October Sky (Special Edition)

Generally speaking my wife and I do not go to the movies. We both agree that the overwhelming majority of films being produced today are vulgar, poorly written, and that the special effects in most are greatly overdone. We generally prefer to stay at home and watch classic movies from the 1940's and 1950's. So you can imagine our surprise when, while vacationing in a little town in New Hampshire in the fall of 1999, we came across a showing of "October Sky" at the local one screen movie house. Finally, an intelligent movie that we both were excited about seeing! We eagerly purchased our tickets and settled into this little theater for what we hoped would be a very enjoyable evening.
"October Sky" transports the audience back into a time and place that anyone under the age of 35 or so simply cannot relate to. Coalwood, WV was a "company" town where the overwhelming majority of breadwinners worked for the mining company. It was just assumed by parents and teachers alike that the vast majority of male offspring were destined to follow their dads into the dark, damp, dreary and dangerous coal mine. These working families barely scraped by with the meager wages they earned and most "owed their soul to the company store" as Tennessee Ernie Ford pointed out in his 1956 hit recording of "Sixteen Tons". Yes, hope was at a premium among the young people in Coalwood in 1957. Homer Hickham, Jr. was a senior in high school during that year and he like the rest of the nation became captivated by the novelty and promise of outer space. When he observed the Soviet satellite Sputnik pass overhead one evening he immediately knew what he wanted to do with his life. His father was less than enthusiastic about his younger sons ambitions. Fortunately, Homer and three of his buddies were inspired and encouraged by a terrific young teacher named Miss Riley. "October Sky" tells the compelling story of these four teenagers who were bound and determined to build rockets. With the help and support of many people in this close knit mining community these young men overcame inredible odds and numerous obstacles to achieve their goal of winning the National Science Fair. This is a good old fashioned heartwarming story!
I must tell you that I was absolutely captivated by some of the performances in "October Sky". Jake Gyllenheal was brilliant in his portrayal of young Homer Hickham, Jr. as was Laura Dern in the role of Miss Riley. And Chris Cooper does a superb job of playing Homer's distant and difficult dad. This movie was exceptionally well written and the photography was well "out of this world".
"October Sky" is that rare movie that you can view with the entire family. I can think of a whole host of reasons why parents would be motivated to share this great flick with their children. You will not find any unnecessary violence, sex or vulgarity. This is just a marvelous film with lots of life's lessons included. Recently I purchased the Special Edition DVD that was released in 2005. Included is a fascinating 30 minute commentary by the real Homer Hickam, Jr. During this feature the original "rocket boys" are reunited for the first time in decades. It is quite moving. I just wish that there were more movies being made like this one. Very highly recommended!

My 17 year old son recommended this movie and it was an excellent choice. Based on a true story, I learned about Sputnik and more about rockets than I had ever known. I am a fan of Laura Dern and enjoyed her portrayal of the role as Homer's teacher, encouraging Homer and his friends to reach for the stars. I have already watched the DVD several times. It makes a great family movie and I highly recommend it.

My Grandson is six and wants to build a rocket.
He watched this movie and now I am convinced,
he will build a rocket.

No gratuitous sex, violence or foul language may be disappointing for some, but we find it refreshing. It is difficult to find movies with a great story that don't offend our sensibilities. With four grandchildren ages 8-16 we are pleased that we can share this with them.

October Sky starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper and Laura Dern is a stunning and an important coming of age film based on a true story. The acting is flawless and the story of a young boy going for his dream is very inspiring. Great film to watch with family and friends, I highly recommend it, enjoy!