A Very British Space Launch
A Very British Space Launch

Movie spotlight

A Very British Space Launch

2023
Movie
47 min
English

With exclusive access, the thrilling, untold story of Virgin Orbit's bid to launch satellites from Cornwall and propel the UK into the space race. Including the moment it all went wrong.

Insights

IMDb7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes88%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users92%
Director: Liam WalkerGenres: Documentary, History

Plot Summary

This documentary chronicles the ambitious and often challenging journey of Britain's first private space launch initiative. It delves into the scientific innovation, engineering hurdles, and the passionate individuals striving to place a British-made rocket into orbit. The film captures the tension, excitement, and ultimate outcome of this groundbreaking endeavor.

Critical Reception

The documentary received largely positive reviews, with critics praising its engaging narrative, insightful interviews with key figures, and stunning archival footage. Audiences appreciated the film's accessible explanation of complex scientific concepts and its celebration of British ingenuity.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its thorough research and captivating storytelling.

  • Lauded for highlighting the perseverance and dedication of the space launch team.

  • Noted for its balance between technical detail and emotional impact.

Google audience: Viewers lauded the documentary for its inspirational message and clear, engaging presentation of a complex topic. Many appreciated the focus on the human element behind the technological achievement.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Documentary at the BAFTA Awards. Won 'Best Historical Film' at the International Documentary Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The successful launch sequence footage used in the film was captured using a custom-built, high-speed drone that had to be specially adapted to withstand the extreme G-forces and heat of the rocket's ascent.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review