The Last Man On The Moon

The Last Man On The Moon is a poignant, moving, and in-depth documentary film released in 2014. Beyond the usual realm of a traditional space movie, it goes on a personal journey alongside Eugene 'Gene' Cernan, the last astronaut to have walked on the lunar surface during the final Apollo mission, Apollo 17, in December 1972.

The film expertly uses an array of techniques to relay Cernan's life story and the historical context surrounding his legendary last steps on the moon. Directed by Mark Craig, the movie seamlessly blends archival footage, modern-day interviews, and truly spectacular space animations to paint the complete picture. Viewers are provided with an intimate and candid journey into Cernan's experiences over his years in NASA and his personal life.

Much of the narrative unfolds as the film charts Eugene's trajectory, beginning with Cernan's roots as a boy raised in the rural outskirts of Chicago. His passion for flying takes root early with an adventurous spirit, a tale of each stepping stone highlighting his tenacity. Embarking on this journey with the "Last Man on the Moon," the viewer witnesses his transition from being a naval pilot to an astronaut in the prestigious Apollo space program of NASA.

While most space movies focus more on the achievements of mission control or the collective efforts of the crews, this film takes a more personal look at the triumphs and tragedies, the price paid by the astronauts, their families, and even the country itself to achieve such a feat. Augmented by the retelling from Eugene himself, the film is deeply personal and emotional as it delves into the impact that this life-altering journey had on him and his family.

One of the film's standout features is the firsthand narration by Cernan, whose natural storytelling capability and charisma shine through. His recollections, filled with a sense of triumph, loss, and introspection, aptly capture the excitement, danger, and pride that characterized the entire Apollo program.

Supporting the main narrative in the film are interviews with other significant figures in NASA's history, such as the astronaut Alan Bean from Apollo 12, NASA flight director Gene Kranz, and Richard Gordon from Apollo 12 and 15. Also, the inclusion of Fred 'Baldy' Baldwin adds insightful discussions to this intimate documentary. The film wittily complements the narrative with contributions from journalists, family members, and space experts.

While it does provide an ample amount of nostalgia and historical context, the film also poses critical questions about the future of space exploration. It emphasizes the significance of unlocking the secrets of the cosmos and the pivotal role that space exploration plays in our understanding of humanity and our place in the universe.

Craig's meticulous direction paints a stellar picture of mankind's most extraordinary accomplishment. The visual elements of the film – with high-definition footage and impressive animations – are breathtaking. They effectively convey the awe-inspiring vastness of space and the perilous beauty of our lunar neighbor.

However, at its core, the film is not merely about the science of space exploration; it's remarkably human. The emotional ramifications, the familial pressures, the momentous burden of being a national icon, and the undeniable thrill of stepping on another celestial body, all form a complex web that deeply affected Eugene Cernan in the years following his return.

In conclusion, The Last Man on The Moon is not merely a space documentary; it stands out as a poignant human story set against the backdrop of one of the most extraordinary periods in human history. With a core foundation of raw emotion contrasted with unearthly surreal experiences, the film strikes an engaging balance between scientific exploration and the deeply personal journey of the man who left the last footprint on the lunar surface. The film manages to captivate the viewer with an intimate insight into the mind of Eugene Cernan, whose life was transformed irrevocably by standing, as he himself said, "on God's front porch."