Solaris User Reviews

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I liked Solaris. I had seen some scenes from the film before watching it fully, so I essentially knew what to expect and knew what was to come, but, nonetheless, upon complete viewing, Soderberg’s version of Lem’s novel (which I have not read) is more than satisfactory. Contained within is superb dialogue and acting, superb set design and direction, and superb sound, among other things, all of which are superb.

It is a very good film. I feel that it’s too easy to important spoil details by discussing even the most menial of points. Rather than do that, there are, I think, three things in the film that need to be highlighted.

George Clooney plays fantastically. The role, I would assume, is much more difficult to execute than it seems. Clooney brings life to the character and makes it his own. Also of note is Viola Davis, who plays the ship’s captain Gordon. Her fierce direction of the role is also excellent.

The soundtrack is very notable. It is moody, eclectic, and totally suitable to the somber tones of the film. Moreover, it is quite addicting. It seems to me that the music would be perfect as ambient music in the background for whatever purpose – similar to Brian Eno’s ambient works. Of all the things I like about Solaris, the music is the foremost thing that comes to mind.

Finally, Solaris, the sentient planet itself, is beautifully rendered. It appears to be done through computer generated graphics, but amazingly, it doesn’t show in the least, certainly not in the DVD print I watched. If it is CG, it is a textbook example of how to make widespread but unobtrusive use of such a technique.

I am no fan of science fiction, but Solaris is something special. I highly recommend it.