“Cargo” (2009) is a Swiss science fiction thriller directed by Ivan Engler and Ralph Etter. Set in the year 2267, the film presents a dystopian vision of the future where Earth has become uninhabitable due to ecological collapse, and humanity now lives on overcrowded space stations orbiting the planet.

The story follows Dr. Laura Portmann (Anna Katharina Schwabroh), a young doctor who takes a job on the spaceship Kassandra to save enough money to join her sister on the distant and habitable planet Rhea. The Kassandra is on a long-haul mission to deliver cargo to Station 42, a distant space outpost. The journey will take several years, and most of the crew, including Laura, spend the majority of the trip in cryogenic sleep, waking up periodically to perform routine checks on the ship.

During one of her waking periods, Laura begins to suspect that there is more to the mission than meets the eye. She discovers that the cargo hold is not just carrying supplies, but something far more sinister. As she investigates further, she uncovers a conspiracy that could threaten the future of humanity.

As the tension mounts, Laura must navigate the claustrophobic environment of the spaceship, deal with distrust among the crew members, and uncover the truth behind the mission. The film’s atmosphere is enhanced by its dark and eerie setting, effectively capturing the isolation and danger of deep space.

“Cargo” is praised for its impressive special effects, particularly given its modest budget, and its thought-provoking storyline that explores themes of survival, corporate control, and the ethical dilemmas of scientific advancement. The film combines elements of suspense, mystery, and science fiction, making it a compelling watch for fans of the genre.