Ridley Scott's 2015 science fiction film, The Martian, has re-entered Prime Video's top 10 streaming movies, currently holding the number six spot. This resurgence in popularity appears to be directly linked to the recent box office success of Christopher Nolan's film The Odyssey, which also stars Matt Damon.
Directed by Ridley Scott and written by Drew Goddard, The Martian is based on the novel by Andy Weir. The film is set in 2035 and chronicles the story of Dr. Mark Watney, a botanist on a NASA mission to Mars. Watney is stranded and presumed dead after a severe dust storm forces his crew to evacuate. With the next scheduled Mars mission four years away, Watney must rely on the limited provisions within the NASA habitat and document his survival through video diaries.
The Martian explores themes of survival and isolation in space, drawing tonal similarities to Weir's novel Project Hail Mary. The film is noted for its blend of weighty subject matter with humor, largely attributed to Damon's portrayal of Watney. A memorable sequence depicts Watney cultivating a potato garden using his and his crewmates' waste. Despite its dramatic elements, the film garnered awards for "Best Musical or Comedy" and Matt Damon's Best Performance at the 2016 Golden Globes, a decision that sparked controversy among some comedy fans who felt the film was miscategorized.
A decade after its release, The Martian is largely appreciated for its narrative about human endurance in a space setting, often compared to films like Cast Away. Damon's compelling performance, particularly his ability to carry scenes while largely alone, is a central aspect of the film's success. The Martian is now available for streaming on Prime Video.