Moon Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Lonely astronaut discovers the company he works for has a weird HR policy involving endless do-overs.

🍿 Moon: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Isolation on the Lunar Base

Sam Bell is nearing the end of his three-year contract as the sole employee of Lunar Industries on a lunar base. His job is to oversee the mining of Helium-3, a crucial energy source for Earth. Sam’s only companion is GERTY, an AI with a distinct personality displayed through emoticons. He longs to return to his wife, Tess, and daughter, Eve, on Earth.

The Accident and Discovery

As his contract nears its end, Sam begins experiencing hallucinations, leading to an accident while driving a rover to a harvester. He awakens in the base’s infirmary with no memory of the crash. GERTY informs him of a rescue team on its way. However, Sam becomes suspicious due to communication inconsistencies. Investigating the crash site, he discovers another Sam Bell.

The Truth Revealed

The two Sams confront each other and eventually coerce GERTY into revealing a shocking truth: they are both clones of the original Sam Bell. They learn that Lunar Industries is using clones to avoid the cost of human astronauts and that their memories are implants. This revelation shatters their understanding of their identities and purpose. They discover hundreds of hibernating clones.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Sam Bell (Sam Rockwell): A lunar astronaut nearing the end of his three-year contract, who discovers he is one of many clones used by a corporation for cheap labor.
• GERTY (Kevin Spacey): The AI assistant at the lunar base, programmed to care for Sam, but ultimately complicit in the corporation’s unethical practices.
• Tess Bell (Dominique McElligott): Sam’s wife, whose recorded messages provide a connection to Earth, but conceal a painful truth about Sam’s origins.
• Eve (Kaya Scodelario): Sam’s daughter, whose brief contact with a clone reveals the passage of time and the original Sam’s fate.
• Lunar Industries (Representative) (Unspecified): The faceless corporation exploiting clones for helium-3 mining on the moon and prioritizing profits above ethics.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• GERTY: “I am here to help.” – GERTY’s often-repeated phrase, highlighting its programmed helpfulness and slightly unsettling detachment.
• Sam Bell: “We’re not programmed. We’re people, right?” – Sam desperately seeks to assert his humanity and individuality in the face of his manufactured existence.
• Sam Bell: “I’m going home.” – Recurring throughout the film, representing Sam’s driving desire and ultimate goal.
• Sam Bell: “Is there a problem, GERTY?” – Sam questions GERTY as he begins to distrust the seemingly helpful AI, sensing something is amiss.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $5,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $5,010,163
• Worldwide Gross: $9,760,107

💥 Moon Reviews

Personal Review

I was completely blown away by Moon. Sam Rockwell’s performance is incredible – he manages to make you feel for both versions of Sam. The scene where he talks to his daughter and realizes the truth is heartbreaking. I love how it explores these big philosophical ideas in such a contained, intimate way. Plus, GERTY’s smiley faces made me laugh, even amidst all the tension and loneliness.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of thought-provoking science fiction”
  • “Viewers interested in themes of identity and corporate ethics”
  • “Those who appreciate independent films with strong performances”
  • “Those who like movies that explore the human condition in isolated environments”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Brief nudity”
  • “Some disturbing images”
  • “Thematic elements related to cloning and existential crisis”

Professional Reviews

• The Guardian: “Duncan Jones delivers a confident and stylish debut. Sam Rockwell shines in a demanding dual role, exploring themes of isolation and corporate ethics with surprising depth. A must-see for fans of intelligent science fiction.
• Empire Magazine: “Moon is a triumph of low-budget filmmaking. Rockwell’s performance is mesmerizing, and the film’s exploration of identity and memory is both profound and gripping. A modern sci-fi classic.
• The New York Times: “A haunting and thought-provoking film that lingers long after the credits roll. Sam Rockwell gives a career-defining performance, and Duncan Jones proves himself a visionary director. Moon is a smart sci-fi that doesn’t rely on special effects.

Audience Reactions

Sam Rockwell’s acting was phenomenal, especially portraying two distinct characters.: Viewers were captivated by Rockwell’s ability to convey isolation and emotional turmoil.

The film’s exploration of identity and corporate ethics resonated deeply with audiences.: Many appreciated the film’s thought-provoking themes and subtle storytelling.

GERTY, the AI, was a standout character with its unique design and voice acting.: Kevin Spacey’s voice work added humor and depth to the film’s overall atmosphere.

Overall Consensus: Moon is a critically acclaimed science fiction film praised for its thought-provoking themes, Sam Rockwell’s outstanding performance, and its ability to create a compelling narrative on a limited budget.

Awards

1. BAFTA Awards (Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer)- 2010

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Director Duncan Jones originally intended for Sam Rockwell to play a different role in a later film, ‘Mute,’ but wrote ‘Moon’ specifically for him after discussing Rockwell’s interest in blue-collar sci-fi characters.”
• “The film relies heavily on practical effects and miniatures, a deliberate choice by Duncan Jones to emulate the feel of classic science fiction films and to minimize the use of CGI.”
• “Kevin Spacey voiced GERTY, the AI, providing a calm and somewhat comforting presence that contrasts with the isolation and existential crisis experienced by Sam Bell.”

🖥️ How to Watch Moon?

Moon is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it on streaming services like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu. Additionally, it is often available for rent or purchase on these platforms. Check your local listings for availability.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Moon, you might like these similar films:

• 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968): Shares a similar sense of isolation in space and philosophical exploration of humanity and artificial intelligence.
• Solaris (1972): Explores themes of identity, memory, and the psychological effects of isolation in a space setting.
• Blade Runner (1982): Raises ethical questions about artificial beings, identity, and the value of life in a dystopian future.
• Arrival (2016): Similar thoughtfulness. Explores big questions. Challenges you to think differently about life.

🛒 Moon Related Products

• Moon (Limited Edition Blu-ray): A must-have for fans, this limited-edition Blu-ray features exclusive behind-the-scenes content, director’s commentary, and collectible packaging. The high-definition transfer enhances the film’s visuals, making it a stunning addition to any sci-fi collection.
• Moon: GERTY 3000 Replica Model Kit: Build your own GERTY 3000! This detailed model kit lets you recreate the iconic AI from the film. Perfect for display, it’s a great way to show your love for Moon’s unique design and storytelling.
• Moon (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) Vinyl: Immerse yourself in the haunting atmosphere of Moon with Clint Mansell’s evocative score on vinyl. This beautifully pressed record features the complete soundtrack, perfect for audiophiles and collectors alike.
• Moon: Lunar Industries T-Shirt: Show your support for Lunar Industries with this stylish t-shirt. Featuring the company logo and a sleek design, it’s a subtle nod to the film’s themes of corporate ambition and the future of energy.

🎧 Soundtrack

Moon features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Welcome to Lunar Industries” – performed by Clint Mansell
• “Memories” – performed by Clint Mansell
• “The Chemical Brothers – Chemical Beats” – performed by The Chemical Brothers

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Making the moon

Ever wondered how the visually captivating moon in the movie was created? Watch this short clip for a behind-the-scenes look at the design and creation process.

Why Does It Look Like the Moon is Following Us?

Have you ever noticed that the moon seems to follow you as you walk? This video offers a fascinating explanation for this common observation.

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