Review of October Sky (1999) by Eric On His Fantasy Quest V — 30 Oct 2008

"October Sky" is a good retelling of actual events of how a team of boys who want to escape life underground in Coalwood, West Virginia, where coal mining is king. But by October 4, 1957, when the Soviet satellite Sputnik flies overhead in the night sky, Homer Hickam Jr.'s life is changed forever. So with the help of his teacher, he and his three buddies start an amateur rocket program way out of the town limits. Even with his father's disapproval, a limited education, and a series of misfires that threaten his dreams and the town, Homer overcomes seemingly impossible odds to achieve his vision of earning his college scholarship and working in rocket science later in his lifetime. And he brought us this inspiring drama of his life, all immortalized on the screen.

Based on the real Homer Hickam Jr.'s book "Rocket Boys" and directed by Joe Johnston, "October Sky" has good acting performances. I liked Jake Gyllenhaal's young Hickam character as well as his sense of individuality. Supporting Gyllenhaal includes Laura Dern (Ms. Riley) and Chris Cooper (John Hickam), both of which were very interesting characters. The film soundtrack is so inspiring for the 1950s setting; Buddy Holly's "That'll Be The Day" and sometimes the background instrumentals really sets me in a good mood.

What can I say about "October Sky"? It's a great historical drama for all audiences to enjoy, including the 1950s-era fans and the rocket scientists of the world.