Andy Weir
By Sean Tuohy
This Friday, the world will come together and try to save stranded astronaut Mark Watney from the Red Planet.
Andy Weir’s best-selling novel, The Martian, comes to life on Oct. 2 with famed director Ridley Scott behind the camera and Matt Damon in front of it. I was able to catch up with Weir to discuss the movie.
Sean Tuohy: When you first sat down to write The Martian did you ever think it would become Hollywood film?
Andy Weir: No, I had no idea it would even have mainstream appeal.
ST: What were your first thoughts after seeing the film? What struck you the most?
AW: I’m so happy! It's an incredible film. My favorite part was the visuals. You can't really describe a landscape in a book. You can try, but it doesn't really come across. Usually it ends up being a few really boring paragraphs. But in a visual medium, you can really show the sheer beauty of the environment, and Ridley really gave us an experience. We get to see Mars in all its glory.
ST: Matt Damon plays Mark Watney in the film. What do you think he brought to role?
AW: He absolutely nailed the character. The way he talks, his body language, everything.
ST: How did you feel the first time you saw the ads and movie posters for the movie?
AW: It was really exciting!
ST: What is next for Andy Weir?
AW: I’m working on my next book now. It's a more traditional sci-fi novel with aliens, faster-than-light travel, etc.
To learn more about Andy Weir and The Martian, listen to our podcast with the author:
You can also visit Weir’s official website, like his Facebook page, or follow him on Twitter @andyweirauthor.