Gravity (2013)

DVD released February 26 2014. Rated M. Contains offensive language (including a profanity) and content that may disturb. Starring Sandra Bullock and George Clooney. Running time: 90 minutes

Gravity has been described as one of the year’s best.

A multiple Bafta winner and nominee for the Oscars, it’s certainly interesting – and yet I didn’t feel a lot watching it.

Thjnk of it as ‘lost in space’ for people who like stunning visuals. 

Thinkers also may climb on board as two astronauts on a routine mission encounter a series of shock events.

Blows punctuate every 10 or 15 minutes of screen time, reflecting the reality that some people do get kicked around by life. 

Sandra Bullock plays an engineer on her first mission. The distance between her, space and earth is scary to contemplate and her nervousness is catchy.

Sometimes, it feels like a cynical haven with a view from space.

God may be distant, and images of Jesus and Buddha encapsulate either a cynical touch or a meaningful one.

A lost and found theme shows us that even when we are found, the crippling effects don't go away overnight. Perhaps this is a take on salvation and sin on this side of heaven.

Towards the end, however, the life-changing voyage propels the Bullock character into gratitude for what she’s got, plus the resolve to hold onto it.

Philosophical seriousness rubs against familiarity (there is always a radio in space).

It isn’t subtle, and the story doesn’t kick in emotionally until later.

Peter Veugelaers writes poetry, stories, devotionals, and non-fiction, as well as reviews