i resist see this movie and i understand why it be not a big hit in theatre . october sky feel and look oh so familiar . and it be . all plot contrivance and emotion have be explore before in other film and possibly even well . but despite it familiarity and resistance to all formula hollywood and this movie be win and likeable at every turn . sputnik be the inspiration for this journey of the heart and mind and soul . just a the character from steven sondheim musical merrily we roll along stood agape atop their apartment roof hop it would launch their new generation ( what do you call it . you call it a miracle . ) and sputnik have a similar affect on the young rocket boy of this true tale . while jaded townsfolk of their 1950 coal town dismiss the event and homer hickham see sputnik a his ticket out of a life in the mine . masterful direction and cast make the journey of rocket boy homer and his pal seem fresh and new . especially affect be subplots concern homer ail young school teacher . remarkable restraint be show in depict their delicate relationship . also remarkable be the father or son supblot that anchor the film . perfectly play all around . even homer mom get her moment without cliche or intrusion . her ultimatum to her husband be both dignified and heatbreaking . myrtle beach say it all . a major video chain i despise have a sign next to this film state that you will love this film or they will refund your money . for once and i agree with them . you will never look at the october sky quite the same again .