When you’re a kid, there are two aspects of science that electrify the imagination: dinosaurs and outer space. "IMAX Hubble" is the type of movie that makes you feel that youthful sense of awe.
Watching this on the TV is not like watching it on an IMAX screen in 3D, but the images still have an impact. IMAX films are great because they all have a great level of patience. The shots last longer, so you can see all of the little nits and bits of a space shuttle, or you really have time to grasp the magnitude of the size of the equipment.
The film shows the journey into space to repair part of the Hubble Space Telescope. The launch into space and the spacewalks are a lot of fun to watch. The real spectacle of the documentary is showing what the telescope can see. Looking closely at a nebula and all of the budding stars is a glimpse at natural beauty that is rarely seen with such clarity.
The documentary isn’t just a slideshow about cool aspects of space. Leonardo DiCaprio leads the narration to talk about the science and narrative behind the repairs. He’s perfect for this task because he still has the boyish wonder in his voice while maintaining the professionalism to sound like an expert.
The only problem with the film is that it’s too short. Clocking in at only 45 minutes, it’s difficult to recommend for purchase, even if it is a very fun time and worth watching. It’s nice to be able to recommend something based on its spectacle without having to compromise any sort of intellectual perspective.
The DVD only has one bonus feature, which is a small look at the making of "IMAX Hubble." I found it to be very entertaining how they wanted to use this movie to add more texture to some of the amazing images found through Hubble. Once again, I only wish there was more.
Film: 4.5 Yaps Extras: 3.5 Yaps