Conspiracy theorists have had a hand in spicing up some of the most influential moments in human history. Whether they are right or wrong, however, is in the eye of the beholder. But every now and again, someone comes up with a conspiracy so outlandish, one almost wants to believe it to be fact. Moonwalkers dares to bring one such theory to life.
Directed by relative new comer Antoine Bardou-Jacquet, Moonwalkers stars Ron Perlman as a 60s-era CIA agent named Kidman charged with trying to make a realistic “fake” film of the Apollo 11 Moon landing. Enlisting the help of Jonny (played by Rupert Grint), a less than reputable rock band manager, Kidman is persuaded to trust him to find famed auteur Stanley Kubrick to direct the elaborate ruse. When Jonny sours the deal by conning Kidman, the two team up in a desperate attempt to create the footage in case the space mission fails.
Set around the experimental drug lifestyle of the time, Moonwalkers plays on the tropes of that world, using the free spirited nature of the counterculture to guide the plot through outlandish, and often hilarious situations, adding to the ridiculousness of the conspiracy while still leaving the viewer wondering if anything this zany could actually have worked.
Another plus toward this film becoming a hit is the unconventional yet completely compatible cast. Not having seen Grint in much outside of the highly popular Harry Potter series, it’s refreshing to watch him taking on cool roles. Playing his opposite is Ron Perlman, who is always a good time on screen, bringing his usual intimidating demeanor to balance Rupert Grint’s sheepishness.
Fun, silly and inventive, this film seems to hit all the right notes. So, be your own critic and experience the groovy trip that is Moonwalkers. I’m just here to guide you along the way. Peace and love.
Release Date: January 15, 2016
