In 2013, NASA reached a milestone when half of its new class of astronaut candidates were women. This fact caught the attention of director Liz W. Garcia, who found it both surprising and inspiring that it had taken so long to achieve such gender parity. Her curiosity about what it takes to become an astronaut led her to explore the intensely competitive nature of astronaut selection, sparking the idea for her movie set in this challenging environment.
Emma Roberts is shooting for the stars in SPACE CADET, a new movie coming July 4. pic.twitter.com/lXf2aH09Hr
— Prime Video (@PrimeVideo) April 29, 2024
The film, titled “Space Cadet,” premiered on July 4 on Prime Video. It follows the story of Rex, a party-loving Florida woman portrayed by Emma Roberts. Dreaming of space travel, Rex lacks the necessary qualifications but manages to embellish her resume with the help of her best friend. Against the odds, she secures a place in NASA’s astronaut training program.
Rex’s journey in the film showcases her unwavering determination to reach the stars, managing to impress the program’s directors despite her fabricated credentials. The film raises the question of how long she can maintain her deception.
the new poster for emma roberts new movie “space cadet” coming july 4th pic.twitter.com/DR7WweRDqk
— hourly emma (@hourlyyemma) May 29, 2024
Garcia was excited to portray Rex as an underestimated heroine, similar to characters in films like “Legally Blonde” and “Private Benjamin.” She wanted to highlight a protagonist who lacks the typical qualities associated with elite success but succeeds through an approach that is down-to-earth, inclusive, and distinctly feminine. According to Garcia, “Space Cadet” is a feel-good movie that represents a world where opportunities are open to all and women are celebrated for their contributions.
Major Points
- In 2013, NASA announced its first class of astronaut candidates with 50% women, inspiring director Liz W. Garcia.
- Garcia explored the highly competitive nature of astronaut selection, leading to her film “Space Cadet.”
- “Space Cadet,” featuring Emma Roberts, premiered on Prime Video and follows a Florida woman who fakes her resume to join NASA’s training program.
- The film highlights the protagonist’s struggle to maintain her deception while aspiring to travel to space.
- Garcia aimed to portray a feel-good, inclusive narrative, drawing comparisons to films like “Legally Blonde,” celebrating women’s achievements and potential.
Charles William III – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
