Netflix Just Got the Most Accurate Sci-Fi Movie of All Time With 96% on RT

Is it really important for a science fiction movie to be accurate and believable? Probably not, as the genre's millions of fans will attest. However, careful attention to detail can create a truly futuristic space atmosphere and immerse the viewer in what is happening on screen.

Apollo 13 Is One of the Most Accurate Movies about Space

Ron Howard's movie about the failed lunar mission of the Apollo 13 spacecraft pays a lot of attention to scientific and technical aspects, which sometimes gives the viewer the feeling of watching a documentary.

The actors in the lead roles went through a full space training program – they were taught not only the basics of astrophysics, but also how to operate spacecraft on models.

The scenes on the ship that took place in weightlessness were filmed under real weightlessness conditions – NASA provided the film crew with its laboratory aircraft, which flew on a parabolic trajectory. The airplane also had two cramped cabins inside that closely mimicked the Apollo interior.

Apollo 13 Is Ron Howard's Best Film

It is not without reason that Apollo 13 is considered Howard's most successful work. It was in this movie that the director most clearly demonstrated his perfectionist qualities.

He built a plausible, consistent story in which everything was measured with precision, from the space modules to the authentic copies of the spacesuits. And he gave that story to wonderful actors – Tom Hanks, Bill Paxton, Kevin Bacon and Ed Harris.

Apollo 13 Was a Resounding Success

Apollo 13, released on June 30, 1995, was a huge worldwide success. The film grossed $355 million and received rave reviews from both audiences and critics.

Both sides praised Howard's careful handling of historical facts and the fascinating, pompous, and touching film he managed to create. The Academy, in turn, nominated the film for nine Oscars, awarding prizes only in the categories of Best Sound and Best Editing.

Apollo 13 Had a Huge Impact on the Sci-Fi Genre

But while Apollo 13 didn't win any major awards, it set a standard that still stands today. Of course, over the next 30 years, Hollywood produced a plethora of space movies, from downright silly blockbusters like Armageddon to Oscar-baiters like First Man.

But Apollo 13 remains the most balanced space movie, combining Hollywood spectacle, drama, and realism in just the right proportions.

As for Tom Hanks, even though Apollo 13 didn't win him any movie awards, the actor did win another, more unexpected award. Astronomers honored his participation in the movie by naming an asteroid after the actor.

And now you can stream Apollo 13 on Netflix.