The Martian

How this film uses it

NASA advised the production, answering hundreds of questions about habitats, radioisotope systems and how mission control looks. Watney's way of making water is chemically accurate and theoretically possible. The rescue plan relies on a real gravity assist. The drama comes from real limits like food, power and distance.

Where to see it

Surviving in the Hab: left alone, Watney grows potatoes using the crew's waste and Martian soil, and makes water from leftover rocket fuel.

How this film uses it

Watney jokes through his video logs while he is starving and alone. Author Andy Weir wrote him as someone who is not lonely and depressed, and the film keeps his humor. Scott still shows the isolation through the dust and distance. The jokes are how Watney keeps going.

Where to see it

The video diary: after waking alone in the Hab, Watney begins a video diary to record his thoughts on survival.

How this film uses it

The film cuts between 3 places at once: Watney on Mars, NASA and JPL on Earth, and the Hermes crew in space. The Earth scenes are crowded and busy, which sets off the empty dust of Mars. The 3 threads join in the final rescue.

Where to see it

The rescue attempt: Lewis blows open part of the Hermes to slow it, then flies out on a tether, and Watney punctures his suit to propel himself toward her.

How this film uses it

Commander Lewis left behind a collection of 1970s songs, mostly disco, which is the only music Watney has. It turns into a running gag. The songs include Donna Summer's "Hot Stuff," ABBA's "Waterloo" and David Bowie's "Starman." "I Will Survive" plays over the closing credits as a comment on his situation.

Where to see it

Watney's days in the Hab: Watney listens to Lewis's disco collection, the only music he has on Mars.