‘First Man’ (PG-13)

Ryan Gosling plays legendary astronaut Neil Armstrong in “First Man,”  a detailed chronicle of not only the first man to set foot on the moon, but a look at the highs and lows of the NASA space program and the tragedies Armstrong endured during the space race with the Soviets in the 1960s.

Appropriately timed with the 60th birthday of NASA Oct. 1, “First Man” gives a fascinating look at the early years of NASA leading up to the Apollo 11 moon mission, including the tragedies to befall many of his colleagues as the organization worked toward its goal of beating the Russians to the moon.

Technically, “First Man” is incredible as is recreates pivotal moments in the NASA’s history, yet, the acting feels a bit flat at times, especially by Gosling. It could be Gosling was playing it low-key because that’s the way Armstrong was in real-life (he was largely known as a “reluctant hero”), and certainly the personal tragedy that haunted him throughout his career at NASA no doubt drove him even deeper into his shell. At the same time, it’s that family tragedy that gave him the resolve to stay on course and go through the dangerous training missions and the eventual mission to the moon, so, it’s hard to criticize an Gosling’s portrayal of Armstrong, even when you expect something more out of the actor.

On the flip side, Corey Stoll gives a lively performance as Buzz Aldrin, while Claire Foy delivers as expected as Armstrong’s wife, Janet, who grapples the best she can with the astronaut’s stoic demeanor. Jason Clarke — one of the most underrated actors in the business — is great as usual as Ed White, one of the pivotal figures in NASA along with Gus Grissom (Shea Whigham) and Roger Caffee (Cory Michael Smith) who are involved in a tragic accident as the agency tries to get its bearings. All told, “First Man” is a brutally realistic look at an agency that has endured massive setbacks on its way to exploring the space above us.

Lammometer: 7 (out of 10)

Tim Lammers reviews movies weekly for The KQ92 Morning Show,” “KARE 11 News at 11” (NBC), WCCO Radio, WJON-AM, KLZZ-FM, “The Tom Barnard Podcast” and “The BS Show” with Bob Sansevere.

Copyright 2018 DirectConversations.com