Solaris (1972): The Sci-Fi Masterpiece Streaming Free on Tubi

Few films have left as lasting a mark on science fiction as Solaris, the 1972 Soviet classic directed by Andrei Tarkovsky. Now, more than five decades after its release, this iconic movie is set to reach a new generation of viewers as it becomes available to stream for free on Tubi beginning December 29. Renowned for its profound exploration of the human mind and soul, Solaris stands as a testament to the power of cinema to probe the deepest corners of our psyche.

Redefining Science Fiction

Solaris broke new ground by shifting the focus of science fiction away from futuristic technology and spectacle, instead delving into the emotional and psychological struggles of its characters. Tarkovsky, who co-wrote and directed the film, was inspired to move in this direction after feeling let down by the Western approach to the genre, including films like Stanley Kubrick ’s 2001: A Space Odyssey. Starring Donatas Banionis and Natalya Bondarchuk, the story follows a psychologist sent to a remote space station orbiting the mysterious planet Solaris. There, he confronts the tragic loss of his wife and the haunting effects of the planet’s strange influence.

The film’s plot centers on a psychologist investigating the unexplained death of a doctor and the mental breakdowns of cosmonauts aboard the station. He soon learns that the planet’s ocean acts as a sentient brain, manifesting the crew’s suppressed memories and obsessions. This unique premise allows Solaris to explore themes of grief, memory, and the limits of human understanding in a way that few other films have matched.

Critical Acclaim and Enduring Legacy

Solaris has earned praise from critics and filmmakers alike for its philosophical depth and emotional resonance. The film is a favorite of legendary director Akira Kurosawa, and it continues to receive top marks from reviewers. As film-authority.com puts it,

“…as philosophical as sci-fi gets, Solaris is a meditation, deeply rewarding on a spiritual level…”

Alternate Ending calls it,

“Perfectly immaculate, using the chilliness of the way the location is framed to offset the profoundly human story being told there.”

Epoch Times describes it as

“Easily one of the most important science fiction films of all time,”

while CineVue notes,

“Where 2001: A Space Odyssey's final act explored the limitless possibilities of human potential, the heart of Solaris' thesis is the crushing limitation of human psychological experience.”

Despite attempts to recapture its magic, including a 2002 Hollywood remake starring George Clooney, none have managed to match the original’s haunting beauty and philosophical weight. Even Steven Soderbergh’s adaptation, though following a similar storyline, couldn’t replicate the unique atmosphere and emotional impact of Tarkovsky’s vision.

Cast, Crew, and Timeless Appeal

Solaris features standout performances from Natalya Bondarchuk, Donatas Banionis, Jüri Järvet, and Vladislav Dvorzhetskiy. The screenplay, adapted from Stanislaw Lem’s novel, was crafted by Lem, Fridrikh Gorenshteyn, and Tarkovsky himself. With a runtime of 167 minutes, the film blends drama, mystery, and science fiction into a singular cinematic experience that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

As Solaris prepares to stream for free, viewers have a rare opportunity to experience a film that has shaped the landscape of science fiction and remains as relevant today as it was in 1972.