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PRODUCER: |
Michael Polish (Northfork), Mark Polish (Northfork), Len Amato (Deliver Us from Eva), Paula Weinstein (Blood Diamond, Mother-In-Law) |
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The Astronaut Farmer . . . not to be confused with next month’s Lifetime channel mini-series, The Astronaut Diaper Wearing, Kidnapping, Crazy Woman.
For anyone that’s been waiting for a movie to come out that you can take the kids to which is uplifting and inspiring, this is the movie. Billy Bob Thornton plays a character named Charles Farmer. He was an astronaut for NASA but had to quit before he ever had the chance to actually fly into space. Charles never gave up on his dream though. With the help of his wife Audie (played by Virginia Madsen) and his two kids, he sets out to build his own rocket in his barn. After a while, the bank wants to foreclose on his place, the FAA is determined to stop him from launching and the townspeople think he’s gone crazy. All of that isn’t what might stop him from seeing his dream come true. He has to overcome his own doubts before he can truly try to make his dream a reality.
The Astronaut Farmer uses an intriguing, delightful premise and extraordinary acting to deliver a noble, inspiring message. Billy Bob Thorton - as weird as the guy is – is a phenomenal actor and a joy to watch. These factors alone make the movie well worth watching. But, just so you’re forewarned, the dialogue is somewhat weak and the plot . . . well, completely ridiculous. Even Hollywood writers can’t seem to figure out how a farmer is going to actually get into space, so many of the details are noticeably dodged. Still, they manage a few great lines and a satisfying ending, making this launch a Go . . . see.
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