The Astronaut Farmer

FLICK Hey, let's build a rocket from scratch in our backyard and then ride it into space! Sound reasonable? I didn't think so either. One has to totally suspend disbelief from the outset to buy into this overly sentimental family-fantasy film.
It’s tough not to like Billy Bob Thornton in The Astronaut Farmer, as he plays the former astronaut and friendly farmer Charles Farmer who has fantasized of going into space since he was a child. As someone who has built a rocket of his own, (don’t ask how, just believe) Thornton creates a solid foundation for his character that could come off as delirious and wacky. Posing a threat to his dream is the US government, which seriously considers the consequences if everyone wanted to build a rocket to the moon. And why wouldn’t you want to escape and orbit the earth when the bank is threatening foreclosure and news stations from around the country are invading the peaceful countryside to interview you?
Virginia Madsen overplays her part as Thornton’s devoted wife staring at him like one of those squeezable dolls with the eyes that bug out. The two daughters (real-life daughters of co-director Michael Polish) are incredibly sweet, but Max Thieriot playing the teenage son shows some promise adding just the right amount of emotional depth while keeping his feet on the ground.
Written by the Polish brothers, Michael and Mark (and directed by Michael), the film has a polished look but is lackluster from tired cliches and a far-fetched premise. But your heart might go out to the Farmers if you’re a fan of sappy dialogue and syrupy situations that salute families who rally around the one who wants to take a tour of the world – from the heavens. By the time this is all over there will be tears running down your face. Whether they're from joy or disgust will depend on your degree of lunacy. (2007) My Score: 5 out of 10.

DVD Release Date: July 10, 2007