I.S.S.

On the International Space Station in the near future, political tensions ignite as a global conflict rages back on Earth. Ground control orders American and Russian astronauts to seize command of the station by any means, turning a scientific outpost into a stage for a dangerous power grab. Ariana DeBose stars as Dr. Kira Foster, with Chris Messina as Gordon Barrett and John Gallagher Jr. as Christian Campbell navigating the claustrophobic corridors and delicate life support systems. Orbiting above a world in chaos, the crew faces decisions that could redefine loyalty, authority, and the meaning of service in outer space. The pressure mounts as command decisions collide with personal ethics. Tensions intensify as oxygen levels dip and a solar flare threatens communications, forcing speed decisions that test trust and competence.

Directed by Gabriela Cowperthwaite from an original screenplay by Nick Shafir, I.S.S. is built on fresh material rather than adapting a novel or article. The production brings together a tense space setting and a contemporary geopolitical angle, aiming for a timely thriller vibe.

Critics highlight the tension among crew members as orders to take control collide with loyalties and ethics. The film probes command decisions, obedience costs, and how far nations should go to project power while a fragile spacefaring alliance is tested. It avoids easy answers, presenting ambiguous choices that weigh authority against human life and law against survival at 400 miles above Earth.

Set aboard an orbiting station, the story mirrors real world debates about space governance and the limits of collaboration under pressure. It asks who should wield influence in a shared frontier and what happens when politics reach orbit. The film adds to a broader conversation about balancing national interests with global responsibility in future missions.

Awards: No major nominations or wins were announced at the time of release. The performances by Ariana DeBose and Chris Messina have drawn some attention for anchoring the high tension in a contained space setting, while the cast ensemble and Cowperthwaite's directing approach have been noted by observers as a strong fit for a sci fi thriller.