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'Magnificent Desolation' takes a walk on the wild side

Long before moonwalking became the domain of Michael Jackson, 12 intrepid Apollo astronauts roamed the lunar surface. Now, thanks to the in-your-face effects of the IMAX movie system and the considerable self-promotional cooperation of NASA, we can feel like we are joining those dozen men in Magnificent Desolation: Walking on the Moon 3D.

IMAX Corporation 'Magnificent Desolation' B+ The verdict: Awe-inspiring, if heavy-handedly partisan, look at lunar exploration. Director: Mark Cowen Starring: Tom Hanks, Neil Armstrong, Alan Bean, Bryan Cranston, Matt Damon Run time: 40 minutes Release date: Sept. 23, 2005 Rating: Not Rated On the web Official movie site View the trailer    Trailers require Quicktime Rate 'Magnificent Desolation'   Go see it   Make it a matinee   Wait to rent   Don't bother Voter Limit: Once per Hour View Poll Results

From the first majestic strains of James Newton Howard's unsubtle music score, there is no question about the film's partisan opinion of the value of space exploration. Elementary kids that seem to be the movie's target audience — future taxpayers, after all — will surely be swept away by the views of the ominous, craggy moonscape, seen by donning helmet-like 3-D glasses that turn viewers into junior astronauts.

Adults with more critical thinking may wonder when it was that cumbersome IMAX cameras went to the moon and how these astronaut's-eye-view shots were achieved. In fact, they are studio recreations, interspersed with re-processed authentic footage. That would not be a concern if the movie had not mentioned, then dismissed, those skeptics who believe that the moon landings were fictional and the photographic evidence was mere trickery.

Tom Hanks co-wrote and narrates the film, along with a posse of his Hollywood pals, including Paul Newman, Scott Glenn and Morgan Freeman.

While most of the film is geared to induce awe, there is also humor, like the recitation of moonwalk catch phrases that fell short of becoming memorable. And while it will surely go over the heads of tots, you have to admire a movie about sending humans to the moon that includes a photo of Jackie Gleason's Ralph Kramden.