Film: Fly Me to the Moon [2024] – Scarlett Johansson, Channing Tatum

Fly Me to the Moon is cute, inoffensive, and forgettable. It’s a charming romantic comedy set during the Moon landing that doesn’t soar but also doesn’t crash.

Starring Scarlett Johansson, and Channing Tatum, this film is not as serious or inspirational as Ron Howard’s Apollo 13; or as thought-provoking as the more recent First Man by Damien Chazelle. And it’s not meant to be.

If anything, the film gave me 1950s movie vibes. It resembles the kind of light fare from the ’50s and ’60s in which Doris Day would play a perky, plucky heroine opposite a bewildered straight man like Rock Hudson or James Garner. Sadly, for a rom com, the chemistry between the leads needs a little work, especially on Tatum’s side.

No one is going to win (or should win) any awards from this production (Sorry!). It’s a fun ride riddled with history lessons that tie it down instead of letting it soar as a comedy. Side note, it is pure gold for conspiracy buffs.

However, while the story is weak and not inspiring, the film’s production values are outstanding, especially the cars and costumes. To top it all off, there’s an enjoyable alley cat that has a key role to play in this semi-historical adventure. 

Did I laugh and enjoy watching it? Yes. Did I care or connect anyone? Not at all. Will I watch it again? Probably not.

Should You Watch It?

Forgettable, this film is ultimately a $100m triumph of period production design that feels at least two script drafts away from balancing its frankly weird assortment of reference points, ideas and emotions.

Where Can I Watch It?

You can stream Fly Me To the Moon exclusively on Apple TV.