The Martian, starring Matt Damon, an entertaining Hollywood yarn

A bestselling book, a legendary director andan A-list actor as star:buzz has been building for The Martiansince the project was first announced.

In the titularrole, Oscar-winner MattDamon manages to be charming, self-deprecating andcocksure in his portrayal of strandedspaceman Mark Watney, who isforced tobeMacGyver, Johnny Appleseed and Mr. Wizard all rolled into one, saysCBC's Eli Glasner.

Not the typical RidleyScottprotagonist, Watney is thanks to Drew Goddard'srefreshingadaptation of Andy Weir's hit bookaneveryman and a better man.

Damon is surrounded by a strong cast,which includes Jessica Chastain, Kate Mara, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Kristen Wiig, Donald Glover andJeffDaniels.

The Martian isHollywood deliveringwhat it does best: anentertaining yarn restingon the shoulders of a likeable actor, says Glasner.Watch hisfullreview in the video above.

The Martianopens in theatres Friday.