Watch Beyond the Stars

Beyond the Stars is a sci-fi drama from 1989 that tells the story of a young boy named Eric who dreams of becoming an astronaut. Eric's father, Don, is a former astronaut and now an instructor at the Kennedy Space Center. Don is a stern and demanding father, pushing Eric to excel academically and physically in order to achieve his dream. Eric is determined to follow in his father's footsteps, but he soon discovers that the road to space is fraught with challenges and obstacles.

One of the biggest obstacles Eric faces is his own fear. He is scared of the heights and the thought of flying into space terrifies him. However, his idol, legendary astronaut Zachary Shefford (Martin Sheen), inspires Eric to overcome his fear and pursue his dream. Shefford agrees to mentor Eric and takes him under his wing, teaching him the skills he needs to become an astronaut.

As Eric progresses through his training, he becomes more and more confident in his abilities. He even develops an unexpected bond with his rival, Brian (Christian Slater), who is also training to become an astronaut. Despite the tough competition, Eric and Brian discover that they share a passion for space and a love of adventure.

Beyond the Stars is not just about Eric's journey to becoming an astronaut, it also deals with deeper themes like love, loss, and the bonds between family members. Don's relationship with his son is complicated, and he struggles to find a balance between being a supportive father and a demanding instructor. When tragedy strikes the family, Don and Eric are forced to confront their feelings for each other and come to terms with their shared past.

The film's special effects are impressive for its time, and the space scenes are particularly stunning. The movie successfully captures the wonder and excitement of space exploration, as well as the danger and risks that come with it. It also explores the emotional toll that being an astronaut can take on a person, both physically and mentally.

Martin Sheen's performance as the veteran space explorer Zachary Shefford is a standout. Sheen brings a gravitas to the role and infuses the character with an air of mystery and intrigue. Christian Slater also delivers a solid performance as Brian, Eric's rival turned friend. Slater plays the character with just the right amount of swagger and vulnerability.

Beyond the Stars is a heartwarming and inspiring film that will appeal to anyone who has ever dreamed of traveling among the stars. The movie is a testament to the human spirit and the power of perseverance. It shows that with hard work, determination, and the guidance of a mentor, anyone can achieve their dreams.

Overall, Beyond the Stars is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and drama. The film does an excellent job of balancing the excitement of space travel with the emotional struggles of its characters. It is a timeless movie that still resonates today, and is sure to captivate audiences for years to come.