Films About Rockets
Films centered on rockets delve into stories of space exploration, the technological advances in rocketry, and often, the human spirit and ambition driving these explorations. These movies can range from biographical narratives and historical recountings of space missions to purely fictional tales involving space travel and the adventures or challenges that come with it. They often blend elements of science fiction, drama, and sometimes even comedy, to craft compelling stories that highlight the marvels and perils of rocketry.
“Gravity”, 2013
Director: Alfonso Cuarón
Although more about the plight of astronauts stranded in space after their shuttle is destroyed, rocket technology plays a crucial background role in this intense survival story set against the vast, silent backdrop of space.
Starring: Sandra Bullock, George Clooney, Ed Harris, Orto Ignatiussen, Phaldut Sharma, Amy Warren, Basher Savage;
Production year: 2013;
Genre: science fiction, thriller, drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 90 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,7;
More information about the film “Gravity” on the website imdb.com
“Interstellar”, 2014
Director: Christopher Nolan
This science fiction epic uses rockets and space travel as a vehicle for exploring complex themes like time, love, and survival, as astronauts embark on a mission through a wormhole in search of a new home for humanity.
Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Anne Hathaway, Jessica Chastain, Mackenzie Foy, Michael Caine, David Gyasi, Wes Bentley, Casey Affleck, John Lithgow, Matt Damon;
Production year: 2014;
Genre: science fiction, drama, adventure;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 169 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 8,7;
More information about the film “Interstellar” on the website imdb.com
“Hidden Figures”, 2016
Director: Theodore Melfi
Telling the untold story of the African American women mathematicians who played a crucial role in NASA during the early years of the U.S. space program, this film highlights the significant contributions to rocket science and space missions.
Starring: Taraji P. Henson, Octavia Spencer, Janelle Monae, Kevin Costner, Kirsten Dunst, Jim Parsons, Mahershala Ali, Aldis Hodge, Glen Powell, Kimberly Quinn;
Production year: 2016;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 127 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,8;
More information about the film “Hidden Figures” on the website imdb.com
“First Man”, 2018
Director: Damien Chazelle
A biographical drama about Neil Armstrong, the first man to walk on the Moon. The film offers a look at the personal sacrifices and risks involved in the Apollo 11 mission.
Starring: Ryan Gosling, Claire Foy, Jason Clarke, Kyle Chandler, Corey Stoll, Patrick Fugit, Christopher Abbott, Ciarán Hinds, Olivia Hamilton, Pablo Schreiber;
Production year: 2018;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 141 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “First Man” on the website imdb.com
“Rocketman”, 2019
Director: Dexter Fletcher
While not about rockets in the conventional sense, this musical fantasy is a biographical film about Elton John, whose nickname and famous song share the title. Its inclusion is a playful nod to the broader cultural impact of rockets, though it diverges from the technical or space exploration theme.
Starring: Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden, Bryce Dallas Howard, Gemma Jones, Steven Mackintosh, Tom Bennett, Matthew Illesley, Kit Connor, Charlie Rowe;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: biography, music, musical, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 121 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,3;
More information about the film “Rocketman” on the website imdb.com
These films, each in their own way, capture the human fascination with rockets and space, commemorating both the technological achievements and the personal stories of ambition, courage, and curiosity that fuel mankind's reach for the stars.
In conclusion, films about rockets have not only captivated audiences with thrilling narratives and breathtaking visuals but have also played a pivotal role in fueling our collective fascination with space exploration. Through a blend of historical recounting, speculative fiction, and technological wonder, they bridge the expansive gap between humanity and the cosmos, inviting viewers to reckon with both the daunting challenges and boundless possibilities that lie beyond our terrestrial confines. These cinematic journeys, ranging from the harrowing accounts of real-life space missions to the imaginative exploits in distant galaxies, underscore the indomitable spirit of human curiosity and resilience. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is known and venture further into the unknown, films about rockets serve as both a reflection of our achievements and a beacon of inspiration, propelling us toward the stars with an ever-renewed sense of awe and ambition.
