Solaris is a 1972 movie directed by Andrei Tarkovsky.
WHAT HAPPENS?
A psychologist is sent to investigate strange occurrences on the Solaris space base. He discovers the remaining scientists have communicated with a mysterious alien intelligence that somehow extracts their thoughts and memories.
ONE LINE REVIEW
Solaris is a moody, patient, spectacular exploration of memory and reality.
THE ACTORS
Danatas Banionis plays psychologist Kris Kelvin – he imprints the character with a heaviness and loss that ultimately drives the movie. It’s a demanding role as Tarkovsky patiently allows his dialogue-heavy scenes to unfold. Much of the movie sees Banionis defending both science and humanity. The emotional aspects of his character evolve once his memory of his former wife materializes into an alien form.
Natalya Bondarchuk plays Khari, Kris’ wife who has been dead for ten years. Her role is fascinating as the character is essentially forming memories into a life form. As Khari, she doesn’t know herself beyond Kris’ conception of her. It’s fascinating to see the different versions of the character appear and interact with Kris. Bondarchuk skillfully navigates Khari’s tenuous emotional hold on her husband.
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