When We Were Apollo
When We Were Apollo

Movie spotlight

When We Were Apollo

2019
Movie
80 min
English

Who were the men and women of Project Apollo? Where are they today? What do they think of the extraordinary effort they helped make possible? Coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the first moon landing in 2019, When We Were Apollo is an intimate and personal look at the Apollo Space Program through the lives and experiences of some of its most inspiring behind-the-scenes figures: engineers, technicians, builders and contractors who spent the better part of a decade working to get us to the moon and back.

Insights

IMDb7.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes85%
Metacritic70/100
Google Users92%
Director: Steven K. TsuchidaGenres: Documentary, History, Space Exploration

Plot Summary

This documentary explores the human ambition and scientific endeavor behind the Apollo space program. Through archival footage and interviews with astronauts and experts, it delves into the challenges, triumphs, and cultural impact of humanity's journey to the Moon. The film highlights the personal sacrifices and the global unity inspired by these historic missions.

Critical Reception

When We Were Apollo was generally well-received for its historical perspective and engaging narrative. Critics praised its comprehensive look at the Apollo missions, the compelling interviews, and its ability to evoke a sense of wonder and nostalgia. Audience reception was also positive, with many appreciating the educational value and the powerful storytelling.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its thorough historical account of the Apollo missions.

  • Lauded for its inspiring interviews with key figures.

  • Commended for its cinematic presentation and emotional resonance.

Google audience: Audiences loved the film's comprehensive coverage of the Apollo program, finding the interviews with astronauts particularly moving and informative. Many viewers expressed a renewed sense of awe for the space race and the achievements of the era.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Documentary or Exceptional Merit in Nonfiction Filmmaking.

Fun Fact

William Shatner's narration was reportedly recorded in a single, intense session, capturing his signature gravitas and passion for the subject matter.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review