Solaris is sci-fi film for the sleep-deprived

Films like the new science fiction, fantasy Solaris easily split audiences into two categories - those who love it, and those beating up the movie usher for letting them in the theater. This latest work from director Steven Soderbergh (Ocean's 11, Traffic) seems parallel to the work of the deceased director Stanley Kubrick. Kubrick revolutionized cinema with his space epic 2001: A Space Odyssey, a vision into the cold confines of space and the ascension of man. The late filmmaker was known for his methodical, lethargic style of storytelling. Solaris takes a similar approach to the classic space tale, while offering a touch of romance for moviegoers who typically stray from films of this genre. Psychiatrist Chris Kelvin (George Clooney) is a man haunted by his past. His wife (Natascha McElhone) committed suicide after he shunned her for having an abortion. Emotional baggage still clinging, Chris is requested to travel to a space station orbiting the planet Solaris to help negotiate a standoff there. The crew of the station has refused to leave because of strange occurrences, which Chris quickly finds himself a part of. Soon after his arrival, Chris is met by someone who couldn't possibly be there - his wife. After evaluating the rest of the crew, Chris finds everyone has been met by a visitor from his or her past and that, somehow, the strange planet floating beneath holds the key. Confused and emotionally torn, Chris fights between logic and his feelings to discover the purpose behind this bittersweet reunion. Films like Solaris tend not to offer entertainment, but instead force the audience to sit in awe of their power. The aforementioned 2001 had the same effect 30 years ago at a time when audiences' attention spans were much shorter. Unfortunately for Solaris, few people aside from the appreciative film critic can handle the sluggish style of film. This movie is painfully slow, but at the same time is beautiful and masterfully crafted. The film seems almost like the atypical director's cut with added, lengthier scenes. Anyone with even a remote case of Attention Deficit Disorder should bypass this movie. But aside from its tempo, the film presents a striking vision but not what audiences expect from space films. The focus of the story is about the life of Chris and his wife and their struggle to be together. The cold, somber setting in space perfectly sets the mood for a truly dismal tale of love. All the elements of the film are very strong, especially the cinematography. The film is a visual masterpiece, but choppy editing, probably for effect, tarnishes some scenes. The highlight among the small cast is Snow (Jeremy Davies). The group remains relatively transparent until Davies arrives. Although given limited screen time, Davies easily makes the biggest impact. Sadly, the strengths of Solaris eventually become its downfall. The classical elements of a space film are tapered to allow a bigger impact for the style. The style then becomes too slow and surprisingly barren of creativity and detail. In the deepness of space, Solaris doesn't shine very bright. Rating: (99 percent of America) C-, (Sci-fi junkies) A