In Adam Sandler's latest Netflix film, 'Spaceman,' the actor takes on the role of Jakub, a Czech astronaut embarking on a solitary space mission. However, Jakub's solitude is disrupted when he encounters a spider-like creature, voiced by Paul Dano, claiming to have traversed the universe since the dawn of time.
The storyline delves into Jakub's emotional struggles as he grapples with separation from his wife, Lenka, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, while journeying through the solar system. Despite an initial apprehension towards the creature, Jakub and the enigmatic being, eventually named Hanuš, forge an unlikely friendship as they venture towards the outer reaches of the solar system.
The film's director, Johan Renck, highlighted the dual interpretation of Hanuš as either a timeless entity or a figment of Jakub's isolation-induced imagination. Sandler's performance was largely solitary, with the actor interacting with props like a plush spider toy and a 3D-printed representation of Hanuš.
Paul Dano, chosen for his distinctive voice and ability to convey a nuanced shyness, lent his talents to bring Hanuš to life. The movie, based on Jaroslav Kalfar's 2017 novel 'Spaceman of Bohemia,' also features Kunal Nayyar, Lena Olin, and Isabella Rossellini in supporting roles.
'Spaceman' offers a unique blend of sci-fi and emotional depth, exploring themes of companionship, isolation, and self-discovery against the backdrop of space travel. The film is currently available for streaming on Netflix, inviting viewers to embark on a captivating journey through the cosmos alongside Jakub and his extraterrestrial companion.