October Sky

Plot synopsis:
The film is set in Coalwood, West Virginia in the year 1957. The coal mine is the town's largest employer and almost every man living in the town works in the mines. John Hickam (Chris Cooper), the mine superintendent, loves his job and hopes that his boys, Jim (Scott Miles) and Homer (Jake Gyllenhaal), will one day join him in his mine. When it appears that Jim will receive a football scholarship to attend college, this leaves Homer to fulfill his father's dream, although his mother, Elsie (Natalie Canerday), hopes for more for her son.In October, news of the Soviet Union's rocket launch of Sputnik 1 reaches Coalwood. As the townspeople gather outside the night of the broadcast, they see the satellite orbit across the sky. Filled with awe and a belief that this may be his chance out of Coalwood, Homer sets out to build rockets of his own and enter the science fair. Initially, his family and later his classmates think he has gone crazy and is wasting his time, especially when he teams up with Quentin Wilson (Chris Owen), the school's math geek who also has an interest in rocket engineering. With the help of his friends, Roy Lee Cooke (William Lee Scott) and Sherman O'Dell (Chad Lindberg), and support from their science teacher, Miss Riley (Laura Dern), the four try out their new passion. While their first launches are failures, they begin experimenting with new fuels and rocket designs. After several successful launches, the local paper runs a story about them.The next day, they are arrested accused of having started a forest fire with a rocket that had gone astray. After John picks up Homer from the police station, Roy Lee is seen getting beat up by his stepfather, Vernon. John intervenes and rescues Roy Lee, warning the drunken man that, even though Roy Lee's father is dead, he will fight for Roy Lee as Roy Lee's father would have. In a rare display of emotion, he tells Roy Lee that Roy's father was one of the best men who ever worked for him.The arrests, along with John's lack of support, crushes the boys' dream and they abandon rocketry.After a mine disaster, John is injured while rescuing "... a dozen men [who] would have died...", though one other miner does die (Ike Bykovski). Homer drops out of high school and works the mine to provide for the family while his dad recovers.Later, Homer is inspired to look at a rocket science book Miss Riley gave him, and learns how to calculate the trajectory of a rocket. This reveals that an unrecovered rocket launched by the boys could not have caused the fire, as it was unable to travel that far. Homer and Quentin calculate the precise distance of the missing rocket and find it in a stream. The boys present their findings to Miss Riley and the school principal, Mr. Turner (Chris Ellis). Chagrined at the police, Turner identifies the offending projectile as a flare from a nearby airfield.Homer returns to school, the boys return to rocket making, and soon win a school science fair. The school decides to send Homer to the national science fair in Indianapolis, Indiana. That night, John is almost shot by a man in a black car outside. John, with Homer and Jim in tow, exits the house to see who fired. John shouts "Vernon!" realizing this was apparently revenge for the threats John gave Roy Lee's stepfather earlier. Homer and Jim express their concern about this to their father, but John passes it over, bitterly telling Homer to go "look for his suitcase" (Homer had been doing so prior to the shooting). Fed up, Homer confronts his father and a heated argument ensues. Homer storms out of the house, vowing to never return or look back.At the national science fair, Homer's display is received very well. Overnight, someone steals his de Laval nozzle, as well as his autographed picture of Wernher von Braun. Homer makes an urgent phone call home for help. Elsie implores John to end the ongoing strike so that Mr. Bolden can use the mine's machine shop to build a replacement nozzle. John initially refuses but relents when Elsie, fed up with his lack of support for their son, threatens that she will have to leave him. With the support of the town, Homer wins the top prize and is besieged with scholarship offers from colleges. He is also congratulated by his inspiration Dr. von Braun, but in the confusion does not realize the engineer's identity until after he is gone.Homer returns to Coalwood as a hero, and visits Miss Riley, who is now ill with Hodgkin's disease. He shows her the medal he has won, and she responds touchingly. A launch of their largest rocket yet (called the Miss Riley) is the last scene of the film. (In the reality of which this scene is emblematic, the rocket boys' most successful rocket reached an impressive altitude of 30,000 feet (9,100 m) higher than the summit of Mount Everest.) John finally shows up for a launch, and is given the honor of pushing the firing button. As the rocket streams upward, the film shows the view from the perspectives of many characters. As the group looks up to the rocket, John slowly puts his hand on Homer's shoulder and smiles.A series of vignettes (including footage of a Space Shuttle launch and home movie footage of the characters in the 1950s) reveal the outcome of the main characters' lives.

Tags: inspiring, home movie

Review:
The tale of Homer Hickham and his dream of creating a rocket seem so simple at first, especially when the film is set in a mining town, where the future is as clear cut as the lumps of coal in the mine.
With the encouragement of Miss Riley,(a friendly teacher), members of his father's staff, and his friends, Homer attempts to make his dream a reality.Yet as in any true to life story, there are many stops along the way.
Underneath the blue bowl of sky, rockets are placed upon a pad and launched into the stratosphere...And nothing can match the scene when Homer sees Sputnik for the first time.Yet what makes the film so endearing is the relationship between the characters.
I feel sure that, if he lands some meaty roles, he'll crack an Oscar one day...That's not to denigrate this film at all.It's a fine story, with very believable people (well, it's based upon the author's early shenanigans with rocketry), a great cast  Chris Cooper is always good, and Laura Dern is always on my watch list  with the appropriate mix of humor, pathos, excitement...and the great sound track with so many rock n roll oldies to get the feet tapping.But, this film had a very special significance for me: in 1957, I was the same age as Homer Hickham; like him, I looked up at the night stars to watch Sputnik as it scudded across the blackness; like Homer also, I experimented with rocketry in my backyard and used even the exact same chemicals for fuel; and like Homer, I also had most of my attempts end in explosive disaster!
I also met Werner von Braun, and one of the other German rocket scientists repaired a rubber band driven model plane I had (I WISH I still had that plane!) I mention this because I went into the movie with serious expectations and very much desired to see a film with authentic treatments for the nostalgia and emotions of the period.I was not disappointed.
Frankly, I don't know but I liked the story.The story is about a young man back in the Fifties who gets interested in rocketry and wants to enter that field instead of working in the coal mines as everyone else, including his father, does in this West Virginia town.
The two other key actors in the movie are Chris Cooper (the dad) and Laura Dern (the kid's teacher who encourages him all the time.)The cinematography is decent the 1950s soundtrack is fun to hear.
While jaded townsfolk of their 1950's coal town dismiss the event, Homer Hickham sees Sputnik as his ticket out of a life in the mines.Masterful direction and casting make the journey of rocket boy Homer and his pals seem fresh and new.
There is an old saying that relates to the rousing new film by Joe Johnston that goes something like this: "The man who thinks he can and the man who thinks he can't are both right."  That is a highly presumptuous statement referring to self motivating and belief in an individual, which, in this movie, stand true even after road blocks and family trouble stand in the way."October Sky" is about a young man who believes in himself named Homer Hickam, growing up in a strict, traditional family in the 1950's.
With an authentic looking time period, cinematography worth an Oscar and clips of the real life Homer and friends at the end, whom all hit it big with their dreams, especially Homer, this is the first great film of 1999..
Laura Dern also has a small role but manages it quite effectively.Moreover, much has been done to recreate the 1950s ambiance; from the costumes to the art decoration to the architecture, this movie looks and feels like it is based in the 1950s, adding to the overall viewing experience.I would recommend this for anyone looking to see a (much) better-than-average film about belief in oneself and achieving one's dreams in the face of adversity, although this movie is much more than just that.
His father is against him: his family needs money and he would like that his son will contribute to the maintenance in stead of spending time with frivolous projects; what his father doesn't understand is that the rocket means the way to have a possibility to pick out his own life and to not accept what other people have preordained to you.
I grew up in Southern West Virginia; I'm about the same age as (or maybe a year older than) Homer Hickam, author of "The Rocket Boys," the book forming the true-story basis of this heart-warming film.And so I relate closely to the West Virginia coal-mining theme, and to the stunning effect Sputnik had at that time (October 4, 1957) on all of us.
this film is very close to my heart because our batch in our college tried work out project which more innovative.we worked very late night.Lucikly we had all the support from both family and friends.we also had all technical support.On seeing this true inspirational movie i thought without any support they have created history.
so this film inspirational for those who archived also for those who want to achieve i strongly recommend everybody to see it.this movie Will definitely kindle the fire lying in your heart.jake performance is great when compared to donnie darko.he is well matured in zodiac he already became one of my favourites.all department are handled excellently acting is superb.scott miles is great as a father.so watch it and get inspired by it..
A true wholesome American story about teenagers who are interested in launching their own rocket in a rural West Virginia coal mining town, after the launch of Sputnik in 1957.Through trial, tribulations and perseverance beyond belief, they are ultimately able to achieve their goals.Jake Gyllenhaal, as the leader of the group, is excellent in the title role.
As his motivating science teacher, Laura Linney is quite good but her southern accent is over the top.There is a standout supporting performance by Chris Cooper, a head miner, who wants his son to follow in his footsteps, but gradually comes around at film's end.What makes this film so unusual for our times is that there are no bed-hopping scenes and no profanity whatsoever.
It is the epitome of an American story that is well done.Besides the science angle, we have the father-son disagreement, football scholarships as a way to escape coal mining, and the loving spirit of family.Why aren't pictures like this recognized more at award times?.
This is the true story of four boys in a coal mining town that, instead of growing up to become coal miners like their fathers, they want to do something more.
This one, however, was nothing less then good.October Sky tells the true story of Homer Hickam, a boy inspired by the Sputnick launch to become a rocket scientist.
Jake Gyllenhaal delivers a great performance as Homer Hickam and Chris Cooper is good as John Hickam.
This movie was one of the best movies in 1999, as review aggregator, Rotten Tomatoes, reports that 90% out of 72 critics gave the film a positive review, with a rating average of 7.6/10: "Rich in sweet sincerity, intelligence, and good old-fashioned inspirational drama, October Sky is a coming-of-age story with a heart to match its Hollywood craftsmanship.
Also this movie won Critics' Choice Movie Awards for Best Family Film from the Broadcast Film Critics Association in 2000.It beautifully illustrates the biography of a teen Homer who is ambitious towards rocket science and ends up to be a scientist at NASA despite of all the mishappenings he faces in life.
Full of emotions and zeal, the movie buys one a lot of encouragement to follow ones dreams.It proved very helpful to me and as it would be to all the people who have been facing a very hard time in life and not been able to do what they want to.
The plot and the acting of the cast starring Chris Cooper, Jake Gyllenhaal, Laura Dern and Chris Owen is great and hence this movie easily and beautifully connects to people who got mind-stuck in teenage.
It still stands up; along with BREAKING AWAY, it's a great coming-of-age/boy-faces-realities-of-adulthood story.The entire cast is great, but Chris Cooper is pitch perfect in the his role.Recommended to parents looking to get their teen-aged children interested in science.
He now views NASA's space program a little more realistically and perhaps not quite as positively, but this film was a true inspiration to him and a great hit with our entire family.It tells the true story of a West Virginia coal miner's son, Homer Hickam, who dreams of rocketry after seeing the USSR's Sputnik lighting up the October sky...very dramatic scene here, truly conveying his awe and wonder at the spectacle.
Will Homer succeed in time for the county science fair and win the much needed scholarship awarded as prize?I won't give the ending away, but this film is a tribute to dreaming big dreams, pursuing those dreams despite obstacles and opposition, and especially persevering.
It should serve as both an inspiration to all young people, whatever form their dreams may take, as well as a tribute to man's ongoing curiosity about our galaxy and methods for space exploration.The characters are well drawn, especially the interactions between Homer and his father, who finds himself in conflict with the son he loves, having planned for him a traditional coal mining career.
it is a good movie which is recommended by my teacher, i love it .I love the spirit of Homer, never gives up, do what he believes to be true, always pursues his dream.
i once restate this story to my younger brother,wanna to encourage him,because he is a boy like homer, born in a poor family,having his beautiful dream,loving science.
I just finished seeing this movie on ABC.At first,I didn't think nothing of it,but as I started to watch,I was immediately drawn in.A story that could so easily be redundant,cheesy,or anticlimactic,was expertly crafted in a very unique and beautiful way.Jake did such an awesome job as Homer,his pauses,expressions,frustrations,underlying pains,the hope,it felt so real,I immediately identified with myself with his character.The ensemble cast blended well together,and everyone added something to the movie.The real life video shots of the real people these actors played at the end was beautifully done,as was the final rocket launch seen by the townspeople.I'm usually not much on feel good flicks,but this movie blew me away,especially as an aspiring director,this movie was captured in the way it was meant to be told.I would see this movie again and again just for all the added pieces that are way to many to type here.Very well done!.
But, whatever you do, don't quit.A great movie to sit a pre-teen (or a teenager) down with, and an even better movie to watch as an adult for its amusing and heart-warming scenes, not to mention its endearing plotline.It may look pretty dull in the video store, but it is well worth it!Oh, and if you like the movie, check out the book ("Rocket Boys") too!.
If you ever have a chance to vote for the best movie ever., please seriously consider October Sky. I first saw it and one touched, watched it again and cried, and rented it and sobbed.
Of coarse the stunning good looks of Jake Gyllenhaal(playing as Homer Hickam Jr.) caught my eye, but the story outline was terrific.
But excellent direction, superb performances (most notably by young performers Jake Gyllenhaal and Chris Owens and the less young Chris Cooper), marvellous cinematography, a great soundtrack and beautiful script make OCTOBER SKY one of the finest films I've seen in years..
He gave off a first-class performance, as did Chris Owen (Quentin) and Chris Cooper (John Hickam).I've seen this movie about escaping the life already laid out for you twice now, and both times I thoroughly enjoyed myself..
'October Sky' is a film about a group of young boys in a troubled mid-western coal-mining village who have the dream about creating rockets.
Plus with great performances by Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper and Laura Dern who each brought their game to the film considering the important to the fact the film is based off a true story.The music is very well done along with old classic songs that are played in the film.
October Sky tells the true story of Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal).
In the wake of the first Sputnik launch Homer decides to take up rocketry without the approval of his coal miner father John (Chris Cooper).This film is a small slice of life depicting the perseverance of Homer and his friends to make something of their lives.
October Sky takes the dreams of four high school boys and inspires those who believe that you can become something bigger than the life society deems for you.The screenplay is well written, the acting top notch, and the story is bigger than the setting.
October Sky is one of the best coming-of-age films out there to watch.
The film is boasted by lovable, relatable characters, a very strong screenplay, and great direction.Joe Johnston's film is about how four guys including Homer Hickam in a coal-mining town decide to create a rocket against the will of everyone in town besides their encouraging teacher.The acting is very good.
But watching Sputnik soar through the sky overhead inspired high school student Homer Hickham (a wonderful performance by Jake Gyllenhaal) to want something more.
He along with several friends become rocket enthusiasts, dreaming of escaping the dreary little town and of doing greater things, with the support of a sympathetic high school science teacher (played by Laura Dern).I wouldn't call this a riveting movie.
So, inspiring though it may be, there's also a sadness to this movie - a sadness at a way of life that's dying, a sadness for the people who have spent their lives and sometimes given their lives (or at least their health) for the sake of that way of life.It's impressive to see the dedication that Homer and his friends showed in the face of doubts and opposition from those around them, as their rocket science experiments finally take them to the National Science Fair, and gives them the opportunity to break free of what had seemed to be their destiny.
I think every teenager should watch this film as it sets a perfect example of what you should do for a dream.I will never tire of this movie.
WHY Don't EVERYONE FOLLOW HIS DREAMS ??" the movie by itself is very well planned, following Homer and his friends' journey to the status of Rocket Boys...
In addition to having great common themes, i.e., don't give up, don't be afraid to pursue your dreams and don't be a victim of your circumstances, October Sky is an excellent example of what many fathers and sons go through together.I sat down with my son to watch this movie.
He loved the pursuit of the dream, the adventure of the boys and at the end, when Homer's father comes to watch the final rocket launch and put his arms around his boy, my son turned and looked at me and understood exactly why I wanted to watch this movie with him.
With the success of Elton John's musical version of "Billy Elliott," how long can it be before "October Sky" hits Broadway.Like Billy's tale, the story of Homer Hickam is based in fact.
you can read "Rocket Boys" before or after watching the movie, and they're still both really good.
Equally great in the movie are Chris Cooper as Homer's coal miner father, who is nervous about his son doing this, and Laura Dern as Homer's teacher, who encourages him.
This is an excellent gem of a movie; like the rockets the 'rocket boys' build, this film takes off, deftly and gently.
Was not too impressed at first until I learned it was a real life story of a man named Homer Hickam from the coal mining area of West Virginia who was more interested in rockets after he saw Sputnik.
I liked the film and the story so much, I even read the book by the real Homer Hickam called "The Rocket Boys", which was the original name of this movie but Universal decided to change it to "October Sky".
This is a wonderful film for a family to see together.October Sky is inspirational, uplifting, touching, and humorous.
Education was the way out and the way up for the boys in this town, which is a good message for all teens.This is the first time we saw Jake Gyllenhaal in a movie, and we were so impressed with him.
I saw the cover of the movie and I thought it looked inspirational the way Homer and Ms. Riley were looking up at the sky.
But this is a movie about life, specifically the true-life late 1950's story of a high-school boy named Homer who, inspired by world events and his teacher, found that his dreams were bigger than the tiny West Virginia town he grew up in.
I'm sure things didn't exactly go the same way in the real life of Homer Hickam as they did in the film adaptation of his book, Rocket Boys, but the movie "October Sky" (an anagram of the book's title) is good enough to stand alone.
The film, directed by Joe Johnston and written by Lewis Colick, records the story of teenager Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal), beginning in October of 1957.
John Hickam (Chris Cooper) believes that Homer shouldn't waste his time on the rockets, that the coal mines are all that matter.
Anyone who enjoyed this film should read the book it was based on (also called "October Sky", but originally published as "Rocket Boys").
A great film for the entire family, or just someone who loves a good movie..