Moon 44 is set in 2038. Earth's natural resources are gone and multinational corporations are mining planets in far outer space.

When Pirite wipes out several Galactic Mining mines and ore shuttles without leaving a single survivor, it becomes apparent that someone inside Galactic Mining is leaking information to Pirite. Moon 44 is the last mining operation of Galactic Mining and the last hope for Earth.

Galactic Mining faces two problems. They must find the leak and they must find fighter pilots and navigators who are willing to be "setting ducks" on Moon 44. They solve their manpower problems by sending prisoners to Moon 44 and stranding them there. They send Internal Affairs agent Felix Stone (Michael Pare) to find the leak.

Conflicts and power struggles arise as the hardened criminal fighter pilots meet their young, video game whiz kid navigators. To survive, the pilots must learn to trust ... and obey ... their navigators.

Though I'm not a space adventure fan, this ended up becoming one of my favorite movies. The subplots are intricately interwoven with the main plot, providing an intense story that will keep you thoroughly engaged. This would be a good reason for you to get the movie, but the casting really makes it a great flick.

The chemistry between the cast members is almost magical. If there has ever been perfect casting, this is an example of it. They play off each other's expressions and body language so well that the unspoken communication frequently sweeps you past the dialogue -- a psychological whitewater rapids ride.

The flight scenes through the mine canyons will have you leaning in your seat and grabbing the armrest. Robert Brown, director of special effects, did a knockout job on the flying and shooting. Actually, all the effects are fantastic, but I enjoyed the flight best.

This story engages a wide spectrum of emotions in the viewer: laughter, anger, sadness, fear, disgust, loathing and the adrenalin rush of excitement. It delivers the goods. It hooks you in the beginning and keeps you engaged until the very end.

Moon 44 is an outstanding movie. It is quality entertainment, though not suitable for children.