Serenity (DVD)

This movie is based on a tv series that failed to find an audience but became a cult hit when the episodes were released on dvd.
its fans tend to be bordering on fanatical and call themselves "browncoats". It is produced, written and directed by Joss Whedon, owner of one of the most entertaining and original minds in tv today. He previously brought us "Buffy" and "Angel".

Like his previous efforts, the show works because although its set on a space ship, the characters are full and vibrant. They seem like real people who react as real people would when faced with other-worldly events.The wit, one-liners and sarcasm that made Buffy so enjoyable is alao present.

Though this movie is set in space its ironically more grounded than his previous efforts. No Star Trek aliens in this "verse", just people trying to scratch a living by taking whatever work comes their way (you know smuggling, bank robberies, whatever...!)

The movie features Nathan Fillion as a burned out war-vet whos moral compass is a bit of a burden in his new profession. He plays it like Indiana Jones in space and indeed his fans have started a campaign to have him take over as Indiana Jones. He also played Caleb from Buffy. Gina Torres is his first mate (she previously appeared as Jasmine in Angel) and Adam Baldwin is the more mercenary Jayne.

My boyfriend and I watched this together, and he had not seen Firefly. He definately found it a struggle, and i found i enjoyed the film more after re-viewing Firefly. Other people I talked to love the movie without ever realising there was a tv show.
My advice is buy Firefly and Serenity together. You will love them.