What does it mean to be truly alone? Netflix’s “Spaceman” dives into this profound question, taking viewers on an emotional journey through the isolation of space and the complexities of the human psyche. Released quietly on March 1, Netflix’s strategy to position it alongside theatrical heavyweights like “Dune: Part 2” left the film somewhat under the radar. However, with a stellar cast that includes Adam Sandler, Carey Mulligan, and Paul Dano, under the direction of Johan Renck (“Chernobyl”), “Spaceman” crafts a unique blend of sci-fi adventure and emotional introspection that is hard to ignore.
“Spaceman” is considered a space sci-fi adventure movie. It begins with a video message interview, and a kid calls Jakob the loneliest man alive. While Jakob denies it, his expression is obvious: he feels alone. Not only that, but his wife Lenka (played by Carey Mulligan) wants to divorce Jakob (played by Adam Sandler) due to his absence during her pregnancy. Jakob is in space fulfilling his dream and humanity’s desire to explore the galaxy after discovering a purple cloud called the Chopra Cloud. A new space race begins, with only the Czech Republic and South Korea competing to reach the cloud. His boss, Commissioner Tuma, refuses to send a message from Lenka to protect Jakob’s mental well-being, knowing the strain of six months alone in space. Despite this, Lenka moves out, leaving Jakob to grapple with his solitude.
Adrift in space, Jakob hasn’t received any messages from his wife and has no human contact. His isolation drives him to the brink of insanity. Taking sleep medicine to combat his insomnia, Jakob begins hearing strange sounds. Things escalate when a giant, dog-sized spider appears on his ship and speaks, saying, “I was lulled by the meditative sounds of your tub.” Freaked out, Jakob tries to sanitize the ship, but the spider survives and introduces itself. It has studied human knowledge and is curious about Jakob’s loneliness. The spider, later named Hanus, telepathically delves into Jakob’s memories to help him confront his emotional turmoil.
As Jakob and Hanus bond over shared loneliness—and a mutual love for Nutella—Jakob learns that Hanus is a refugee from a destroyed planet. The spider reveals painful truths about Jakob’s past: his father’s betrayal as a state informant, the trauma of nearly drowning as a child, and the guilt of neglecting his wife, especially after a miscarriage. Hanus, confused by Jakob’s broken promises, helps him see how his selfish ambitions have led to his isolation. Yet, in exploring Jakob’s memories, Hanus also discovers the beauty of human love and connection.
Eventually, Jakob reaches the Chopra Cloud, and Hanus reveals he is dying from wounds inflicted by the Gorompeds, the creatures that destroyed his planet. Hanus and Jakob share a moment of forgiveness and understanding, reconciling their respective pasts. Hanus sacrifices himself to the Gorompeds in a deeply emotional scene, but not before he and Jakob experience the Chopra Cloud’s mysterious vibrations, symbolizing the beginning and the end of time. Jakob, left grieving for his friend, is rescued by South Koreans and makes a heartfelt call to his wife, asking for forgiveness.
The movie explores humanity’s relentless drive to explore the unknown while underscoring the importance of connection, love, and redemption. The unexpected friendship between Jakob and Hanus—a man and a spider—highlights how unexpected relationships can lead to profound self-discovery. The soundtrack, reminiscent of the emotional depth of “Interstellar,” perfectly complements the film’s poignant moments. The visuals, from the Czech Republic to the Chopra Cloud, are breathtaking and immersive.
“Spaceman” is a powerful reminder of what it means to be human, even in the vast, isolating expanse of space. With its blend of sci-fi, romance, and heartfelt drama, the film delivers a message about the importance of love, connection, and redemption. From anger to forgiveness, from humor to heartbreak, “Spaceman” takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, proving that even the unlikeliest of friendships can bring out the best in us. It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a story that’s as moving as it is unexpected.
