Adam Sandler Takes on His Most Serious Role Yet in ‘Spaceman’: Director Strives to Erase the Familiar

Known for his comedic genius, Adam Sandler ventures into uncharted territory with his latest Netflix endeavor, “Spaceman,” marking a departure from his typical fare and showcasing a newfound depth in his acting repertoire.

At the film’s premiere in Los Angeles, Sandler revealed to The Hollywood Reporter the unique challenge presented by director Johan Renck: to shed all traces of his signature persona and immerse himself fully into the character of an astronaut grappling with personal turmoil amidst an otherworldly journey.

Renck’s directive was clear: “I want to see none of Adam Sandler in there,” prompting Sandler to quip, “I hear that in my house too: ‘I want to see none of Adam Sandler.'”

Undeterred by the daunting task, Sandler embarked on a transformative journey, meticulously stripping away his trademark comedic style to embody the complex role. “He didn’t want me sounding like me, he didn’t want me making faces. It was a difficult process,” Sandler admitted.

“Spaceman” follows the story of an astronaut (portrayed by Sandler) navigating marital discord while embarking on a perilous mission to the outer reaches of the solar system. Amidst the cosmic chaos, he forges an unlikely bond with a colossal extraterrestrial arachnid, voiced by Paul Dano.

Renck, impressed by Sandler’s enthusiasm for the project, recalls their initial meeting when the actor declared, “That’s a film about me, I have to do this film.”

Drawing inspiration from comedians’ fearlessness, Renck capitalized on Sandler’s willingness to embrace vulnerability, a quality often overlooked in traditional dramatic actors. Liberated by Sandler’s collaborative spirit, Renck found the creative freedom to explore the film’s profound themes without compromise.

While “Spaceman” offers moments of absurdity, including the protagonist’s interactions with his alien companion, Renck remains steadfast in his commitment to preserve the film’s solemnity. “This is a film about regret, I don’t want that to be funny at all,” Renck asserts.

To prepare for his role, Sandler engaged in extensive research, consulting with astronauts aboard the International Space Station to glean insights into their daily routines and emotional struggles. “They told us so many cool stories, and we got to watch them float around,” Sandler recalled, eager to capture the authenticity of the astronaut experience.

For co-star Carey Mulligan, the film’s poignant narrative resonated deeply, offering a poignant reflection on love, resilience, and the pursuit of what truly matters.

“Spaceman” invites audiences on a compelling odyssey through the cosmos, blending introspective drama with otherworldly wonder. Now available in select theaters and streaming on Netflix, the film promises to captivate viewers with its exploration of the human spirit amidst the vast expanse of space.