Step into the thrilling world of science fiction cinema with I.S.S. (International Space Station), directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite and written by Nick Shafir. Despite some stiff performances from its stars, including Ariana DeBose, Chris Messina, John Gallagher Jr., Masha Mashkova, Costa Ronin, and Pilou Asbæk, I.S.S. is an imaginative and suspenseful thriller that makes the most of its limited space and budget.
The story follows Dr. Kira Foster (DeBose) and scientist Christian Campbell (Gallagher) as they journey to the International Space Station to test the effects of zero-gravity on regenerative medicine. However, their mission takes a dangerous turn when they witness explosions on Earth and are ordered to take full control of the I.S.S. by any means necessary. As tensions mount and suspicions grow between the American and Russian factions on board, they must work together to find a way back to Earth and their families.
Cowperthwaite’s direction and Nick Remy Matthews’ cinematography capture the intense moments and movements in such a small space, creating a visually captivating narrative that takes full advantage of the enclosed, weightless environment. Every floating object and the looming emptiness of space becomes a player in this suspenseful drama, creating a palpable tension that adds a sense of dread. The movie moves at a steady pace, maintaining its grip without ever feeling like it’s overstaying its welcome.
However, the storytelling falls into the trope of Russians and Americans clashing in a Cold War-reminiscent conflict, which feels a bit cliché despite its antiwar messages and emphasis on cooperation. The acting suffers as a result, with the cast coming across as one-dimensional and lacking strong direction and character arcs.
Despite its flaws, I.S.S. is undeniably a journey worth taking for the visual experience and the steady-paced suspense. Cowperthwaite’s background in documentary filmmaking shines through in her directing style, and the film serves as a warning of what the future may hold if humanity doesn’t find common ground amidst growing hostility and global warming.
Catch I.S.S. at the Tribeca (Spotlight Narrative) festival, distributed by LD Entertainment, with a running time of 1 hour and 35 minutes.