Fly Me to the Moon: A Star-Crossed Romance That Fails to Reach New Heights

Fly Me to the Moon, a romantic drama set against the backdrop of Nasa's lunar programme, fails to lift off despite Scarlett Johansson's delightful performance.
Fly Me to the Moon: A Star-Crossed Romance That Fails to Reach New Heights

Fly Me to the Moon: Nasa’s Lunar Programme Takes Center Stage in This Charming, yet Flawed Romance

The 1960s space race has reached its climax, with the moon landing mere months away. Amidst the excitement, the public’s interest in Nasa’s achievements has begun to wane. Enter Kelly Jones, a marketing whiz tasked with reigniting the nation’s passion for space exploration. With her charm and wit, Kelly sets her sights on Nasa’s launch director, Cole Davis, a man haunted by a previous mission’s tragic failure.

The Kennedy Space Center in the 1960s, a hub of activity during the space race

Kelly, played by Scarlett Johansson, is a force to be reckoned with. Her sharp tongue and quick wit make her a formidable opponent in the battle of the sexes. As she navigates the testosterone-fueled world of Nasa, Kelly’s femininity and charm prove to be her greatest assets. Channing Tatum, on the other hand, plays Cole Davis with a stiffness that makes it difficult to warm up to his character.

Channing Tatum and Scarlett Johansson in Fly Me to the Moon

Despite its promising premise, Fly Me to the Moon struggles to find its footing. The film’s tone veers wildly between a lighthearted romance and a more serious drama, leaving the viewer feeling unmoored. Johansson shines as Kelly, but Tatum’s performance falls flat. The film’s ambition is admirable, but its execution leaves much to be desired.

Mission control during the Apollo 11 mission

In the end, Fly Me to the Moon feels like a missed opportunity. With its timely release and intriguing premise, the film had the potential to be a standout hit. Instead, it settles for being a middling romance with a fascinating backdrop.

Nasa’s Apollo 11 moon landing, a historic moment in space exploration