MAGNIFICENT DESOLATION: WALKING ON THE MOON
(G)
MOVIE: *** (out of 5)
DVD EXPERIENCE: *** (out of 5)
Studio: HBO Video
BY KEVIN CARR
My first introduction to the documentary “Magnificent Desolation” was on the IMAX screen. And while I almost always enjoy an IMAX experience, this is one film that proves the rule that bigger isn’t always better.
It’s not to say that “Magnificent Desolation” is a film that is better in the DVD format, but you definitely come to it with less expectations. In the IMAX experience, it was in 3D, but the most spectacular shots were digitally recreated since no one has sent 3D IMAX cameras to the moon yet.
On DVD, you’re left with an inspirational documentary about man’s exploring of the moon. Narrated by Tom Hanks, this film gives the background of the moon landings and the space experience. While not as awe-inspiring as “For All Mankind,” which used a majority of footage from the space missions, “Magnificent Desolation” can serve to inspire anyone about going to the moon.
Told in a PBS documentary style, “Magnificent Desolation” is a nice film about the history of our going to the moon. By the end, I was hoping that we’ll go back, even if it’s not in the cards for me to be an astronaut.
The special features include an Apollo 11 video diary, a trivia game, a photo gallery, mechanics of Apollo 16 and a look inside the Lunar Roving Vehicle of Apollo 15 and the Extra Vehicular Activity of Apollo 17
For the space buff, “Magnificent Desolation” is a good film with keen special effects and a nice allotment of history.