i be 14 when i go to the theater back in 85 to see this movie . i remember also that i be go to go see it again but it be go . watch it again on it first run on vhs and now i own the dvd . i like what one review say about this film represent this movie be the goony of sci fi . i agree . now then and with the exception of the outer space scene and this film easily keep your interest . ethan hawke performance make you believe ben and everything he feel about space and his desire to know what out there . problem with this movie start and end with the alien scene . their behavior be too corny to enjoy and and the costume be absurd and cause a beautiful film to completely fall apart . the idea for the story however be solid and this would be a good film to be remake . the end be leave wide open for a sequel . i find myself want more story when it be over . still do . river phoenix be great a a computer nerd . film buff may also remember jason presson ( darren ) from stone boy and but not much else . all in all and those three guy play well off of each other and and it would have be nice to see them get a chance to play the character again if an explorer 2 have ever be make .