The Astronaut Farmer is a 2006 American drama film directed by Michael Polish and written by Mark and Michael Polish. The film stars Billy Bob Thornton as Charles Farmer, a former astronaut who dreams of building his own rocket and traveling to space. The plot revolves around his attempt to achieve this dream despite numerous obstacles.
The story follows Charles Farmer, a rancher and former astronaut who had to leave NASA to save his family's ranch after his father's death. Despite the odds, he remains committed to his dream of traveling to space and builds a rocket in his barn with the help of his family, including his wife Audie (played by Virginia Madsen) and their children.
As Charles nears the completion of his homemade rocket, he faces resistance and skepticism from various parties, including the government, which is concerned about the safety of his endeavor. The film explores themes of determination, following one's dreams, and the challenges faced by an individual who is willing to go to great lengths to achieve a seemingly impossible goal.
The Astronaut Farmer is a heartwarming and inspirational story about the pursuit of one's dreams and the importance of family support. It touches on the idea that no dream is too big to chase, and the movie combines elements of drama, adventure, and a bit of science fiction to tell its story.
Cast
- Billy Bob Thornton as Charles Farmer
- Virginia Madsen as Audrey "Audie" Farmer
- Max Thieriot as Shepard Farmer
- Jasper Polish as Stanley Farmer
- Logan Polish as Sunshine Farmer
- Bruce Willis as Colonel Doug Masterson, USAF (uncredited)
- Bruce Dern as Hal
- Mark Polish as FBI Agent Mathis
- Jon Gries as FBI Agent Killbourne
- Tim Blake Nelson as Kevin Munchak
- Sal Lopez as Pepe Garcia
- J. K. Simmons as FAA Administrator Jacobson
- Kiersten Warren as Phyllis
- Rick Overton as Arnold "Arnie" Millard
- Richard Edson as Sheriff "Chopper" Miller
- Elise Eberle as Madison Roberts
- Julie White as Beth Goode
- Graham Beckel as Frank
- Jay Leno as himself
- Marshall Bell as Judge Miller
- Kathleen Arc as Mrs. Harder
- Kathy Lamkin as Jodie
- Gary Houston as Dr. Livingston
Director: Michael Polish
Writers: Mark Polish, Michael Polish
Box Office Gross: $11,130,889
Distributor: Warner Bros.
Release Date: February 23, 2007
Trailer: