Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar reminds the viewer of his well-acclaimed Inception with its metaphysical premise and impressive cinematography.  However, the film both awes and disappoints.

There is no denying that Interstellar is visually stunning.  Alternating between slow, serene shots of outer space and quick-paced action filming, the camera takes the viewer on a riveting exploration of foreign galaxies and planets along with the characters.  In addition, Hans Zimmer’s score provides the perfect balance between high-paced action music and sci-fi-esque, otherworldly undertones.

However, the movie’s plot, script and acting all fall short of its visual and auditory magnificence.  Although the beginning premise is promising – an ex-pilot-turned-farmer is commissioned to head an experimental mission into the unknown to save the human race – it quickly turns into a pseudo-scientific chronicle filled with the illogical plot twists typical of recent action films.  Although some of the actors’ performances are well done (Mackenzie Foy is heart-wrenchingly genuine as young Murphy, the protagonist’s daughter), the rest are adequate at best.  This may be because of the script, which has characters stating the film’s themes with no attempt at allusion and a few lines that are downright awkward.

Ultimately, don’t expect the performances and writing to leave you breathless. Save that for the cinematography and soundtrack, which by themselves make the movie worth seeing.