Sunshine

In 2050, Earth encounters a catastrophic threat as dark energy begins to destabilize the sun. This instability prompts fears of a new ice age, which could result in the extinction of all life on the planet.

To counter the dark energy threat, scientists devise an experimental stellar bomb, designed to replicate the mass of Manhattan Island. The bomb's primary purpose is to eradicate the dark energy and stabilize the sun, bringing hope to humanity's survival.

The mission to deploy the stellar bomb is entrusted to Icarus I, a prototype spacecraft equipped with advanced technology and artificial intelligence. However, the first mission ultimately ends in tragedy, leading to dire consequences for the future.

Seven years later, the crew of Icarus II embarks on a renewed attempt to save Earth. The diverse team includes physicist Dr. Robert Capa, Captain Kaneda, and other skilled members tasked with the challenging mission.

After spending 16 months in space, the crew encounters severe problems; they experience communication disruption called 'the dead zone.' With only 24 hours to send final messages to loved ones, tensions rise among the crew.

Capa struggles to communicate his feelings, accidentally delaying Mace, who grows frustrated and confronts him physically. Despite Mace's subsequent apology, the underlying animosity remains, complicating their mission dynamics.

During a crew meeting, Corazón reports that their oxygen garden has produced an excess of oxygen, which could be critical for their journey. The hope of survival is tempered by Searle's increasing obsession with the sun's brilliance, endangering himself.

As Icarus II approaches Mercury, they pick up a distress signal from Icarus I. This discovery sparks a heated debate among the crew about whether to alter their course to investigate, with Mace strongly opposing the idea.

Captain Kaneda allows Capa to voice his opinion on whether to investigate the Icarus I signal. Capa suggests that two chances might be better than one, leading to an agreement to divert the mission for a rendezvous with the previous crew.

An error in calculations regarding the heat shield results in an emergency that necessitates a spacewalk for repairs. Capa and Kaneda confront significant challenges as their communication systems falter, compounding their perilous situation.

Chaos erupts when a fire ignites in their oxygen garden due to a series of unfortunate events. Mace orders the release of stored oxygen to extinguish the flames, culminating in heartbreaking sacrifices for the sake of survival.

In the midst of the catastrophe, Captain Kaneda heroically sacrifices himself to aid the mission. As the crew grapples with the loss, they must make life-and-death decisions amidst dwindling resources and increasing despair.

When Capa and the crew reach Icarus I, they are confronted by the deranged remnants of the previous mission and their enigmatic survivor, Pinbacker. Capa faces a harrowing test, and the encounter highlights the consequences of desperation.

In a climactic moment of self-sacrifice, Capa ignites the payload, sending himself into the sun while accepting his fate. This act represents both the culmination of his courage and the hope that humanity's sacrifice was not in vain.

Back on Earth, Capa’s sister watches a final message from him, which underscores his bravery and the crew's sacrifice. As the sun shines through the clouds, it symbolizes the potential for a brighter future thanks to their successful mission.