In recent years, Ridley Scott films have been quite dour and dull affairs. On the surface, it may seem that The Martian would be just as lifeless as some of his more recent efforts. The film begins with a terrifying storm that leaves astronaut and botanist Mark Watney (Matt Damon) stuck on Mars and presumed dead by his earthbound crew. However, when NASA discovers that he is still alive, a mission begins to bring him home before he dies on the red planet.

While at times The Martian may be too fast paced to affect you emotionally, the film has an enthusiasm and energy that is ultimately infectious. Aside from the opening fifteen minutes, the rest of the film marks a tonal and thematic shift for Ridley Scott. With pop culture references, cheeky uses of ABBA and Bowie (though not the Bowie song you’d expect), and a generally light and fast-paced tone, the film frequently feels like the work of a younger director. The influence of Cabin In The Woods co-writer Drew Goddard is clearly felt. The script always keeps the story moving forward and is full of witty jokes as well as scientific substance.

The cinematography is also aided by an all-round fantastic cast. This is one of Matt Damon’s better performances and a great illustration of his talent, the sort of role where actors are able to display the full extent of their dramatic talent. Meanwhile, in supporting roles we have the likes of Kristen Wiig, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kate Mara, Jeff Daniels and Jessica Chastain. There isn’t a poor performance in the film, and the collection of top actors all clearly committed makes every element of the story compelling. For fans of the TV show Community, it’s a joy to see Donald Glover of Childish Gambino fame appear in a small but key role. Furthermore, the presence of Sean Bean allows for what might well be one of the best Lord of the Rings reference in film history.

The Martian has inevitably been compared to recent space epics Gravity and Interstellar, both of which are evoked through the imagery and cast members (this is Damon’s first film since his small but critical role in the latter). While The Martian is never as thrilling as Gravity or as emotional as Interstellar, it is an altogether more fun and rewatchable package. The film is an easy crowdpleaser, which is quite an achievement considering its genre as a survival/apocalyptic film in which science experiments are enlisted to salvage the dire situation in which the characters find themselves trapped.

There’s something charming about the film’s can-do attitude and message, making The Martian a triumph of the human spirit story that doesn’t seem mawkish but instead genuinely heart-warming.

Overall, The Martian is an intelligently made and fun film with its heart very much in the right place. A refreshing change of pace for Ridley Scott, a showcase for Matt Damon’s talents, and a heartwarming ode to human determination. The Martian is a satisfying film that will leave you with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.