Space Cowboys defies the conventions typical of its era’s astronaut-themed films. Instead of the usual catastrophic asteroid scenario, the film presents its heroes with the daunting task of dismantling a Soviet satellite, albeit one armed with six nuclear missiles that could jeopardize humanity.
Rather than featuring agile, muscular action heroes, the movie showcases a quartet of seasoned actors, including Clint Eastwood, who also takes on directing and producing roles, Tommy Lee Jones, Donald Sutherland, and James Garner. Alongside the imminent nuclear threat, the four must confront the looming specter of mortality, particularly in the case of Jones’ character, William “Hawk” Hawkins, who battles pancreatic cancer.
Clint Eastwood Went Through Pain During Filming
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly during the release week, the lead actors disclosed that the physical demands of portraying astronauts exacted a significant toll on them. This was particularly evident when they had to authentically portray the arduous journey of becoming astronauts.
The weighty spacesuits worn by the main actors during the filming of Space Cowboys proved to be one of the most formidable challenges. Tommy Lee Jones’ remarks alone could deter anyone from considering a career at NASA.
“The space suits were uncomfortable…They’re painful to put on, painful to take off, painful to wear. And they have little air conditioners you have to carry around which are always breaking down, and lots of hoses that are always getting kinked. They’re always biting or scratching or pinching you somewhere.”
The bulkiness of the spacesuits didn’t just create discomfort; it also resulted in various injuries for the cast. Donald Sutherland ended up with a cracked knee, and James Garner dislocated his shoulder, with Clint Eastwood stepping in to help pop it back into place. Garner’s immediate return to work, despite his ordeal, is both astonishing and a tad frightening; many would likely have passed out in his situation.
And let’s not forget the scene where the four had to reveal their backsides for the camera. Sutherland shared how embarrassing it was to perform that scene, even more so because his wife was present — and that’s coming from someone who starred in Animal House.
Clint Eastwood Delivered A Captivating Performance Despite Injuries
Despite the numerous injuries and challenges faced during the filming of Space Cowboys, the actors delivered exceptional performances, with Jones and Eastwood standing out. The friendship between Jones’ character, Hawkins, and Eastwood’s Frank Covin serves as the emotional cornerstone of the film.
In a poignant moment, Hawkins sacrifices his own life to launch the satellite into deep space, leaving his friends in solemn contemplation. This scene, with Jones’ character literally strapping himself onto a massive rocket, gains a deeper resonance when considering the hardships endured by him and his co-stars.
While there have been other films centered around astronauts, such as James Gray’s Ad Astra, it’s unlikely that many of them subjected their cast to the same degree of physical strain. Additionally, how many of these films have utilized Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me To The Moon in their closing credits, creating a haunting yet impactful cinematic experience?
Space Cowboys is available for rent or purchase on Google Play.