Review of The Astronaut Farmer (2007) by Ushwin P — 12 Aug 2010

This is a film about family, dreams and belief - not science.

So why make the central theme of the film about going to space I have NO idea.

The central plot is ridiculous and nonsensical in every way imaginable - obviously no technical advisor was consulted, or more likely, not needed as the central plot has nothing to do with the theme of the film. Someone simply decided space travel would be an interesting obscure counter balance to the main theme and then let it run.

Aside of the main plot, there are some nice lines and sweet moments, but this was a little too cheesy. You get the point within 10 mins, and there isn't enough to make this more than a straight to TV drama. I like films with the central themes of family and dreams, but this packaged it weakly.

This could have been much better if the dream was to drive cattle across America, to trek across the Himalayas or something more 'realistic'.

Unless of course the point is to say that dreams and a successful family are as unrealistic as successfully building, launching and piloting your own rocket (which obviously it isn't!!).

Central plot aside, having the entire story relying on a minor character dying and leaving enough money to pay off all the family's debt (a massive part of the film) and also leaving enough money to build an entire rocket and working space centre was very very weak. Almost as weak as spy films relying on someone randomly turning up to give the protagonists key information. Or as weak as fantasy films having an "and then he woke up and it was all a dream" moment.

And surprisingly weaker than Angels and Demons relying on a random Tour Guide knowing intricate details about history of art to direct Tom Hanks in the right direction.....

Good morals does not a good film make. Which is a shame because this could have been very good.

This film is 'ok'. If you want to see an amazing film about family and togetherness whilst successfully utilising a fantastical plot, then watch The Incredibles which does it effortlessly and perfectly.