Solaris

Classic Radio Sci-Fi

By: Stanislaw Lem, Hattie Naylor

Narrated by: Full Cast, Joanne Froggatt, Ron Cook

When psychologist Kris Kelvin arrives at the scientific research station hovering high above the surface of Solaris, he finds the place deserted except for two scientists, who have been driven mad by some unknown horror. The researchers had been trying to investigate the ocean planet, and probe the secrets of its alien lifeforms. But their clumsy, aggressive approach has provoked a terrifying response from the ocean, which is now confronting them with their most painful repressed thoughts and memories in human form. Kris is faced with the manifestation of his long-dead wife, Rheya, and his guilt over her suicide, but whatever is tormenting the other scientists appears to be much worse... Solaris was first published in 1961 and is a classic of modern science fiction, twice adapted for film - by Tarkovsky in 1972 and Steven Soderbergh in 2002. Stanislaw Lem’s original novel combines a gripping sci-fi ghost story with a powerful debate about guilt and the human condition. The play has an exciting soundtrack by composer Alice Trueman.© and (P)2008 BBC Audiobooks Ltd

Overall a gem

The book has very interesting ideas and is simply marvelous. Performens from rhe acters was great. I had one and only trouble overall. Not everything was clear in the audio from sounds: like sounds of closing doors sometimes sounded like a blowtorch or a fire starting.

Hauntingly beautiful

Would you listen to Classic Radio Sci-Fi again? Why?

Yes, this was very well done. Every time i listen i get something else out of it.

What other book might you compare Classic Radio Sci-Fi to and why?

Not sure about other book but this is even better than the 2002 film and i didnt think it possible.

What does Ron Cook and Joanne Froggatt bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

Nice job, characters felt so real... I could feel Kris's pain, his longing to be with his wife again.

If you were to make a film of this book, what would be the tag line be?

Can miracles be cruel?

Any additional comments?

Please make more of these adaptations, like other stanislaw lem books. Really fabulous job with this. I can listen to it over and over and over.

Classy, intelligent sci-fi

It took me a couple of reads to get into this story when I first read it. Lem is not your average sci-fi hack. Even the movie with George Clooney was difficult to watch (mainly because it, like the written story, breaks many sci-fi rules). This audio play may be the best way to experience Solaris, and to understand what is going on. It is elegantly directed and performed. It's not for whizz-bang sci-fi fans. This isn't Asimov. But if you're ready for something different, this may surprise you. If you already know Lem, it will please you.

Sci-fi far from Hollywood style

Solaris is beyond most of sci-fi stories. I mean, the writing is wit and subtle, no clichés or ordinary (and unnecessary) action-fantasy stuff. It is mainly directed to an audience who prefers substantial content instead of flourished scenes. It deals with human mind’s miseries in a very delicate way. Not for the usual sci-fi reader, but give it a chance (this dramatization is less than 2h). Besides, the cast was very well chosen, an amazing performance. The music in the background fits beautifully too, although it could be a little bit lower at some points, but nothing that would compromise this astonishing work! A five stars without restriction!

Well Done

Solaris is a creepy story that can be approached from different directions. Read it as a straight sci-fi story and it works--- if you can handle some ambiguity. It's also a philosophical examination of... well, whatever you like. You can read into it as much as you like. Or not. This dramatization beautifully captures the mood of the novel. Open to interpretation. Recommended.