The Moonwalkers – Journey with Tom Hanks immersive documentary experience at the Lightroom in London is an overwhelmingly positive experience for its engaging visuals, powerful narration, and intense atmosphere. However, a few critical points indicate room for improvement, particularly with the venue’s layout and visitor comfort.
The experience
The documentary is an inspiring journey into the story of the Apollo missions. At times it felt like sitting on the moon itself, with stunning digital imagery and larger-than-life lunar photos leaving a lasting impression. The emotional impact of the experience is undeniable, with the vast scale of the projections moving many to awe.
However, while the visuals are captivating, the seating and viewing options could be more thoughtfully arranged to ensure every guest has an optimal vantage point.
Narration
Tom Hanks’ narration adds gravitas and an emotional connection to the story. His voice lends the exhibition a narrative richness that draws visitors in and sustains their attention. Yet, the background music and sound effects – especially the dramatic noise of rocket launches occasionally overpowered his voice. While subtitles are available, they are positioned high up on the wall, making them difficult to follow without craning your neck.
Visuals
The visuals are the undeniable highlight of the exhibition. With unseen images, news clips of Apollo missions, and jaw-dropping scenes like Apollo 11’s launch, the documentary is a feast for the senses. I particularly liked the high-resolution moonscapes, which provide an unparalleled sense of the lunar surface’s vastness and beauty.
Venue
While the Lightroom’s light and airy café and bar area are good for their relaxing atmosphere and inexpensive refreshments, the seating arrangements and overall layout inside the documentary screening space is not outstanding. The benches are a bit uncomfortable and could be more ergonomic to significantly improve the experience.
Location
The venue’s location has proven to be challenging to find, with signage and website directions inadequate.
Overall, The Moonwalkers exhibition delivers an exceptional experience that is both educational and emotionally resonant. The powerful narration by Tom Hanks, awe-inspiring visuals, and thoughtful curation of archival content make it a must-visit for space enthusiasts and those curious about humanity’s most iconic achievement. However, improvements in the venue’s seating, layout, and wayfinding would elevate the experience further.
London Mums’ rating: 4/5
Highly recommended, especially for those interested in space exploration.
Tickets
Christmas 2024-2025
13-15 December 2024 (The Moonwalkers)
19 December 2024 – 06 January 2025 (in repertory with Vogue: Inventing the Runway)
Half-term
14 February – 22 February 2025 (half term in repertory with Vogue: Inventing the Runway)
Easter
31 March – 27 April 2025 (Easter – The Moonwalkers weekday mornings and Sundays, Vogue: Inventing the Runway weekday afternoons and Saturdays)
Please check times and availability for these new booking periods here.
