In the vein of classic space thrillers like “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “The Planet of the Apes,” the new film “Slingshot” explores the unpredictable nature of cryogenic sleep in space travel. Directed by Mikael Håfström and written by R. Scott Adams and Nathan Parker, the film follows astronaut John (Casey Affleck) and his crew, including Nash (Tomer Capone) and Capt. Franks (Laurence Fishburne), on a mission aboard the Odyssey-1 spacecraft to Saturn’s moon Titan. Their goal: to find a renewable energy source to save a deteriorating Earth.
The crew must perform a “slingshot” maneuver around Jupiter and enter cryo-sleep periodically. However, when an unknown object damages the spacecraft, tension escalates. Nash becomes unhinged, demanding a return to Earth, while John experiences hallucinations and voices. Capt. Franks remains eerily composed, adding to the crew’s mounting paranoia.
Håfström utilizes jump scares and rapid cuts to evoke a sense of imminent danger, interweaving present-day chaos with flashbacks on Earth. The story delves into John’s past, revealing his isolation and his budding relationship with Zoe (Emily Beecham), a spacecraft designer. The contrast between their tender moments and the spacecraft’s turmoil keeps viewers on edge, questioning reality versus delusion.
“Slingshot” promises a gripping conclusion that invites audiences to experience the ultimate twist for themselves. The film, running 109 minutes and rated R for language and violence, opens Thursday at local theaters.
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