The Space Between Us

The 2017 American science fiction romantic drama directed by Peter Chelsom blends elements of adventure, emotion, and speculative fiction to tell a story of love, identity, and longing across planetary distances. The film begins with the launch of a pioneering mission to colonize Mars by a private space corporation. Upon arrival, it is discovered that astronaut Sarah Elliot (Janet Montgomery) is pregnant and tragically dies giving birth to her son, Gardner (Asa Butterfield), the first human born on Mars. Due to the sensitive nature of his existence, Gardner is raised in secrecy by scientists, including his caring guardian Kendra (Carla Gugino), and he grows up with an intense curiosity about Earth and human connection. As a teenager, he begins an online friendship with a girl named Tulsa (Britt Robertson) from Colorado, concealing his true origins. When medical tests indicate that Gardner’s body may not survive Earth’s gravity for long, he is nevertheless brought back for study. Escaping from confinement, he embarks on a road trip with Tulsa, determined to explore the planet he has only seen from afar and to find his biological father. Their journey is filled with emotional discovery, evasion from authorities, and heartfelt moments as Gardner experiences life on Earth for the first time. The film touches on themes of isolation, human connection, scientific ethics, and the quest to belong. Visually contrasting the barren beauty of Mars with the richness of Earth, the movie aims to appeal to younger audiences through its sincere performances and romantic core. While the concept intrigued many, critical response was mixed, citing predictability and lack of narrative depth, though it gained appreciation for its emotional tone and coming-of-age message.