In the last three years or so, astronomers have tentatively proposed that the anomalous dimming of Tabby’s Star in the Cygnus constellation might be caused by an “unnatural” structure.

This grand-looking Canadian feature runs with the idea to fairly absorbing effect, with maverick university professor Isaac Bruno chasing signs of extraterrestrial life in cahoots with the free-spirited student of the title—even if her view of a magical universe chafes at his doggedly materialist convictions. In both cases their behaviour is driven by the kind of tragic back story that wins Telefilm grants while supplying narrative thrust, and Patrick J. Adams is a little on the pouty-handsome side. But there’s lots to admire here, not least of all the film’s satisfying commitment to both sides of the argument—he could also have been named Giordano Newton, hint hint—and it all ends rather movingly in realms both pan-cosmic and very human. Clara is also a much more likable movie than Contact, its nearest neighbouring gas giant.