Story and science make ‘The Martian’ compelling sci-fi
Great sci-fi films combine visual effects, plausible science, and engaging characters who feel like real people. It’s a difficult balancing act between explosions and action, math and engineering, and an engrossing emotional journey. This is why great sci-fi films are so few and far between, and why The Martian gives me hope that this kind of movie can exist in the effects-ridden landscape of current sci-fi and action movies.