Set on the Avalon spaceship, en route to a distant colony planet, Passengers begins with a catastrophic malfunction in the ship’s sleeping quarters. The incident awakens Jim Preston (Chris Pratt), a mechanical engineer, 90 years early, leaving him alone on a vast, empty ship bound for a new world. The film’s premise raises immediate questions about fate, loneliness, and the ethics of waking up another passenger, which Jim eventually decides to do when he wakes Aurora Lane (Jennifer Lawrence) under false pretenses, claiming that her cabin is also malfunctioning. At its core, Passengers is a profound exploration of isolation.
Jim’s initial loneliness is evident as he grapples with the reality of being the only person to wake up on a ship carrying thousands of others in suspended animation. The emotional turmoil he experiences reflects a deep fear of loneliness and the human need for connection. When he wakes Aurora, the film moves into a complex exploration of their relationship, highlighting themes of trust, manipulation, and the moral implications of Jim’s decision. As they navigate their feelings for each other, the film raises questions about love born of desperation and the moral dilemmas that arise in such extraordinary circumstances.
Jim and Aurora’s character arcs are intricately interwoven, showing their growth as they come to terms with the realities of their situation. Jim’s initial charm and charisma mask his deeper insecurities and moral conflicts. Aurora, on the other hand, is portrayed as strong and independent, but vulnerable to the emotional consequences of her awakening. Their relationship evolves from deception to a genuine bond formed in the face of adversity, making their journey both relatable and compelling. The film skillfully captures the nuance of their interactions, combining comedic moments with intense emotional exchanges that resonate with audiences.
Visually, Passengers is a success. The film’s stunning special effects and production design create an immersive experience that transports viewers into the vastness of space. The Avalon itself is a wonder, designed to reflect a futuristic yet believable spaceship. The cinematography captures both the beauty of the cosmos and the claustrophobic nature of the ship, highlighting the film’s themes of isolation and exploration. Director Morten Tyldum skillfully balances the film’s emotional depth with thrilling sci-fi elements, making it a visually compelling experience.
The making of Passengers required considerable collaboration between talented individuals. The script, written by Jon Spaihts, went through multiple iterations to refine the emotional and moral dilemmas faced by the characters. Both Lawrence and Pratt brought their talents to the project, with their chemistry evident in every scene. The film also features a haunting score by Thomas Newman, which adds to the emotional setting of the film and enhances the overall viewing experience.