October Sky

Year: 1999
Director: Joe Johnston
Starring: Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Laura Dern, Chris Owen

Synopsis:

In Coalwood, West Virginia, coal mining is a way of life. But after seeing Sputnik fly over the town in 1957, Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal) sets his sights higher. Rather than work in the mine, he wants to build rockets. Inspired by one of his teachers (Laura Dern), and against his father's wishes, Homer and three friends begin making rockets. After several failures, they build a rocket that works, which leads Homer to the national science fair. Homer wins the science fair as well as a college scholarship... his ticket out of Coalwood. Based on a true story.

Review:

Even if this movie wasn't based on a true story, it would be predictable. From the time Homer expresses his wishes to do something other than dig coal, there is no doubt that he will acheive his goals. This isn't a bad movie, though. Chris Cooper turns in an excellent performance as Homer's father, trying to convince Homer that rockets are a waste of time, and that he should be working in the coal mine. Jake Gyllenhall turns in an equally good performance as Homer. It's predictable, yes, but it's still a good movie.

My Rating:
8/10