In 2014 Nolan directed , wrote , and produced the science-fiction film '' Interstellar '' . The first drafts of the script were written by Jonathan Nolan , and it was originally to be directed by Steven Spielberg . Based on the scientific theories of theoretical physicist Kip Thorne , the film follows a group of astronauts who travel through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity . '' Interstellar '' starred Matthew McConaughey , Anne Hathaway , Jessica Chastain , Bill Irwin , Michael Caine , and Ellen Burstyn , and was notably Nolan 's first collaboration with cinematographer Hoyte van Hoytema . Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros. co-financed and co-distributed the project , released on 5November 2014 to largely positive reviews and strong box office results , grossing over $ 670million worldwide . A. O. Scott wrote , in his review for '' The New York Times '' , " '' Interstellar '' , full of visual dazzle , thematic ambition ... is a sweeping , futuristic adventure driven by grief , dread and regret . " Documentary filmmaker Toni Myers said of the film , " I loved it because it tackled the most difficult part of human exploration , which is that it 's a multi-generational journey . It was a real work of art . " '' Interstellar '' was particularly praised for its scientific accuracy , which led to the publication of two scientific papers and the American Journal of Physics calling for it to be shown in school science lessons . It was named one of the best films of the year by The American Film Institute ( AFI ) . At the 87th Academy Awards , the film won Best Visual Effects and received four other nominationsBest Original Score , Best Sound Mixing , Best Sound Editing and Best Production Design
87th Academy Awards
87th Academy Awards
Christopher Nolan