The Midnight Sky

About The Midnight Sky

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- About
- Making / Production
- Actors
- Trivia / Interesting Facts
- Awards
- Quotes
- Music, Soundtrack

About

The Midnight Sky is a 2020 science fiction drama film directed by and starring George Clooney. The film is based on the novel "Good Morning, Midnight" by Lily Brooks-Dalton. The story follows a scientist trying to warn returning astronauts of a global catastrophe while also caring for a young girl who may be the key to their future. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, the film alternates between two narratives: one following Augustine (played by George Clooney) at an Arctic research station desperately trying to contact the returning spaceship, and the other showcasing the astronauts' journey back to Earth after a mysterious event devastates the planet. The Midnight Sky examines themes of isolation, sacrifice, redemption, and hope, set against a backdrop of a planet on the brink of collapse. The film offers a poignant and emotional exploration of humanity's resilience in the face of overwhelming challenges.

Making / Production

The film was shot in various locations, including Iceland and the Canary Islands, to create the desolate and immersive setting of the post-apocalyptic world. George Clooney not only directed the film but also took on the challenging lead role of Augustine, showcasing his versatility as a filmmaker and actor. The visual effects in The Midnight Sky were crucial in creating the atmospheric and otherworldly landscapes seen throughout the film. The production team worked meticulously to bring the story's setting to life, blending practical effects with CGI to enhance the film's realism.

Actors

- George Clooney as Augustine: A scientist at the Arctic research station trying to make contact with the returning spaceship. - Felicity Jones as Sully Rembshire: An astronaut on the spaceship returning to Earth. - David Oyelowo as Commander Tom Adewole: The leader of the returning astronauts. - Tiffany Boone as Maya Peters: An astronaut on the returning spaceship. - Caoilinn Springall as Iris: A mysterious girl discovered by Augustine at the research station. Each actor delivered a nuanced and compelling performance, capturing the emotional depth and complexity of their characters in the face of an uncertain future.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

- George Clooney initially planned to cast a child actor for the role of Iris, but he was so impressed by Caoilinn Springall during auditions that he cast her in the role despite her lack of acting experience. - The film features breathtaking visuals of the Arctic wilderness, captured on location in Iceland to enhance the sense of isolation and desolation. - The Midnight Sky marks George Clooney's return to directing after a four-year hiatus, demonstrating his commitment to telling compelling and thought-provoking stories.

Awards

The Midnight Sky received nominations for its visual effects at the Academy Awards, recognizing the stunning work done by the production team to bring the post-apocalyptic world to life.

Quotes

- "This is Aether. Does anyone copy? We're not receiving any return communication." - Sully Rembshire - "There's a spaceship, trying to get to Earth. That's our mission." - Commander Tom Adewole - "You have to go. You have to go make all of the technical decisions, okay? I don't know what I'm doing." - Augustine

Music, Soundtrack

The film's haunting and atmospheric soundtrack, composed by Alexandre Desplat, sets the tone for the emotional journey of the characters. The music enhances the suspense and poignancy of the story, adding depth to the film's themes of hope and humanity.