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October Sky

1999 · Movie · PG · 107 min · ★ 7.7 · 81% critics

DramaHistory

Inspired by the first Sputnik launch, a coal miner’s son becomes determined to build rockets despite his father’s wishes. In a small mining town, he teams up with friends and guided by supportive teachers, turning a fascination into a real pursuit that challenges the expectations around him.

Based on Rocket Boys

Also known as Rocket Boys

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Details
Years
1999
Release date
1999-02-19
Language
English
Rated
PG
Runtime
107 min
Critic score
81/100
TMDB rating
7.7/10 (1,431 votes)
Box office
$34,698,753
Budget
$25,000,000
About

Choose this uplifting true-story drama if you love hope, perseverance, and family tension in a small-town setting; Not for you if you want a darker, non-family movie or prefer purely sports-focused inspiration like Rudy.

Pros: inspirational true story; strong performances; heartfelt family moments | Cons: cheesy at times; familiar formula; may be emotional

Themes

  • small town
  • based on novel or book
  • parent child relationship
  • satellite
  • biography
  • based on true story
  • rocket
  • west virginia
  • mining accident
  • teacher
  • coal mine
  • 1950s
  • +2 more

Awards & recognition

  • Broadcast Film Critics Association AwardBest Family Film · 1999
  • Writers Guild of America Award
  • Writers Guild of America AwardBest Adapted Screenplay · 2000 · nominated
  • Broadcast Film Critics Association AwardBest Family Film · 1999 · nominated
  • Teen Choice AwardChoice Movie - Drama · 1999 · nominated

Cast & crew

Directed by Joe Johnston