Comparing Andy Weir's The Martian And The Film Interstellar

Famous author Og Mandino once said, “Failure will never overtake me if my determination to succeed is strong enough.” The theme of ‘survival at all costs’ is a dominant theme in many modern day texts, both off and on the screen. Andy Weir’s popular novel The Martian and the (2014) film Interstellar, directed by Christopher Nolan, both tell a tales of not only survival but the importance of self-belief and determination.

Left stranded alone on Mars after a failed escape attempt, The Martian’s protagonist, Mark Watney, narrates his incredible story of survival 54 million kilometres from family and earth. Psychologically strong willed, humorous and optimistic, he pushes the boundaries to succeed and return home against astronomical odds.

Written in first person, the novel delves into Watney’s psychological build. When obstacles present themselves self-belief and determination become a propulsive factor, pushing him over and above where most people would
After being lead to the secret NASA compound, Cooper is greeted by Professor Brand, a seemingly innocent character hell-bent on the human race’s survival. After a tense conversation, Cooper is unsure of whether to leave Earth in search of another planet as his family will suffer. Professor Brand drills the idea of inevitable death if he does not leave, “I’ve got kids Professer” showing the care taken in choosing to leave or to stay. “Then get out there and save them”. Cooper loves his family and would do anything for them, especially his daughter. He is determined to “save them”, and believes that he can, deciding to go on the treacherous journey through space and time. During this scene the camera angle is situated on an even level portraying the choices they both get to make and the authority that both of the characters