First Man (2018) Review in 2025
First Man is a biographical drama film that tells the story of Neil Armstrong's journey to become the first person to walk on the moon. The film is a gripping and emotional ride that explores the personal and professional struggles of Armstrong and his family.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
This film is not suitable for young children due to its intense and emotional content. However, older children and adults will find it a compelling and inspiring story.
CineReview Recommendation
This film is a must-see for anyone interested in history, science, or technology. It's a gripping and emotional ride that will leave you inspired and motivated.
Spoiler Alert!
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The film takes a deep dive into Armstrong's personal struggles, including his fear of flying and his strained relationship with his family. The film also explores the technical challenges of the Apollo 11 mission and the risks that the astronauts took to achieve their goal.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The story is well-researched and engaging, with a strong focus on Armstrong's personal struggles and the technical challenges of the Apollo 11 mission. The pacing is well-balanced, with a mix of intense and emotional moments.
acting9.00/10
The acting is superb, with Ryan Gosling delivering a nuanced and relatable performance as Armstrong. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Claire Foy and Jason Clarke.
characters8.50/10
The characters are well-developed and complex, with Armstrong being a particularly nuanced and relatable protagonist. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Claire Foy and Jason Clarke.
direction9.50/10
Damien Chazelle's direction is superb, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the subject matter. The film's cinematography is also stunning, with a mix of sweeping vistas and intimate close-ups.
cinematography9.50/10
The cinematography is breathtaking, with a mix of stunning vistas and intimate close-ups. The use of practical effects is also impressive, adding to the film's sense of realism and authenticity.
Pros and Cons
Pros
The film's strong performances, engaging story, and stunning cinematography make it a standout film of the year. The film's themes of perseverance and determination are also inspiring and relatable.
Cons
The film's pacing can be slow at times, and some viewers may find the technical details of the Apollo 11 mission to be overwhelming. However, these minor flaws are easily overlooked in the face of the film's many strengths.
Notable Quotes
"I believe this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth."
"That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind."
