The Rocket: Sky High

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As a feel good movie “The Rocket” hits all the right notes. It has an endearing protagonist who tries to overcome adversities and prove his worth both to himself and the people around him. A true underdog story with the least likely wins people’s heart. 

Set in Laos the film follows the life of Ahlo  a ten-year-old full of high energy but burdened with having to prove that he is not the carrier of bad luck.  Ahlo is a twin whose sibling died during childbirth and whose grandmother proclaimed that he was cursed from the outset because of a belief that twins usually brought bad luck. As futher incidents sets out to prove that this is the case the only people who believe in Ahlo are the young girl Kia and her uncle known as “Uncle Purple”. 

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When they stumble on an annual rocket festival where top prizes lure participants to build and launch the best rocket into the sky to beseech the sky gods to bring rain, Ahlo seizes the opportunity to prove that he is not cursed after all. Beautifully filmed on location in Laos the Rocket looks superb and provides an engaging insight into this exotic land and its rich culture. The acting, especially by the main cast, is very convincing and touching. The two child protagonists are extraordinary. However the film is not devoid of flaws. For one thing the audiences are required to suspend their disbelief to truly enjoy some of the moments portrayed in the movie. If you are a big believer in logic then this is not a venture for you but if you are willing to overlook it at least for some moments then you will not be disappointed.