What is the significance of the title October Sky?

Title. October Sky is an anagram of Rocket Boys, the title of the 1998 memoir upon which the film is based. It is also used in a period radio broadcast describing Sputnik 1 as it crossed the “October Sky”.

What happens at the end of October Sky?

The movie ends with a Space Shuttle launch and we learn that all four boys graduated college and had successful careers, with Homer eventually working for NASA. Homer’s father died of black lung, Miss Riley died of Hodgkin’s disease at the age of 31 and the Coalwood mine was shut down in 1982.

What bad words are in October Sky?

At least 2 “s” words, 12 damns, 10 hells, 7 S.O.B.’s, 2 asses, and 1 use each of “G-damn,” “God,” “Jesus,” “Swear to God” and “For God’s sakes.”

What really started the fire in October Sky?

Miss Riley figures out that what caused the fire in the forest was an airplane flare from the neighboring airport.

What happens to Miss Riley at the end of the movie?

Sadly, Miss Riley does die at a young age, though she never gives up her passion for teaching. Eventually, black lung claims Homer’s life.

Who is Homer’s hero in October Sky?

Werner von Braun
Some may also question the movie’s hero-worshiping treatment of Homer’s role model, Werner von Braun, who’s depicted as an all-American icon with no acknowledgment of his earlier career in Nazi Germany.

What actually caused the fire in October Sky?

Is October Sky a true story?

The true story of Homer Hickam, a coal miner’s son who was inspired by the first Sputnik launch to take up rocketry against his father’s wishes.

Is October Sky appropriate for middle school?

The MPAA rated October Sky PG for language, brief teen sensuality and alcohol use, and for some thematic elements.

What happened to Homer Hickam’s father?

The author’s father was named Homer Hickam Sr. As a boy, Homer Jr. was called “Sonny,” which is how Hickam referred to himself in the book. His father died in 1989, about a decade before the book and movie were released.

How old do you have to be to watch October sky?

PG
Why is October Sky rated PG? The MPAA rated October Sky PG for language, brief teen sensuality and alcohol use, and for some thematic elements.

What is wrong with Ms Riley?

Miss Riley is an attractive woman who catches the eye of Jake, but a little while after they begin dating she is diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease. Though her cancer goes into remission for a few years, Miss Riley does end up dying from it when she is 32.