Solaris
Solaris Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Movie Overview: Solaris
| Movie | Solaris |
| Release Year | 1972 |
| Director | Andrei Tarkovsky |
| Genre | Drama / Science Fiction / Mystery |
| Runtime | 167 minutes (2h 47m) |
| Language | RU |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is Solaris (1972) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a SUPER HIT with a verified audience rating of 7.8/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in Solaris are led by Natalya Bondarchuk . The supporting cast, including Donatas Banionis and Jüri Järvet , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
Solaris stands out as a strong entry in the Drama genre. The film benefits from engaging storytelling, memorable performances, and solid production values that help keep viewers invested.
- Compelling performances from the main cast
- Strong visual storytelling and direction
- Well-structured Drama narrative
- Satisfying emotional or dramatic payoff
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, Solaris has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: Solaris
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1972, Solaris is a Drama, Science Fiction, Mystery film directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, written by Andrei Tarkovsky. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Natalya Bondarchuk as Hari.
Story Breakdown
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. A psychologist is sent to a space station orbiting a planet called Solaris to investigate the death of a doctor and the mental problems of cosmonauts on the station. He soon discovers that the water on the planet is a type of brain which brings out repressed memories and obsessions. The screenplay takes time to develop Natalya Bondarchuk's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
Narrative Structure
- Opening Hook: We meet Natalya Bondarchuk as Hari in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life. Andrei Tarkovsky builds this foundation carefully, and at a lengthy 2h 47m runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The protagonist, portrayed by Natalya Bondarchuk, undergoes a meaningful transformation, with their journey feeling earned and emotionally resonant. Supporting characters are well-developed, each serving a purpose in the narrative.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings Natalya Bondarchuk's arc to its natural conclusion. Andrei Tarkovsky's direction delivers powerfully, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
Ending Explained: Solaris
Solaris Ending Explained: Directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, Solaris resolves its central conflicts in a coherent and engaging way. The ending highlights the core drama themes developed throughout the film.
The final twist encourages viewers to reconsider earlier moments in the story, particularly in scenes involving Natalya Bondarchuk. Many viewers have praised the way the narrative builds toward its final moments.
Key Elements of the Ending
- Narrative Resolution: The main storyline reaches a clear conclusion.
- Character Development: The central characters complete meaningful arcs.
- Thematic Message: The ending reinforces the drama themes introduced earlier in the film.
The final moments of Solaris reflect the creative choices of the filmmakers and align with the tone of the narrative.
Who Should Watch Solaris?
Age Advisory: Rated PG.
Highly Recommended For:
- Fans of Drama cinema looking for quality storytelling
- Viewers who appreciate emotionally resonant character studies and meaningful themes
- Anyone seeking a well-crafted film that delivers on its promises
Be prepared for a long sit at 2h 47m.
Where to Watch Solaris Online?
Streaming Hub📺 Stream on
HBO Max
HBO Max Amazon Channel
Criterion Channel🎟️ Rent on
Amazon Video
Apple TV Store
Google Play Movies
YouTube
Fandango At Home🏷️ Buy on
Amazon VideoApple TV StoreGoogle Play MoviesYouTubeFandango At HomeSolaris Parents Guide & Age Rating
1972 AdvisoryWondering about Solaris age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of Solaris (1972) is 167 minutes (2h 47m). Directed by Andrei Tarkovsky, the film runs for 167 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 7.8/10, and global performance metrics, Solaris is classified as a SUPER HIT. It remains an essential part of the 1972 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solaris worth watching?
Solaris is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 7.8/10 and stands as a SUPER HIT in our box office analysis.
Where can I find Solaris parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for Solaris identifies it as PG. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of Solaris (1972)?
The runtime of Solaris (1972) is 167 minutes (approximately 2h 47m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
