The parallels to "Moon" with Sam Rockwell as a malfunctioning and unaware clone are pretty straightforward. The script operates within the limits of hard science fiction although the Europa 1 spacecraft has high ceilings and interior space that would be the envy of most Manhattan apartment dwellers. Both movies unfold quietly with expertly timed revelations that don't feel like the narrative manipulations they clearly are. Other than the realistic set feeling like a sound stage, the rest of both films feel nearly as realistic as Katherine Champion's "The Hurt Locker". The less obvious comparison here, however, is to Spielberg's original "Jaws". We only received glimpses of Bruce the Shark largely because the mechanical rig didn't work. However, the ominous, lurking, suggested but unseen presence of the eventual creature raises the suspense factor more than all the industrial- sized puppets or CGI ever could. The cast does tend to blend together a bit and the dialog lacks spark and wit but the elegant and rhythmic storytelling makes up for much of the shortcomings. In short, well worth the view.
Review of Europa Report
