Review: The Aeronauts

Taking place in the mid-1800’s, science was on the rise in many fields, but unfortunately, weather and meteorology were not considered worthy endeavors by most scholars. That is until a pioneer named James Glaisher risked his life and reputation to gather new and exciting information on earth’s stratosphere.

James Glaisher, played by Eddie Redmayne in this film, wanted to prove that science could be used to determine the weather and possibly save or help the people of Earth. Using knowledge and scientific devices to determine true information is his passion, but it also might be his downfall. Respect flees his every step as the scientific community labels him as ludicrous and ill-informed.

His only hope, lies with a daredevil balloon pilot named Amelia Rennes (Felicity Jones). A woman with experience flying balloons and the currents that carry it. Though she is very apprehensive, as her previous flight ended in tragedy.

Understanding an uphill battle, James works to prepare and pre-plan eventualities for their flight. While Amelia works to fight her fear, while still putting on the entertainment spectacle that she is known for.

Letting go of gravity is easy, but surviving extreme weather in a gas balloon can be death defying at every corner. High winds, rain and thin air all lead to a harrowing adventure to find the truth of the world.

This film is set in a way that begins with a balloon taking off and jumps back and forth through time to expound on the characters and expand the story. An interesting and fun film with many suspenseful moments, we quickly learn that all daredevils can be scientists and all scientists need to also be daredevils. This film is much less stuffy than I first thought, with enjoyable banter between Eddie and Felicity, an acting pair that has delivered time and time again.

Grade: B
MPAA Rating: PG-13
Running Time: 1h 40m

Since Eddie Redmayne’s character is a scientist in The Aeronauts, we asked him to give us a fact. Which led more to a funny story!