"Edge of Space" grabs your attention right from the start with its breathtaking visuals, transporting viewers back to the early days of the space race. The aerial scenes are flawless, with an incredible level of detail that captures the vastness and isolation of space like few films can. The art direction and cinematography stand out, perfectly recreating the environment and atmosphere of the era. However, as impressive as the film is on a technical level, it stumbles when delivering a narrative that, instead of captivating, gets lost in a sea of predictability.
Set at the height of the space race in 1961, "Edge of Space" focuses on the dangerous mission of Captain Glen Ford (Chad Michael Collins), chosen to attempt a groundbreaking suborbital flight after a tragic explosion claims the life of his colleague, Tom Mitchel (Kevin LaRosa II). The movie follows Glen's preparation to face the risks of a challenge as revolutionary as it is deadly, while also delving into the nuances of his relationship with his wife, Chloe (Kimberly Alexander).
The biggest issue with "Edge of Space" lies in its screenplay, which barely scratches the surface of the emotional potential in the story. The dialogue often falls into clichés, diluting the impact of the film's more dramatic moments. The characters' journeys, which should be the beating heart of the short film, feel shallow and derivative, lacking the depth needed for the audience to genuinely connect with their motivations and fears. While the story tries to balance the tension of space exploration with personal dilemmas, it fails to go beyond the surface.
Despite its narrative flaws, "Edge of Space" is still worth watching for the stunning visual experience it offers. The soundtrack complements the most intense scenes well, and the direction succeeds in creating hypnotic, immersive moments. However, it's hard to ignore the feeling that the film could have been so much more. It shines on a technical level but falls short when it comes to telling a story that lingers in your memory. Perhaps its concept would work better as a full-length feature film.
