Adam Sandler is known for his comedic roles in films like Happy Gilmore, The Wedding Singer, and Uncut Gems. But in his latest venture, he takes on a more serious and challenging role as a lonely astronaut in Netflix’s Spaceman.
Based on Jaroslav Kalfař’s novel Spaceman of Bohemia, the film follows Jakub Prochazka, a Czech astronaut, on a solo mission to investigate a mysterious cloud near Earth. Along the way, he encounters an alien creature, struggles with his past and his marriage, and reflects on his place in the universe.
Directed by Johan Renck, who also helmed the acclaimed miniseries Chernobyl, and featuring a stellar cast that includes Carey Mulligan, Paul Dano, and Kunal Nayyar, Spaceman is a captivating and poignant exploration of loneliness, friendship, and the final frontier.
A Departure from Sandler’s Usual Roles
One of the most striking aspects of Spaceman is the contrast between Sandler’s typical roles and his performance as Jakub. Adam Sandler is best known for his comedic and often bombastic characters, who rely on physical humour, exaggerated expressions, and outrageous situations to elicit laughs.
However, in Spaceman, Adam Sandler delivers a nuanced and subtle performance, portraying a man who is isolated, conflicted, and vulnerable. He conveys Jakub’s emotions and thoughts through his voice, his eyes, and his body language, rather than through dialogue or action. He also shows his range and versatility, as he switches from moments of humour and absurdity to moments of drama and intensity.
Sandler’s performance has received praise from critics and audiences alike, who have compared it to his other serious roles in films like Punch-Drunk Love and The Meyerowitz Stories. Some have even suggested that he could be a contender for an Oscar nomination.
A Blend of Melancholy and Absurdity
Another notable aspect of Spaceman is the balance between melancholy and absurdity, which creates a unique tone and mood for the film. The film deals with themes of loneliness, existentialism, and mortality, as Jakub faces the vastness of space, the uncertainty of his mission, and the fragility of his life.
However, the film also injects moments of humour and whimsy, especially through the interaction between Jakub and the alien creature, voiced by Paul Dano. The creature, which Jakub names Hanuš, is a colourful and shape-shifting being who claims to be an ancient and wise entity but also displays curiosity and naivety about human culture and history.
The dynamic between Jakub and Hanuš is both hilarious and touching, as they form an unlikely bond and friendship. They share stories, jokes, and secrets, and they help each other cope with their loneliness and fears. They also provide contrast and commentary on each other’s worlds as they question and challenge each other’s beliefs and values.
A Bold Narrative Experiment
Spaceman is not a conventional or predictable film, but rather a bold narrative experiment that mixes genres, styles, and themes. The film is part sci-fi, part drama, part comedy, and part fantasy, and it does not follow a linear or straightforward plot. Instead, it jumps between different timelines, locations, and perspectives as it explores Jakub’s past, present, and future.
The film also incorporates elements of surrealism, symbolism, and allegory, as it uses the cloud, the creature, and the space mission as metaphors for Jakub’s inner journey and personal growth. The film invites the viewer to interpret and question the meaning and reality of what they see and to reflect on their own lives and choices.
Spaceman is not a film for everyone, as some may find it too slow, too dark, or too confusing. However, for those who appreciate a film that challenges and surprises them, Spaceman is a rewarding and memorable experience that showcases Adam Sandler’s talent and potential as an actor.
You might also like: