The Space Between Us

This sweet but not particularly out-of-this-world teen romance stars a talented ensemble, but it ultimately lacks the necessary sparks. Although younger audiences may not notice, adults will realize the age discrepancy between the two main characters (almost seven years); Robertson and Butterfield are fine actors, but the filmmakers should cast someone as Tulsa who didn't look old enough to be Butterfield's concerned older sister -- or chosen a male lead who didn't look quite so young. By the time they start their inevitable kissing, it's downright uncomfortable to watch.

That major flaw aside, the story is fairly predictable once audiences figure out what's a red herring and what's reality. Hot on the couple's heels is the Mars mission's former billionaire visionary, Nathaniel Shepherd (Gary Oldman). His keen interest in Gardner's health signals an overarching sense of guilt at unknowingly sending a pregnant woman to space, and Goldman plays Shepherd with a constant sense of concern and frenzy. Carla Gugino, an expert at maternal roles, co-stars as Kendra, the scientist who acted as Gardner's primary guardian on Mars. She's always ready with a comforting word to the curious, confused boy. Bottom line? This is no Titanic, but The Space Between Us should appeal to middle-schoolers looking for an easy-to-follow story about teens who find friendship and love from across the solar system.