Synopsis
Based on the true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner's son who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to take up rocketry against his father's wishes, and eventually became a NASA scientist.
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Cast
- Laura DernMiss Riley
- Jake GyllenhaalHomer Hickam
- Chris OwenQuentin Wilson
- Chris CooperJohn Hickam
- William Lee ScottRoy Lee
- Chad LindbergO'Dell
- Natalie CanerdayElsie Hickam
- Elya BaskinIke Bykovsky
- Chris EllisPrincipal Turner
- Scott ThomasJim Hickam
Recommendations
- 88
Chicago Tribune
A family tale, in the best sense. [19 February 1999, Tempo, p.4] - 80
Slate
At its best, the movie evokes that blend of thrill and terror that comes from mixing two chemicals together without being sure that an instant later you'll still be standing there in one piece. - 80
Los Angeles Times
One of the most unfashionable movies of the new year, and one of the more appealing. [19 February 1999, Calendar, p.F-10] - 75
USA Today
The finale, which utilizes vintage home movies to show us the real people we've just seen portrayed, packs a wallop. [19 February 1999, Life, p.13E] - 75
San Francisco Chronicle
This film is family. - 75
Rolling Stone
The film is rich in period flavor and refreshingly unhip. - 70
Washington Post
Paint-by-numbers feel-gooder, in which Homer and his friends decide to win a national science fair for their little town and, ultimately, for America. - 60
Film Threat
Cooper who was so poignant in "Lone Star," gives an emotionally robust performance.
