Despite having some promising cinematography and production design, Fly Me to the Moon is an underwhelming disappointment. All in large part, thanks to the miscasting of its main leads.
Synopsis in Fly Me to the Moon
A quick synopsis: In Fly Me to the Moon, marketing genius Kelly Jones (Scarlett Johansson) is hired to fix NASA’s public image before the launch of the Apollo 11 mission. Much to the chagrin of Launch Director Cole Davis (Channing Tatum). As the countdown wanes, the two go from butting heads to sparks flying. But, when the stakes become astronomically high, the U.S. government puts together an alternate plan. One that threatens not only the integrity at NASA. But also, threatens Kelly and Cole’s new relationship.
Underwhelming Chemistry in Fly Me to the Moon
Known for mostly producing television, Fly Me to the Moon marks a departure for Greg Berlanti. In the sense that Berlanti is mostly focusing in Film. This time around, Berlanti and company craft a breezy romantic comedy. Albeit set against the backdrop of a major historical event. With the backdrop, Berlanti and cinematographer Dariusz Wolski convey a slick look. This is expanded by the VFX company Framestore, who create extensions for each set.
However, this is amplified by Shane Valentino’s production design. Which fully replicates the look of the 60s. The production design also complements Wolski’s cinematography. Additionally, this allows for costume designer Mary Zophres to expand on that look. As a result, Zophres gives us period-accurate costumes and hairstyles. Fully matching what the style would have been like back then.
However, when it comes to the screenplay, screenwriter Emily Gilroy’s script lacks a central tone. Mainly as the tone is split apart. Resulting in sets of comedy. The romantic comedy between the main leads. And the workplace comedy involving all of the NASA crew. Especially when it comes to the conspiracy angle. Because of this, the editing then becomes an issue. Clocking in at about two hours and twelve minutes, editor Harry Jierjan edits the film with a quick pace. For the most part, this works as the film breezes on over. But, when the film reaches the two and a half hour mark, it begins to drag.
Performances in Fly Me to the Moon
Sadly, another reason why the film falters is due to its casting. Primarily, with its two leads: Channing Tatum’s Cole Davis and Scarlett Johansson’s Kelly Jones. Together, Tatum and Johansson lack any palatable chemistry. Instead, the attempt at chemistry is more or less bickering. And while that is a staple of the romantic genre, it falls flat on screen.
Despite this, Tatum and Johansson with other cast members. Prime examples of this are Jim Rash’s Hollywood director Lance Vespertine, Ray Romano’s Harry Smalls, and Woody Harrelson’s Moe Berkus. All three actors manage to develop a rapport with Tatum and Johansson individually. Furthermore, Tatum and Johansson’s characters have better chemistry with their NASA and Marketing co-stars Anna Garcia, Donald Else Watkins, and Noah Robbins. With that said, Rash and Harrelson would be the film’s standout performances. Both in particular presents the film’s time period through their characters.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Fly Me to the Moon, it’s a mixed bag. Despite solid cinematography and production design successfully capturing the look and the period, Gilroy’s script lacks a singular focus. Especially when it comes to which type of comedy to pursue. Still, there are some hilarious moments. And while the pairing of Tatum and Johansson isn’t right, the two’s chemistry with others like Rash and Harrelson does work. Overall, Fly Me to the Moon is a flawed, but enjoyable time.
