October Sky

Sometimes one dream is enough to light up the whole sky.

1999 • 107 min • Drama · History · Family

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Synopsis

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.

Our family guide

Best from age 10

Movie Knight Score

1462 reviews

100 Reviewers · 1 · 51%
77 Audience · 1461 · 49%

Inspired by the Sputnik launch, a coal miner's son in 1950s West Virginia dreams of building rockets. Despite his father's disapproval, he and his friends pursue their passion with the help of a supportive teacher, proving that even small-town kids can reach for the stars.

Violence & peril: 2/10
Language: 1/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 2/10
Romance & sensuality: 0/10
Scary moments: 3/10

Heads up

Some arguments between father and son
A tragic mining accident is depicted
Brief scenes of teen smoking and underage drinking

What it models well

Perseverance and pursuing dreams
Importance of education and mentors
Family support and reconciliation
Teamwork and friendship

Talk about it after

Following your dreams despite obstacles
The value of hard work and education
Balancing family expectations with personal aspirations
The Space Race and its impact on America

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for October Sky. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.

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Top billed cast

Director: Joe Johnston • Crew: Lewis Colick

Trailers & clips

Reviewer notes

RecommendedTrusted family reviewers
<em>'October Sky'</em> got me in the feels. I tend to (unintentionally) be a bit of a hardnose when it comes to fiction (even if a biopic) making an impact, but it does occasionally happen and this is one of those times. Weirdly too, because it is cheesy/cliché/whatever, but it worked tremendously for me.…
r96sk, TMDB Community