In January of 2004, both robots landed successfully on Mars.  They instantly began transmitting photos back to Earth, to the delight of those who had worked on this history-making project.  Soon, the rovers were also collecting and analyzing data.  Spirit landed near racks that, to the scientist’s disappointment, were made of lava rather than sediment, which told them little about whether life had previously existed.  But Opportunity landed in front of what scientists gleefully termed a “Martian history book,” providing proof that there had once been water on Mars—probably billions of years ago—and therefore, possibly, even life.

Directed by George Butler (Pumping Iron) with a score by Phillip Glass (The Hours, Notes on a Scandal), Roving Mars began filming early on in the NASA project, so they were able to capture not only the landing but also the launch, which makes for a truly spectacular moment on-screen.  The CGI additions, which allow viewers to follow the trajectory of the launch into outer space, as well as the landing and views of Mars in full color, are also extremely realistic and frankly, fascinating.

As a result, Roving Mars is an engaging, well-made film that will interest even young children, provided parents are willing to narrate what is happening on-screen (and maybe fast-forward past the ‘boring’ parts, for very young viewers).  My five-year-old was positively riveted, and immediately declared that she wanted to be a scientist.  (Of course, a few weeks ago, she wanted to be a princess, so I haven’t started downloading M.I.T. applications just yet.)

Roving Mars would also make an excellent educational tool for home-school groups, especially if the kids were first prepared with lessons about the planets and/or space exploration.  Don’t forget the additional DVD features, which include short educational films.  And be sure to remind them as well that one day, one of their peers will probably be the first man to walk on Mars.  It might even be them.

AUDIENCE:  All ages

DVD EXTRAS: 

• Mars: Past, Present & Future
• Marks and Beyond (1957)

CAUTIONS:

• Drugs/Alcohol:  None.
• Language/Profanity:  None.
• Sexual Content/Nudity:  None.
• Violence:  None.