The Astronaut Review: Story, Cast, Rating & Final Verdict
Last updated: May 15, 2026
Movie Overview: The Astronaut
| Movie | The Astronaut |
| Release Year | 1972 |
| Director | Robert Michael Lewis |
| Genre | Drama / TV Movie / Science Fiction |
| Runtime | 73 minutes (1h 13m) |
| Language | EN |
Quick Verdict: Hit or Flop?
Is The Astronaut (1972) worth watching? According to our cinematic analysis, the film stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE with a verified audience rating of 5.9/10. Whether you're looking for the box office collection, ending explained, or parents guide, our review covers everything you need to know about this Drama.
Cast & Character Study
The performances in The Astronaut are led by Jackie Cooper . The supporting cast, including Monte Markham and Richard Anderson , provides the necessary layers to the central narrative.
movieMx Verdict: Is it Worth Your Time?
What Works in the Movie
While The Astronaut does not fully realize its potential, it still contains moments that may appeal to viewers who enjoy Drama films.
- Interesting concept or premise
- Some entertaining scenes
- Supporting cast delivers occasional highlights
What Doesn't Work
Despite its strengths, The Astronaut has a few issues that may affect the overall viewing experience, particularly in terms of pacing and narrative consistency.
- Uneven pacing in certain parts of the film
- Some predictable plot developments
- May not appeal to audiences outside the Drama fanbase
Story & Plot Summary: The Astronaut
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 1972, The Astronaut is a Drama, TV Movie, Science Fiction film directed by Robert Michael Lewis. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jackie Cooper as Kurt Anderson.
Ending Explained: The Astronaut
The Astronaut Ending Explained: An elaborate deception emerges when an American astronaut is lost on a mission to Mars. Directed by Robert Michael Lewis, this 1972 drama film stars Jackie Cooper (Kurt Anderson), alongside Monte Markham as Eddie Reese / Col. Brice Randolph, Richard Anderson as Dr. Wylie, Robert Lansing as John Phillips. Rated 5.9/10, the conclusion has sparked discussion among viewers.
What Happens at the End of The Astronaut?
An elaborate deception emerges when an American astronaut is lost on a mission to Mars. Space agency officials fearful of losing public support and government funding decide to cover up the accident by employing an exact double for the lost astronaut. The ruse begins to unravel when the wife of the lost astronaut realizes she is living with a different man. Although angered by the deception, the woman has fallen in love with the replacement and plans to keep the secret. They both have a change of heart and decide to reveal the secret when they discover a new Mars mission is underway.
Robert Michael Lewis's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Jackie Cooper (Kurt Anderson)'s journey. Space agency officials fearful of losing public support and government funding decide to cover up the accident by employing an exact double for the lost astronaut.
How Does Jackie Cooper (Kurt Anderson)'s Story End?
- Jackie Cooper: Jackie Cooper's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Monte Markham (Eddie Reese / Col. Brice Randolph): Monte Markham's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Richard Anderson (Dr. Wylie): Richard Anderson's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
What Does the Ending of The Astronaut Mean?
The ending of The Astronaut brings the narrative to a close, though viewer reception has been mixed. The resolution of Jackie Cooper's story may not satisfy all audiences.
The Astronaut Real vs. Reel: Is it Based on a True Story?
Is The Astronaut Based on a True Story?
No, The Astronaut is a work of fiction. While the drama, tv movie, science fiction film directed by Robert Michael Lewis and starring Jackie Cooper may incorporate realistic themes, the characters and plot are original creations.
Who Should Watch The Astronaut?
Consider Watching If:
- You're a completist for Drama films
- You're curious despite mixed reviews
- You have low expectations and want casual entertainment
At just 73 minutes, it's a quick watch.
The Astronaut Parents Guide & Age Rating
1972 AdvisoryWondering about The Astronaut age rating or if it's safe for kids? Here is our cinematic advisory:
⏱️ Runtime & Duration
The total runtime of The Astronaut (1972) is 73 minutes (1h 13m). Directed by Robert Michael Lewis, the film runs for 73 minutes in its complete theatrical version.
Verdict Summary
Analyzing the overall audience sentiment, verified rating of 5.9/10, and global performance metrics, The Astronaut is classified as a ABOVE AVERAGE. It remains an essential part of the 1972 cinematic calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Astronaut worth watching?
The Astronaut is definitely worth watching if you enjoy Drama movies. It has a verified rating of 5.9/10 and stands as a ABOVE AVERAGE in our box office analysis.
Where can I find The Astronaut parents guide and age rating?
The official parents guide for The Astronaut identifies it as NR. Our detailed advisory section above covers all content warnings for families.
What is the runtime of The Astronaut (1972)?
The runtime of The Astronaut (1972) is 73 minutes (approximately 1h 13m).
movieMx Verified
This review has been verified for accuracy and editorial quality by our senior cinematic analysts.
This analysis is compiled by our editorial experts using multi-source verification and audience sentiment data for maximum accuracy.
