Longtime Local Adam Sandler Stars in Netflix’s ‘Spaceman’

By LILY TINOCO | Assistant Editor

Palisadian Adam Sandler takes a leading role in Netflix’s sci-fi drama, “Spaceman,” which will be released March 1. The film is based on the novel “Spaceman of Bohemia” by Jaroslav Kalfař.

For Kalfař, the cosmic tale had “humble origins,” according to Netflix.

“‘Spaceman’ began as a short story that I wrote in my last year of college,” he told Netflix. “Originally, it was just a punchline about an American astronaut who was stranded in orbit when he received a call from his wife asking for a divorce.”

As he expanded the piece into a full-length novel, the story became larger, becoming one of love, space, time and the author’s own family.

Now, “Spaceman” tells the tale of Jakub—played by Sandler—who, after a six-month solitary research mission to space, realizes he may not be returning to the marriage he left behind. In an attempt to fix things with his wife Lenka, Jakub is helped by a giant, spider-like creature Hanuš, who he finds hiding in his ship.

“Spaceman” is said to explore an emotional and brooding side of Sandler, even in the context of his more dramatic roles.

“I really wanted to have a performance from him that had nothing to do with the Adam Sandler we all know,” director Johan Renck said to Netflix. “I don’t think people understand how [although] he may come across as funny and sweet and all that, he’s very intelligent, really smart, profound.”

Sandler is joined by actor Paul Dano, who voices Hanuš, and Carey Mulligan, who can be seen on-screen as Lenka.

“Paul was the first thing that came up in thinking about [the creature] … He has this peculiar cadence when he’s speaking, his careful formulation of words,” Renck said of the cast. “Carey Mulligan is incredible, both in terms of her technical skills and her tremendous authenticity. I love her as Lenka. She’s such a big part of this film and does such an extraordinary job.”

Author Kalfař also went on to praise the film-adaption.

“I was completely blown away when I saw the film,” he said to Netflix. “I’ve seen it twice now. I think all the people out there who love weird things and weird art will hopefully be delighted by it.”

“Spaceman” will premiere at the “Berlinale Special” programme at the 74th Berlin International Film Festival before hitting Netflix on March 1.