Good Night Oppy is a documentary that sounds like a fictionalized adaptations of one of NASA’s missions. In 2003, twin Rovers – Spirit and Opportunity – were sent to Mars on a 90-day mission. This turned into a a 15 year journey on the Red Planet that showcased the bond between a robot and the Earthlings she worked with.
Ryan White’s documentary gets across much of the awe and wonder that NASA seems to have lost over the years. The scientists that worked so long and hard on the rovers speak with love. There are also many beautiful shots that will be a reminder of why everyone at least one point in their life dreams of being an astronaut. Good Night Oppy has an almost science fiction charm to it.
For some, there might not be enough science. The interviews are with those closely associated with the project and the initial plan for the mission was to find PH groundwater on Mars. Strangely, this search becomes an afterthought. This is especially odd since the seemingly groundbreaking discovery is actually made. There are a number of comments made throughout Good Night Oppy about the importance of the mission, but it this feeling is rarely conveyed in the actual film.
This is because the decision was made to make the story more about one of inspiration than discovery. And make no mistake about it, White does everything to make Good Night Oppy a tug at the heartstrings tale of perseverance. Along with the amazingly long duration of the expedition, there are a obstacles that are encountered and overcome. Oppy is also given humanlike qualities meaning when things do reach their inevitable conclusion, there is a sense of sadness and completion.
Good Night Oppy is unashamedly corny, but it also presents something that is not seen often in documentaries of today. There is no grand conspiracy or mystery to solve. It demonstrates the knowledge and dedication of the team that worked on the project while also displaying how much a person can care for their work. It is a heartwarming and planet spanning story that is perfect for the holiday season.
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