Common Sense Media Review
By Stefan Pape
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Understated space drama has inspiring female lead, nudity.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Proxima
What's the Story?
PROXIMA tells the story of Sarah Loreau (Eva Green) a French astronaut who is the only woman in a male-dominated program that will see her aboard a space station for a year long mission. But in doing so, Sarah has to leave behind her daughter Stella (Zélie Boulant) and she becomes increasingly worried about what it will do to their relationship.
Is It Any Good?
This is an understated, and subtle character study that subverts the tropes of the science-fiction genre to positive effect. Director Alice Winocour must be commended for this pensive and slow-burning drama -- that has shades of Brad Pitt's Ad Astra -- in how we analyze the psychology of those who commit to spending much of their life in space. Although the central focus is on the characters, there is a dramatic tension that derives from a mother leaving behind her daughter, with this relationship explored to a profound effect.
Green is terrific in the central role, as while she remains a great inspiration in how she has defied the odds in a male-centric environment, her talent is grounded by her authenticity. She is vitally portrayed as being flawed and imperfect. Proxima is reliant on her performance, and she's nuanced and internalized and incredibly easy to root for. This is a welcome addition to the space traveling genre, but a movie perhaps not for the impatient viewer.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the mother and daughter relationship in Proxima. How does Sarah's decision to go on her mission impact her relationship with Stella? Do you think Sarah is right to go?
Sarah is an inspiring female role model. Can you think of any other movies with strong female role models? Would you like to see more? Which women in your lives inspire you?
In the movie, Sarah is subject to misogynistic comments from her colleagues. How does she deal with it? Discuss sexism in the workplace and the impact of the #MeToo movement.
Sarah has worked incredibly hard to become an astronaut. What character strengths has she needed to achieve her goals? What would you like to be when you're older? What can you do now to help achieve those goals?
Movie Details
- On DVD or streaming : November 6, 2020
- Cast : Eva Green , Zélie Boulant , Matt Dillon
- Director : Alice Winocour
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Director(s)
- Studio : Picturehouse
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : STEM
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Run time : 107 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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