First Man is a 2018 American biographical drama film directed by Damien Chazelle, based on the book by James R. Hansen.
The film stars Ryan Gosling as Neil Armstrong, the first person to walk on the Moon, and Claire Foy as his wife, Janet Armstrong. It chronicles the years leading up to the Apollo 11 mission, focusing on the personal and professional challenges Armstrong faced from 1961 to 1969.
The narrative begins with Armstrong's career as a test pilot and his early involvement with NASA's Gemini program. It explores the emotional toll of his work, particularly the impact of the death of his young daughter, which adds a layer of personal struggle to his journey. As Armstrong trains for the Apollo 11 mission, the film delves into the sacrifices made by him and his family, highlighting the intense pressure and risks associated with space exploration.
First Man premiered at the Venice Film Festival on August 29, 2018, and was released in the United States on October 12, 2018. The film received critical acclaim for its direction, performances, particularly Gosling and Foy, and its realistic portrayal of space travel. The cinematography, led by Linus Sandgren, and the musical score by Justin Hurwitz were also highly praised.
Despite its positive reception, the film underperformed at the box office, grossing approximately $105.7 million worldwide against a production budget of $59 million. It received numerous accolades, including four Academy Award nominations, winning for Best Visual Effects. The film is noted for its intimate and humanistic approach to a monumental event in history, emphasizing the personal sacrifices behind the iconic achievement of landing on the Moon