Relentless Pursuit of the Cosmic Dream

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MOVIE REVIEW
Space Cadet
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Genre: Comedy
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 50m
Director(s): Liz W. Garcia
Writer(s): Liz W. Garcia
Cast: Emma Roberts, Tom Hopper, Poppy Liu and Gabrielle Union, Kuhoo Verma, Desi Lydic, Sebastián Yatra, Yasha Jackson, Andrew Call, Troy Iwata, Josephine Huang, Dave Foley, Sam Robards, Joshua Harto
Where To Watch: coming to Prime Video on July 4, 2024

RAVING REVIEW: Liz W. Garcia’s SPACE CADET serves a concoction of humor and drama against the vibrant backdrop of Florida’s sunlit beaches and NASA. Here, Emma Roberts portrays Tiffany "Rex" Simpson, a bartender whose lifelong dreams of space travel are reignited by a friend who will forever change their lives. Fueled by a blend of ambition and a doctored resume courtesy of her friend Nadine (Poppy Liu), Rex sets her sights on NASA's challenging astronaut training with her competition and other “ASCANS.”

I want to discuss something I feel too often gets overlooked in film. If you are looking for the next CITIZEN KANE and are coming to a streaming platform comedy starring Emma Roberts, you’ve made the mistake. This isn’t the movie's fault; no one associated with this film expects it to be the next groundbreaking film that will shatter every record. This is a fun, light-hearted comedy that knows what it is. I apologize for getting off track, but it takes a toll on me when I see reviews of a film like this that just trash it because some film snob woke up on the wrong side of the bed. We have to be able to set our expectations when watching films!

Anyway, back to my review, Garcia shines while balancing comedic elements with moments of more profound, meaningful narrative arcs. SPACE CADET revolves around Rex’s struggle to move beyond her past and prove that her mistakes do not dictate her future. As Rex tackles the rigorous training regimen, she is carefully observed by NASA officials Pam (Gabrielle Union) and Logan (Tom Hopper), adding a layer of tension to her quest.

The film also has fun with its layered portrayal of secondary characters. Nadine and the ensemble of fellow trainees are given arcs reflecting broader friendship and personal growth themes. These subplots enhance the film’s emotional depth and create a richer narrative tapestry that parallels Rex’s central journey. Rex’s roommate Violet (Kuhoo Verma) is one of my favorites in the film, a fun and interjected portrayal reminiscent of these types of fun comedies in the past.

Drawing from her links to the sciences, Garcia injects authenticity into the depiction of the training program while also tipping her hat to inspirational films like LEGALLY BLONDE and PRIVATE BENJAMIN. This fusion of inspiration allows Rex's character to evolve from a local bartender to a hopeful astronaut, weaving a tale of resilience and ambition.

Garcia’s direction shines particularly in scenes where Rex’s internal transformation is mirrored in her interactions with the environment around her. The director's use of close-ups and wide shots effectively contrasts Rex's confinement with the boundless possibilities that await her, elevating the storytelling to a visual poetry that complements the narrative's themes.

Roberts’ portrayal of Rex is a fun lesson in balancing relatability with the extraordinary. She seamlessly shifts from serving drinks to navigating the trials of space prep. Her interactions with the supporting cast, notably Verma and Liu, infuse the film with a sense of genuine camaraderie and provide several moments of light-hearted relief amidst the high stakes of astronaut training.

While the narrative engine of SPACE CADET occasionally slows during the more procedural segments of Rex's training, Garcia navigates these potential stumbles by shifting focus to interpersonal dynamics and character development. These personal and communal growth vignettes keep the film engaging and underscore its thematic heart.

The storyline delves into themes of perseverance and self-belief, juxtaposing the rigorous discipline of astronaut training against the limitless horizons of personal dreams. Rex's dogged determination and the vibrant support of her friends highlight the universal message that dreams are within reach, regardless of one’s background.

Moreover, the film tackles the theme of imposter syndrome through Rex's experiences, resonating with anyone who has ever felt unqualified in new endeavors. This thematic exploration adds another layer to the film's appeal, making Rex’s victories feel triumphant and relatable.

SPACE CADET celebrates the human spirit’s capacity to overcome and achieve. The film stands out in the comedy genre with a strong ensemble, nuanced direction, and an emotionally resonant script. It champions the idea that even the most unconventional paths can lead to extraordinary places, advocating for diversity and innovation in settings as stringent as NASA’s training grounds.

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[photo courtesy of PRIME VIDEO]

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