Moon is a thing of beauty to watch unfold. It’s a simple concept executed so brilliantly that you’d be amazed to find out its director Duncan Jones’ first feature. He’s created one of the most unique films in a good while and maybe the best science fiction film of the year. Unfortunately it’s one of those films that’s tough to discuss without revealing it’s twist. On the same token, the movie doesn’t rely on it’s twist to make or break it as it reveals it’s biggest secret fairly early and becomes a character study.

The technology in Moon isn’t flashy or chic. Instead it sticks to something George Lucas lost with his prequels and creates believable gizmos, gadgets and space stations. Where most might have made GERTY (the on board robot) a giant floating sphere with a flashing eye, Jones chooses to make it a bulky machine that runs on a track. GERTY also is equipped with an on-board camera and keyboard with post it notes stuck on his front and back. The space station itself appears as one that’s seen many years and shows subtle signs of wear and tear. The screens, keyboards and other gear inside the station aren’t tables you tap your fingers on but tactile keyboards and widescreen displays still present. Moon is set in our future yes, but it’s a future that could be very real. In any case, you have to appreciate the level of detail and thinking Jones and his crew went with the production design. Bottom line, Lunar Industries is only one or two steps away from being a very real company thanks in large part to this film crew’s attention to detail and thought.

Of course Moon wouldn’t be anything without an outstanding lead and Sam Rockwell more than answers the call. Granted this phrase gets tossed around a lot, but Rockwell deserves a nomination for Best Actor at the Oscars, more so than a certain clown-clad actor did. It’s a challenging role that demands not only the actor to be several different emotions but the film literally rests on his shoulders. Rockwell makes it seamless as if this is just another day at the office for him. Literally he is the film as he basically interacts with only television screens. Yet there’s emotion in his eyes that most actors would have fumbled if given the chance. Rockwell’s performance and Jones’ direction are accompanied by a brilliant score from Clint Mansell. Mansell engulfs you into this world with a catchy tune that will stay with you long after you’ve left the theater. The tunes hit the right beats and are never overused or overblown.

Moon is a film that you’ll need a day or two to think on after you’ve seen it which isn’t a bad thing. Upon reflecting on Jones’ piece, one should discover what a brilliant, unique, and terrific film they were treated to. The film is influenced by many a sci-fi films, even the one everyone takes from 2001: A Space Odyssey. However it is coy about it’s references and doesn’t feel like Jones just watched Kubrick’s masterpiece and said “Let’s make a movie!” Moon is a prime example of what happens when all the great elements of filmmaking stitch together a truly great picture. Moon unfortunately won’t have the wide appeal of a dumber “science fiction” film but those remotely interested should give it a chance and experience it’s greatness.

Rating: ★★★★½