Gravity - A

Rated PG-13, 91 minutes

Stunning "Gravity" is a gripping, intense and lovely ride

Sandra Bullock

If you're thinking about becoming an astronaut, the riveting new space drama directed by Alfonso Cuaron ("Children of Men") and starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney is a strong argument against it, but it has enough heart-pounding thrills to also propel you into space. Bullock is Dr. Ryan Stone, a brilliant medical engineer on her first shuttle mission, with veteran astronaut Matt Kowalsky (Clooney). But on a seemingly routine spacewalk, disaster strikes. The shuttle is destroyed, leaving Stone and Kowalsky completely alone. A rare film in which critics and audiences will both agree, the vivid "Gravity" is a sensational film on several different levels. Above all, it's a dazzling technological triumph from Cuaron, who directed, edited and co-wrote the film with his son Jonas. From the amazing, first-rate visuals to the beautiful photography by Oscar-nominated Emmanuel Lubezki (used frequently by Cuaron and Terrence Malick), it's a lovely work of art which can be appreciated by both cinema enthusiasts and the average moviegoer; you will gaze in wonder while also being terrified. There are moments where the 3D is also well-utilized, from flying debris to some tears streaming from Bullock's face right into the audience. Second, it's an incredibly moving, accessible personal story and finely acted by both Clooney, whose swaggerish astronaut role is a supporting one, and especially by Bullock, who carries the film on her shoulders in one of her most agonizingly human performances to date. Though the film's minimal cast members (listen for a familiar voice, that of "Apollo 13's" Ed Harris, as Mission Control, whose casting is probably intentional here) and the space venture plot may admittedly have limited appeal, Clooney, Bullock and Cuaron (the latter two of whom should earn an armload of accolades for this film) carry "Gravity" to new heights, engaging the audience from the first frame. Third, it's an astonishing, gripping action film with rarely a dull moment, particularly in its breathless final act. For those thinking this is another stale, dreamy science-fiction film or about people simply floating in space, think again. The efficient "Gravity" is a powerhouse film that will leave you both satisfied and exhausted; it's a stunning emotional and technological achievement. One of the best films of the year and my favorite film of 2013 thus far.

Wes's Grade: A