Another Earth Review

Another Earth Review

The concept of alternate realities is always an interesting and insightful one. The movie Another Earth examines the idea of who would you be if you made different choices, had taken the other path, what would you be if you were another you.

Another Earth falls into the ever growing genre of reality based science fiction. These films are not special effects driven science fiction. They take place in a relatable time or in a relatable place. They very easily could happen tomorrow, and because of that I feel that they shouldn't be classified as science fiction. Another example of this type of movie is Gareth Edwards fantastic film Monsters.

Another Earth is a small independent film that takes place four years from now. The world has become absorbed with the discovery of a planet visible on our horizon. The planet is eerily similar looking to our planet and has earned the moniker of "Earth 2." Scientists theorize that Earth 2 is a mirror planet, and that it is identical to our planet. They also theorize that the population of Earth 2 is likely also identical to the population of our Earth. While the movie's science fiction revolves around the theories and philosophies of Earth 2, the real plot of the film is about a young woman named Rhoda.

At the beginning of the film Rhoda makes a horrible and costly mistake. Recently released from prison Rhoda attempts to re-assimilate to a society now changed by the   discovery of Earth 2. She wanders lost and confused, not knowing her exact place in the world. She decides to investigate John Burroghs, the victim of her mistake. She wants to approach him, to apologize, and take responsibility for her mistake. She knocks on his door, and when he answers, she freezes. Unable to make amends she devises a cover as a cleaning woman and offers her services to him. He agrees and the two develop a relationship that eases his pain, and gives her purpose, but is entirely fraudulent.

The films strengths lie in its characters. Both Rhoda and John are played realistically and honestly by Brit Marling, and William Mapother. The two bring amazing depth to the story. Rhoda and John are both so well developed and so well portrayed, that it makes the movie that much better. Their story is simultaneously painful, romantic, and tragic.

While the story and the characters are strong, I was really impressed with the philosophical undertones that popped up throughout the movie. The movie constantly poses hypothetical questions throughout the film that not only keep you connected to the characters but also keep you thinking about your life, and your choices and what you would do if you were presented with the same situations. Those philosophical hypotheticals along with the eerie visual of the horizon overwhelmed by the presence of Earth 2, won't easily be forgotten.

Overall the film is a brilliant character study set within the structure of a science fiction. Hopefully the big budget Hollywood films take a cue from these smaller films and populate their big budget spectacular films with quality characters with real depth.