Aeronauts, Flying High Over My Expectations

During my time in isolation during our world Covid-19 crisis I have been browsing new media to watch and inspire me to write. After a few misfires of less than quality entertainment I stumbled upon a fantastical and fresh production on Amazon Prime that came out some months back called, “The Aeronauts”.

It seemed to have arrived out of nowhere and yet suddenly it was everywhere so I decided to treat my eyes to something based in our history. I have to say I have not felt so strongly about recommending a piece of cinema like this since the likes of sci-fi blockbuster Interstellar by director Christopher Nolan many years ago.

''In 1862 headstrong scientist James Glaisher and wealthy young widow Amelia Wren mounta balloon expedition to fly higher than anyone in history. As their perilous ascent reduces their chances of survival, the unlikely duo soon discover things about themselves -- and each other -- that help both of them find their place in the world.''

The film centres around the above synopsis, incorporating real life historical events but changing certain keys aspects for narrative and entertainment purposes. The film stars Eddie Redmayne and Felicity Jones as the main protagonists, which you can also see them in other popular movies such as ''The Theory Of Everything'' and ''Rogue One'', both amazing actors in their own right who have come together to bring this project to life.

The director Tom Harper known for past projects like ''The Woman In Black 2: Angel Of Death'' and ''Wild Rose'' took the helm for this movie. He is a BAFTA nominated British director of cinema and TV with a credible resume of projects under his belt seems to have been the perfect fit to help make Aeronauts what it became, a near masterpiece.

The work of cinematography, special FX and music woven throughout the 1 hour and 40 minute run time will leave you in awe of the talent of modern movie making. Its a treat for your eyes, ears and everything other sense you can think of, at one point I even felt a sensation of vertigo as the story progressed into the dramatic finale.

What I took away from Aeronauts was the human sense of adventure, wanting to explore and know more about the world we live in. The sense of unknown is something we crave to understand and is inherently built into our human nature. The film explores this as its main theme while interlacing key plot and story beats of loss, determination and love to make you care for Eddie & Felicities characters, connecting you to the cast in a deep way.

Overall I would give this movie a solid high 8/10, the story, characters, music and visuals are striking, memorable while also leaving me pondering the movies themes for hours after the credits had rolled.

You can see it for yourself over on Amazon Prime.

(Written & Edited By John Perry)