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

In the titular role, Oscar-winner Matt Damon manages to be charming, self-deprecating and cocksure in his portrayal of stranded spaceman Mark Watney, who is forced to be MacGyver, Johnny Appleseed and Mr. Wizard all rolled into one, says CBC's Eli Glasner.

Not the typical Ridley Scott protagonist, Watney is – thanks to Drew Goddard's refreshing adaptation of Andy Weir's hit book – an everyman and a better man.

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

The Martian is Hollywood delivering what it does best: an entertaining yarn resting on the shoulders of a likeable actor, says Glasner. Watch his full review in the video above.