The film follows Fred Z. Randall (played by Harland Williams), an eccentric and klutzy computer programmer with dreams of becoming an astronaut. Despite his lack of experience and clumsy nature, Fred is selected to join a NASA mission to Mars after he accidentally hacks into the space agency’s computer system and impresses the officials with his knowledge of space.
Fred’s selection to join the Mars mission comes as a shock to everyone, including his skeptical colleagues and the seasoned astronauts he will be working alongside. However, Fred is determined to prove himself and fulfill his lifelong dream of traveling to outer space.
As Fred undergoes rigorous training at NASA’s Space Camp, he struggles to adapt to the challenges of astronaut life and earn the respect of his fellow crew members. His antics and mishaps often lead to comedic situations, testing the patience of his trainers and putting his chances of going to Mars in jeopardy.
Despite the setbacks, Fred forms bonds with his fellow crew members, including the stoic Commander William Overbeck (played by William Sadler) and the beautiful, but no-nonsense, Julie Ford (played by Jessica Lundy). Together, they navigate the ups and downs of space training, facing obstacles such as weightlessness simulations, spacewalks, and zero-gravity toilets.
As the Mars mission approaches, Fred’s determination and resilience are put to the ultimate test when he must confront his fears and doubts about his own abilities. With the support of his friends and mentors, Fred overcomes his insecurities and proves that he has what it takes to be an astronaut.
In a climactic sequence, Fred and his fellow astronauts embark on their journey to Mars aboard the spacecraft Ulysses. Despite encountering a series of challenges and setbacks along the way, including a malfunctioning onboard computer and a close encounter with an asteroid, they ultimately reach their destination and make history as the first humans to set foot on the Red Planet.
The film ends on a triumphant note as Fred and his crew celebrate their successful mission and reflect on the incredible journey they have undertaken together. Fred’s dream of becoming an astronaut has finally come true, thanks to his perseverance, courage, and unwavering determination to reach for the stars.
“RocketMan” is praised for its zany humor, likable characters, and heartwarming message about following your dreams against all odds. It offers a lighthearted and entertaining take on the space exploration genre, appealing to audiences of all ages with its mix of comedy, adventure, and heartfelt moments.