Approaching the Unknown 2016

Sci-Fi

Drama

Thriller

Box Office

$10K

Runtime

90 min

Language

English

Directed by

Mark Elijah Rosenberg

Made by

Vertical Entertainment

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Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Approaching the Unknown (2016). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

Captain William Stanaforth embarks on a one-way solo mission to Mars, marking a pivotal moment in humanity’s quest to colonize the red planet. As the world tunes in, he finds himself entirely alone aboard the spacecraft. Following liftoff and the necessary rocket separations, Stanaforth removes his suit to unwind, while ground control sets him on a 270-day trajectory toward his destination.

Through a series of flashbacks, we uncover the brilliant mind behind the mission. Stanaforth ingeniously devises a method to create water (H2O) by supercompressing sand and combining the extracted hydrogen and oxygen. This groundbreaking synthesis is crucial for the success of the mission.

However, a malfunction in Stanaforth’s water generation system complicates his journey. Rather than adhering to the protocols that would have him return to Earth, he bravely takes manual control of the spacecraft, making the bold decision to press on towards Mars. His vessel becomes ensnared by a vast nebula, and in a moment of introspection narrated through a poignant voiceover, Stanaforth reflects on the essence of matter and the universe. He confesses, > “This is why I came here. To give everything up. For one moment of pure wonder.” In a striking visual, he is seen in his spacesuit, preparing to exit the craft.

The narrative then shifts abruptly to Stanaforth, now clean-shaven and readying himself for Martian landing. Stepping onto the barren soil of Mars, he muses, “Nothing has ever lived here. Nothing has even died here. Maybe I’ll live forever.” His journey encapsulates the essence of exploration and the profound solitude that comes with venturing into the unknown.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Approaching the Unknown (2016) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

Mission Launch

Captain William Stanaforth embarks on his historic mission to Mars, leaving Earth behind. As he boards the spacecraft, the magnitude of his journey begins to set in, marking a significant step for humanity's quest for extraterrestrial colonization.

Day of launch Earth

Solo Journey Begins

After liftoff, Stanaforth finds himself entirely alone aboard the spacecraft, with the entire world watching his progress via live feeds. The reality of his solitary mission begins to weigh on him as he prepares for the long journey ahead.

Immediately after takeoff Space

Initial Relaxation

Once the rocket separates and the trajectory is set, Stanaforth removes his suit to unwind and acclimate to the isolation. This moment allows him to enjoy a fleeting sense of normalcy amidst the challenges he is about to face.

During flight preparations Spacecraft

Water Generation Breakthrough

Flashbacks reveal Stanaforth’s brilliant mind as he devises a method to create water from sand. By supercompressing sand, he is able to extract hydrogen and oxygen, a critical breakthrough for the sustenance of his long mission.

Before launch Earth (during preparation)

Water System Malfunction

A serious malfunction occurs in Stanaforth's water generation system, putting his mission and survival at risk. Faced with this challenge, he chooses to take manual control rather than following protocols that would force him to return to Earth.

Mid-flight Spacecraft

Nebula Encounter

Stanaforth's spacecraft becomes ensnared by a vast nebula, leading to a pivotal moment of introspection. In this cosmic environment, he reflects deeply on his purpose and the nature of existence, contemplating the fragility of life and the vast expanse of the universe.

During transit Nebula

Moment of Wonder

During a poignant voiceover, Stanaforth expresses his ultimate reason for embarking on this mission: the pursuit of pure wonder. This moment highlights his dedication and sacrifice for the sake of exploration, offering insight into his emotional state.

During nebula encounter Spacecraft

Preparing for Landing

The narrative shifts as Stanaforth is seen clean-shaven and preparing for his descent onto Mars. This transformation symbolizes his commitment and readiness for the next phase of his journey as he approaches the red planet.

Before landing Mars (approaching orbit)

Landing on Mars

Stanaforth successfully lands on the barren soil of Mars, a historic moment for him and humanity. With anticipation and wonder, he steps onto the uncharted territory, realizing the significance of his achievement.

Upon arrival Mars

Reflections on Mars

As he stands on the Martian surface, Stanaforth muses about the planet's desolate existence. He ponders the idea that nothing has lived or died here, reflecting on his own existence and the possibility of living forever in this silent expanse.

After landing Mars

Characters

Explore all characters from Approaching the Unknown (2016). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Captain William Stanaforth

Captain William Stanaforth is a bold and intelligent astronaut who embarks on a solo mission to Mars, driven by a desire for exploration and discovery. He displays immense resourcefulness when faced with challenges, particularly in generating water for survival during his journey. Stanaforth's character reveals a deep introspection, showcasing his philosophical perspective on existence and the vast universe.

🧑‍🚀 Astronaut 🔬 Innovator 🌍 Explorer

Setting

Learn where and when Approaching the Unknown (2016) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

The movie centers on a futuristic setting where space travel has advanced significantly. It captures the essence of humanity's quest for knowledge and exploration as they seek to extend their reach beyond Earth.

Location

Mars

Mars, known as the Red Planet, is the fourth planet from the Sun. It is famous for its dusty red appearance due to iron oxide on its surface. As humanity's next target for colonization, Mars represents the hopes and dreams of interplanetary exploration.

🌌 Space 🪐 Planets

Themes

Discover the main themes in Approaching the Unknown (2016). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

🚀

Exploration

The theme of exploration is central to the film, as Captain Stanaforth's journey to Mars symbolizes humanity's relentless pursuit of the unknown. His solo mission highlights both the thrill and the profound isolation that comes with venturing into uncharted territory. The narrative reflects the overarching human desire to push boundaries and discover new worlds.

🌌

Solitude

Solitude is a prominent theme as Stanaforth finds himself completely alone in the vastness of space. This isolation forces him to confront his thoughts and the meaning of his mission. The film explores the emotional struggles of solitude, as well as the clarity it can bring during times of introspection.

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