‘The Astronaut Farmer’ a compelling family drama
In the gradually darkening days of late summer, the picks at the video store have been slim. , The first of the summer films will be coming out on DVD next week, but for this week, I decided to look a little farther back and review a movie I originally missed.
I’m glad I did because “The Astronaut Farmer” was both enjoyable and uplifting, proving once again you can’t judge the quality of a film by the title or even its premise.
Billy Bob Thornton (“Friday Night Lights”) stars as Charlie Farmer, a small town family man who owns a farm and has a dream of going into space with his homemade rocket. His family consisting of a teenage son, two young girls and wife Audrey (Virginia Madsen, “The Number 23”) are wonderfully supportive of his dream, both sharing his passion and helping him with the planning.
As a former military pilot who trained for his own space mission with NASA until a personal matter sidetracked him, Farmer is exceptionally knowledgeable for what needs to be done. Most members of Farmer’s hometown community are excited by his outlandish vision, and they are caught up by his easy charm. The FAA and FBI, however, are not amused by the idea of a civilian building his own rocket and attempting to launch it into space, and the agencies set up obstacles to keep Charlie’s dream from coming to fruition.
It is refreshing to watch a film about someone following his passion with a supportive family and community environment, which makes the ensuing difficulties surmountable. This film, while having an odd premise, feels familiar with a sweet country charm mirroring its star.
Thornton is cast perfectly in the role as Farmer, a man who is single-minded in his approach but not fanatical. The fact his children idolize their father and make his dream theirs reveals a beautiful family dynamic often missing in the more cynical films about dysfunctional families. Madsen’s portrayal of his wife shows an unconditional love, but with a wary, protective eye towards her husband and children’s safety.
“The Astronaut Farmer” is a motivational film without being pushy. There are some mild criticisms targeting various federal laws - namely the Patriot Act - and how they may stifle American individualism and ingenuity. However, the primary message of the film remains how the support of one’s loved ones may be the most important aspect in accomplishing one’s dreams.
A surprise cameo by an uncredited big-named actor who appeared with Thornton in another space-themed film completes the package in this surprisingly compelling family drama.
I unreservedly recommend this film to watch with your children, friends or parents since its message of never giving up on your dream is universal.
Rated PG for thematic material, peril and language.
