Rated PG for thematic material, peril and language.
Directed by Michael Polish (Northfolk)
Starring Billy Bob Thorton, Virgina,Madsen, Bruce Dern, J.K.Simmons and Bruce Willis
The Astronaut Farmer is the emotional story about Charles Farmer’s (Billy Bob Thorton) dream to travel in space, and how that dream affects the people around him. Although once a promising astronaut, Farmer left NASA after his father committed suicide. Now, years later and determined to see his dream come true, he decides to build his own rocket in his barn. Facing foreclosure of the farm, ridicule from friends and an unhealthy interest from the government and military, his family stands beside him by constantly showing their love and support.
I will admit that throughout the film I waived between seeing Farmer as an amazing father who lets nothing stand in his way and a father that is obsessed with his own agenda. Either way, he is determined to reach his goal and shows his children the value of fulfilling a dream no matter how difficult it may be.
Don’t let the movie poster and or trailers discourage you from checking this one out, The Astronaut Farmer is a terrific story with characters that you can relate to and care about. It is also one of those movies that are well casted, from the main characters, to the kids, to the Bruce Willis cameo. I can’t wait to see it again.
SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
I have to say I was very disappointed by this “Family Movie” not being very family friendly. I thought there was way too much “adult humor.” The language was over the top and completely unnecessary. There are several “SOB’s and a couple of “S-word’s” (as well as having it written on the Judge’s paddle). There is also a waitress who repeatedly makes inappropriate comments about the size of the “rocket.” Finally, there is a scene between Farmer and Nurse Good in which they reminisce about high school when he said he would take her to the moon. She replies with, “I thought that was just about getting laid.” Family friendly??
Conversation Starter
Three Simple Questions (with Answers You May Be Looking for):
- What are some of the messages or themes you observed in this movie?
- How do you suppose we—as serious Christ-followers—should react to this movie?
- How can we move from healthy, Bible-based opinions about this movie to actually living out those opinions?
