October Sky
written by Lewis Colick, from the book by Homer Hickham
Homer: I just wanted to tell you how I appreciate what you did for me. I know it wasn't easy for you, so...thank you. And we're shooting off our last rocket today at 5:00 so if you'd like to come see it--
John Hickham: I got a lot of work to do.
Homer: All right. Well, I just thought I'd ask.
(Homer walks away. John Hickham calls after him after a moment.)
John Hickham: Hear you met your big hero. Didn't even know it.
(Homer walks back.)
Homer: Look, I know you and me don't exactly see eye-to-eye on certain things. I mean, man, we don't see eye-to-eye on just about anything. But Dad, I come to believe that I got it in me to be somebody in this world. And it's not because I'm so different from you either. It's 'cause I'm the same. You know, I can be as hardheaded and just as tough. I only hope I can be as good a man as you are. I mean, sure, Dr. von Braun's a great scientist, but isn't my hero.
(He walks away. John Hickham looks after his son, clearly trying to hold back his tears, and continues as he is lowered into the coal mine)