The First Feature Film Filmed in Space: Unveiling the Truth Behind 'Return from Orbit'

Updated on June 9, 2017 – The exploration of filmmaking beyond Earth's atmosphere has been a long-standing dream. While we often hear about plans and proposals for space films, one stands out as a landmark in cinematic history: the first feature film to be shot in space. This Russian film, "Return from Orbit" ("Возвращение с орбиты"), was filmed aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2021. However, this groundbreaking achievement was preceded by another significant space project. Let’s explore the pioneering moments of space film-making and debunk some popular misconceptions.

Breaking the Skyline: 'Return from Orbit'

"Return from Orbit," directed by Pavel Klushantsev and released in 1983/1984, was the first feature film to capture the critical moments aboard a spacecraft. The film was shot on board the Soyuz T-9 space craft and the Salyut 7 Station, showcasing the everyday life and challenges faced by astronauts in space. While the film is rare, an English-dubbed version of a Brazilian VHS copy with Portuguese subtitles is available. This historical achievement marks a new frontier in filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of where and how we tell stories.

A Claim of Space Filmage: 'Apogee of Fear'

Despite the impressive feat of "Return from Orbit," there is an ongoing debate within the film community about the first feature film to be shot in space. As of my last update, the title "Apogee of Fear" (2008) has been brought to attention. This 20-minute film was shot mostly onboard the ISS. However, critics argue that the material available may have been filmed on the ground at the Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) to ensure better quality. If "Apogee of Fear" was indeed the film in question, it should have been named and promoted accordingly.

The Immersive Zero-G Experience

The conditions of zero-gravity have long been a subject of interest in filmmaking. Significant films have successfully captured the essence of astronaut life without the need for space filming. Notable among these are:

Apollo 13 (1995): The zero-G sequences were shot using a Vomit Comet, an aircraft designed for nose-dive plummets to simulate zero-G for astronaut training. The 90-second bursts provided a convincing representation of weightlessness. 2001: A Space Odyssey (1968): Respected for its portrayal of zero-G sequences, this film was shot entirely on the ground. The creativity of the filmmakers led to iconic scenes demonstrating the weightless environment inside the spacecraft. 2010: The Year We Make Contact (1984): Another celebration of zero-G, this film sought to stay true to its predecessor but also relied on thorough ground-based filming.

The most notable scene in 2001: A Space Odyssey involves astronaut Dave Bowman drifting inside the central core of the spacecraft HAL. This was achieved by filming inside a lift shaft, lowering Bowman into a harness from above, and shooting from different angles to create the illusion of weightlessness. Another iconic scene in 2010 demonstrated the intricate use of two pens to simulate the docking of spacecraft, showcasing the ingenuity required to achieve a convincing zero-G effect.

Timeless Analog Effects

Even in the digital age of movie production, some of the classic analog effects have not been outdated. The opening title sequence of Barbarella (1968) features Jane Fonda floating in zero-G, highlighting the enduring appeal of these techniques. In one of her music videos, Kylie Minogue even replicates this sequence, further emphasizing the timeless appeal of these space-inspired movements.

Conclusion

The journey to capture the essence of zero-gravity and space filmmaking continues. While "Return from Orbit" is a monumental feat, debates about the exact first feature film shot in space continue. Meanwhile, films like Apollo 13, 2001: A Space Odyssey, and 2010, among others, have showcased the endless possibilities of capturing theatrical experiences in and through space. As technology and our understanding of zero-G conditions evolve, the future of space filmmaking is ripe with potential.