October Sky

October Sky is a true -life story of West -Virginia High school student Homer Hickman (Cast by Jake Gyllenhaal) , who was inspired by the 1957 launch of Sputnik to build and launch his own rocket. Homer Hickman is on a quest to build a rocket that launches, But he fails many times and his father does not support him on his quest to build rockets. Homer still builds rockets even though his 3 friends are the only ones supporting him. Homer and his friends build a Rocket that launches into the sky really high. NewcomerGyllenhaal is extraordinary in the pivotal role of Homer more than holding his own against such seasoned talent as Cooper and Laura Dern , playing his inspirational teacher who pushes him to archieve his dream and contrasts a life-threatening illness just as Homer's plans apear to be getting off the ground.     Gyllenhaal is a natural in front of the camera, seething with rage when his father continually throws spanners (nay the whole toolbox) in the works, and bursting with pride when he and his friends snatch victory from the jaws of defeat. The other young cast members also turn in strong performances, each with his own particular hurdles to overcome during the film: bullying at school, an alcoholic and abusive father, and the death of a loved one. If the film does have any failings, it is the overly sentimental final ten minutes which are determined to pull the heartstrings as firmly, and as frequently as possible. (Reviewed By Soren and Anthony)