and distant, like the ship. For all its fascinating musings
on life, morality and God (e.g. “There are no answers, only
choices”), for all the solid performances, and for all of
Soderbergh’s skillful multitasking, it’s a shame none
of it really lingers once the credits roll. But
“Solaris” is still highly enjoyable and captivating,
while it lasts. -Paul Mendoza