Movie Review: The Aeronauts (2019)

Directed by: Tom Harper
Starring: Felicity Jones, Eddie Redmayne, Himesh Patel, and Tom Courtenay
Release Year: 2019

Plot Overview:

The Aeronauts is an adventurous historical drama that chronicles the remarkable journey of Amelia Wren (Felicity Jones), a fearless balloon pilot, and James Glaisher (Eddie Redmayne), a pioneering meteorologist. Set in 1862, the film depicts their ambitious mission to fly higher than anyone has ever flown in a hot air balloon to gather scientific data about the atmosphere.

As they ascend into the skies above London, they encounter various challenges, including severe weather conditions and the physical dangers of high-altitude flight. Throughout their journey, they reflect on their personal struggles, aspirations, and the bond that forms between them as they face adversity together.

Performances:

Felicity Jones delivers a compelling performance as Amelia, showcasing her character’s courage and determination to break societal norms and pursue her passion for flight. Jones captures the adventurous spirit of Amelia, making her an inspiring figure.

Eddie Redmayne is equally strong as James, embodying the character’s intellect and passion for science. The dynamic between Jones and Redmayne creates a heartfelt narrative as they support each other through their journey.

The supporting cast, including Himesh Patel and Tom Courtenay, adds depth to the film, though the primary focus remains on the central duo.

Direction and Style:

Tom Harper’s direction is visually striking, skillfully combining breathtaking aerial sequences with intimate character moments. The pacing effectively balances the excitement of flight with the emotional stakes of the characters’ backstories.

The cinematography by George Steel captures the beauty and danger of the skies, employing stunning visuals that immerse viewers in the experience of flight. The film effectively conveys the thrill of adventure and the breathtaking landscapes.

Action and Suspense:

The Aeronauts builds suspense through its exploration of the physical and emotional challenges faced during the flight. The tension rises as Amelia and James encounter increasingly severe weather and must make critical decisions to survive.

While the film does not rely heavily on traditional action sequences, the emotional stakes are high, creating a gripping experience that keeps viewers invested in the characters’ journey.

Themes:

The film explores themes of ambition, courage, and the pursuit of knowledge. It highlights the importance of scientific exploration and the risks involved in challenging the status quo. Additionally, it delves into the nature of friendship and partnership, emphasizing how collaboration can lead to extraordinary achievements.

The Aeronauts also examines gender roles and societal expectations of the time, as Amelia challenges norms by pursuing a career in aviation, inspiring future generations of women.

Weaknesses:

One potential weakness of The Aeronauts is that some viewers may find certain character arcs predictable or less developed. While the film provides a strong emotional core, some supporting characters could benefit from deeper exploration to enhance the narrative.

Additionally, the pacing may feel uneven at times, particularly in the transition between the flight sequences and the backstory, which could disrupt the overall flow of the film.

Conclusion:

The Aeronauts is a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film that captures the spirit of adventure and the pursuit of scientific discovery. With strong performances from Felicity Jones and Eddie Redmayne, and effective direction from Tom Harper, the film delivers an engaging narrative filled with excitement and inspiration.