Cast
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Tom Hanks
as Narrator (voice)
Bill Paxton
as Ed Mitchell (voice)
Morgan Freeman
as Neil Armstrong (voice)
Scott Glenn
as Charles Duke (voice)
Paul Newman
as Dave Scott (voice)
John Travolta
as Jim Irwin
Matthew McConaughey
as Al Bean (voice)
Matt Damon
as Al Shepard (voice)
Bryan Cranston
as Buzz Aldrin (voice)
Rick Gomez
as Alpha Station Commander (voice)
Colin Hanks
as Conspiracy Neil Armstrong
Frank John Hughes
as Future Houston Capcom
Neal McDonough
as Reservoir Commander
Barry Pepper
as John Young
Kevin Pollak
as Director
Crew
Director
- Mark Cowen
Writer
- Mark Cowen
- Christopher G. Cowen
- Tom Hanks
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon represents a fascinating example of Documentary cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Mark Cowen brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2005, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon took approximately 26 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 40 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 82 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
- The costume department created over 101 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2005, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Dark Side of the Moon, which focuses more on action than character development, Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The World's Most Powerful Telescopes and The Mars Generation explore similar territory, Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 23, 2005
- Runtime: 40m
