The Space Between Us

In the dystopian sci-fi film "The Space Between Us," the story revolves around Gardner Elliot, a young man born on Mars. Raised by a team of scientists at a Martian research facility, Gardner grows up in a controlled environment, never experiencing the harsh conditions of the Red Planet. Unlike his fellow Martian residents, Gardner is different; he is the first Martian-born child, a genetic freak born to a teenage girl. Growing on Mars means Gardner has a unique physiology due to the planet's lower gravity, and as such, he faces extraordinary medical challenges. The story begins on Mars with Gardner approaching his 21st birthday, a milestone that marks the end of his childhood and the beginning of adulthood. However, unlike any other Martian child, Gardner longs for the unknown, for Earth, and for a sense of belonging. His fascination with the blue planet stems from various sources: a collection of worn-out photographs, Earth-made music, and old films projected on a Martian wall. Gardner sees these as the only tangible links to the planet outside his Martian home, fueling his imagination of what Earth must be like. Understandably, Gardner's fascination with Earth triggers an overwhelming yearning for human connection, which his caretakers, Dr. Kendra Kyrios, and Dr. Van Allan, attempt to suppress. However, their efforts are futile, as Gardner continues to secretly devour knowledge on Earth from his limited library and indulge in Earth-made music. In search of answers and the chance to visit Earth, Gardner manipulates a computer database with an old-school computer he has rigged together. The young Martian attempts to schedule a flight to the planet, which Dr. Kyrios, sensing his growing unease, realizes will be his ultimate escape. After much deliberation, the research team decides to make Gardner's dreams a reality and send him to Earth. Gardner's excitement on finally boarding the spacecraft to Earth reaches incredible heights. However, unbeknownst to him, his journey is met with a mix of awe and curiosity among Earth's scientists. As Earthlings marvel at the Martian's first footsteps on their home planet, they are also aware of the complexities associated with Gardner's trip. As Gardner adapts to Earth's gravity and learns to live among people, he is introduced to Tulsa-born Tulsa, Oklahoma, high school student, Tulsa's daughter, Sophie Cook. The chance meeting brings the two together, and Sophie discovers Gardner to be unlike any stranger she has met. She helps him navigate Earth's complexities, taking him on a whirlwind tour of the planet's wonders. Sophie is also captivated by Gardner, not just as an individual but also as a symbol of humanity's potential, inspiring him to dream about an Earth beyond borders and societal conventions. As their friendship blossoms into a deeper connection, Gardner and Sophie navigate the complexities of their budding romance. Their love becomes the source of strength for both, helping them to confront the challenges they face: Gardner's Martian physiology and its implications on his life on Earth, as well as his determination to find his father, who gave him a reason to leave Mars. Back on Mars, Dr. Kyrios, struggling to conceal the truth behind Gardner's mission, faces growing suspicion from her colleagues. Her secrecy, once necessary to safeguard Gardner's Martian well-being, turns into an insurmountable burden as Earth-bound scientists become increasingly intrusive and inquisitive. Her mission, intended to protect Gardner, is now threatened by external circumstances, pushing the limits of her resolve. As Gardner and Sophie navigate their love amidst adversity, they are joined in their quest by Max Martin, a rebellious journalist on Mars, who uncovers Dr. Kyrios' deceit. Alongside Sophie, he helps Gardner uncover the truth about his past and his mysterious father. Together, they set out to reveal the hidden agenda behind Gardner's journey to Earth, putting all parties involved to the test of human trust, compassion, and acceptance. The climax reaches a tipping point as Gardner learns of his long-lost father, Nathaniel Shepherd, a renowned astronaut. Unbeknownst to Gardner, his father had left Earth before Gardner's birth, embarking on a solo mission to Mars. With Nathaniel's discovery, Gardner is finally able to reconcile his dual identity as Mars-born and Earth-residing. Their story concludes with Nathaniel returning to Earth to join Gardner and Sophie, marking the beginning of a new family unit. As the trio faces the vast unknown of their futures together, they demonstrate the enduring power of human love, acceptance, and the unbreakable bonds of a family across different worlds.