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Rubikon is a 2022 science fiction movie directed by Magdalena Lauritsch, set in a near-future dystopian environment. The film's narrative follows the crew of the eponymous space station Rubikon, as they face a dire situation that forces them to make life-altering decisions. The film stars Julia Franz Richter, George Blagden, and Mark Ivanir in leading roles, establishing a small but compelling cast that invites audiences into a tense, claustrophobic setting where the stakes are exceedingly high.

The story kicks off with the aftermath of a catastrophic environmental disaster on Earth, which is presumed to have left the surface uninhabitable. This premise sets the backdrop for a survival drama that transpires on the titular space station Rubikon, which becomes a temporary refuge for the film's protagonists. The space station itself is a marvel of near-future technology, equipped to be self-sustaining with an algae-based life support system that can provide food and oxygen indefinitely, suggesting it could be a lifeline in an otherwise hopeless situation.

Julia Franz Richter plays Hanna, a dedicated and resourceful scientist on the space station. Her character grapples with the moral complexities and distress involved in the decision-making process following the disaster on Earth. Her performance encapsulates the resilience and emotional turmoil of someone who is not only concerned with survival but also the greater good and the weight of the decisions she must make.

George Blagden's character weaves into this narrative as a charming and charismatic member of the crew. Blagden brings a dynamic energy to the film, as his character must navigate personal desires, loyalty to the team, and the responsibility of their exceptional circumstances. The chemistry between the crew members, along with their interpersonal dynamics and confrontations, adds depth to the story.

Mark Ivanir's role stands out as a more seasoned and perhaps pragmatic astronaut, whose perspective on their dire situation differs significantly from his colleagues. His performance contributes to the central conflict of the film, creating a spectrum of ideologies and potential courses of action for the isolated crew. This dynamic is essential as it reflects the broader theme of the movie – the ethical and philosophical debates arising from extreme conditions where the survival of humanity is at stake.

Central to the story is the choice that the crew must make: whether to utilize the Rubikon's life support system to sustain themselves in isolation or attempt a risky return to Earth to help any possible survivors. It's a decision that tests their boundaries of hope, pragmatism, and sacrifice. This choice becomes the core ethical dilemma of the film; it's an examination of human nature when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges and the survival instinct's clash with altruism.

The Rubikon station serves not only as the crew's sanctuary but also as a crucible, intensifying the interpersonal drama and the psychological pressure that each member endures. Within the confines of the station, the movie examines themes such as isolation, the psychological impacts of confinement in space, and the fragile nature of societal norms when stripped of conventional structures and supports. This setting reinforces the movie’s overarching narrative – battling between isolationism and collectivism when faced with the survival of the human species.

The director, Magdalena Lauritsch, skillfully builds tension not just through the immediate crisis but also through the claustrophobic environment and the limited interaction between the characters. This approach helps to maintain a gripping and immersive atmosphere throughout the film. Additionally, the director explores the myriad ways in which a catastrophe can shift human relationships and the idea of leadership when traditional systems have utterly broken down.

Visually, Rubikon creates an authentic and gritty portrayal of life in space, utilizing a blend of practical effects and CGI to immerse viewers in the high-stakes environment. The movie's art direction and production design contribute substantially to the believability of the space station and hint at the advancements in technology that define the film’s setting.

Rubikon grapples with complex issues, including environmentalism, the ethical implications of scientific progress, and the resilience of human spirit in the face of global destruction. The compelling performances by the cast enhance the emotional heft of these themes, making for a thought-provoking film that seeks to engage its audience at a philosophical level all the while providing the thrills expected of a science fiction survival tale.

In conclusion, Rubikon presents a fascinating narrative filled with tension, moral decisions, and the exploration of human psychology in extreme situations. With strong performances and a thoughtfully constructed environment, the film invites viewers to reflect on what it means to be human when facing the end of the world as we know it.

Rubikon is a 2022 science fiction movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly poor reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.0 and a MetaScore of 49.