It can't be easy to make an effective and compelling drama out of something we've read about in history books our whole lives. First Man, like a lot of biopics, certainly has its share of checklist moments, but it's generally more subtle and personal than that. It gets to the heart of its subject in a way that feels characteristic: a cold and reserved portrait of a cold and reserved person.
Watching the movie, you can understand why this man might want to take on such a scary and isolating mission, and why his achievements always come with a sense of melancholy. More than a space movie, this is really a story about grief, and about the lengths we'll go to suppress it, even if that means leaving the planet. Gosling expresses this feeling wonderfully (if you've seen Drive or Blade Runner 2049, you already knew he was born to play characters who struggle to emote), and Damien Chazelle captures it all with quiet insight and thrilling spectacle.
Plus, as expected as the climax might be (spoilers: they go to the moon), its presentation is so awe-inspiring and tender that I was riveted anyway.
Grade: A-
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