Moon is a 2009 science fiction film directed by Duncan Jones, marking his directorial debut. The film stars Sam Rockwell as Sam Bell, a man nearing the end of a three-year solitary contract mining helium-3 on the far side of the Moon. The story unfolds at Sarang Station, where Sam's only companion is GERTY, an intelligent computer voiced by Kevin Spacey. As he approaches the end of his contract, Sam begins to experience hallucinations and psychological distress due to his isolation and the limited communication with Earth, which is restricted to pre-recorded messages from his wife, Tess.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn when Sam suffers an accident while operating a lunar rover. Upon regaining consciousness, he discovers a mysterious doppelgänger and begins to unravel the unsettling truth about his existence and the nature of his mission. The film explores profound themes of identity, loneliness, and the ethical implications of corporate practices in a future where human life is expendable.
Upon its release on June 12, 2009, Moon received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking story and Rockwell's intense performance. It holds a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its compelling narrative and the emotional depth that Rockwell brings to the character. The film's cinematography and score by Clint Mansell were also highlighted as integral to creating its atmospheric tension.
Despite its modest budget of approximately $5 million, Moon grossed over $9 million worldwide. It has since gained a cult following and is regarded as a significant entry in contemporary science fiction cinema. Critics have noted that while it employs familiar sci-fi tropes, it ultimately serves as a meditation on what it means to be human in an increasingly technological world. The film's exploration of isolation resonates with audiences, making it a memorable and impactful experience in the genre.