Solaris 1972 vs. Solaris 2002

Attribute	Solaris 1972	Solaris 2002
Director	Andrei Tarkovsky	Steven Soderbergh
Runtime	167 minutes	99 minutes
Language	Russian	English
Setting	Earth and Solaris space station	Earth and Solaris space station
Adaptation	Based on the novel by Stanisław Lem	Based on the novel by Stanisław Lem

Plot

Solaris, a science fiction novel written by Stanislaw Lem, has been adapted into two films: Solaris 1972 directed by Andrei Tarkovsky and Solaris 2002 directed by Steven Soderbergh. Both films follow the story of a psychologist who is sent to a space station orbiting the planet Solaris to investigate the mysterious behavior of the crew. However, the two films take different approaches to the plot.

Character Development

In Solaris 1972, the focus is on the psychologist Kris Kelvin and his emotional journey as he grapples with his past and the manifestations of his deceased wife on the space station. The film delves deep into Kelvin's psyche and explores themes of grief, guilt, and human connection. On the other hand, Solaris 2002 places more emphasis on the relationship between Kelvin and his deceased wife, Rheya, and how their love transcends time and space.

Visual Aesthetics

Andrei Tarkovsky's Solaris 1972 is known for its slow pacing, long takes, and atmospheric cinematography. The film creates a sense of isolation and introspection through its use of muted colors and dreamlike sequences. In contrast, Steven Soderbergh's Solaris 2002 has a more polished and sleek look, with a focus on modern technology and special effects. The visuals in the 2002 version are more vibrant and dynamic, reflecting the advancements in filmmaking technology since the 1970s.

Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Solaris 1972, composed by Eduard Artemyev, is haunting and atmospheric, adding to the film's sense of unease and mystery. The electronic score complements the visuals and enhances the emotional impact of the story. In comparison, Solaris 2002 features a score by Cliff Martinez that is more minimalist and ambient, with a focus on creating a sense of tension and suspense. The music in the 2002 version adds a modern touch to the film's overall aesthetic.

Themes

Both Solaris 1972 and Solaris 2002 explore themes of memory, identity, and the nature of reality. The films raise questions about what it means to be human, the power of love, and the limits of human understanding. While the 1972 version leans more towards philosophical introspection and existential dread, the 2002 version emphasizes the emotional and psychological aspects of the story, focusing on the characters' relationships and inner struggles.

Reception

Solaris 1972 has been praised for its artistic vision, complex narrative, and thought-provoking themes. The film is considered a masterpiece of science fiction cinema and has influenced many filmmakers in the genre. On the other hand, Solaris 2002 received mixed reviews, with some critics praising its visual style and performances, while others criticized its pacing and lack of emotional depth. Despite the differences in reception, both films have their own unique strengths and contributions to the Solaris story.