Rocket Gibraltar (1988)
A tender family drama about a grandfather, his birthday wish, and the grandchildren determined to grant it.
Rocket Gibraltar - Movie Information
- Original Title: Rocket Gibraltar
- Release Year: 1988
- Directed by: Daniel Petrie
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Family
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 2, 1988 (United States)
- Alternative Titles: O Rochedo de Gibraltar (BR), Rocket Gibraltár, a viking bárka (HU), Le patriarche (CA), El cohete de Gibraltar (ES), Viimeinen toive (FI), Ракета на Гибралтар (SU), Pogrzeb wikinga (PL), Gibraltaro raketa (LT)
- Production Companies: Columbia Pictures
- Production Countries: United States of America
Rocket Gibraltar - Plot
A man's family comes for his 77th birthday and while he loves all of his children and their children, he and his children don't exactly connect. However, he connects with his grandchildren. And he tells them what he wants for his birthday and they do what they can to give it to him.
Rocket Gibraltar - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and get a feel for this quietly moving family drama:
One unforgettable weekend, one family met some remarkable, crazy, loving people. Each other.
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Rocket Gibraltar - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Daniel Petrie
Main Cast
- Burt Lancaster
- Suzy Amis
- Patricia Clarkson
- Frances Conroy
- Sinéad Cusack
- John Glover
- Bill Pullman
- Kevin Spacey
- Nicky Bronson
- Danny Corkill
Writers
- Amos Poe
Rocket Gibraltar - FAQs
What is Rocket Gibraltar about?
Rocket Gibraltar follows Levi Rockwell, a 77-year-old patriarch, as his adult children and grandchildren gather to celebrate his birthday. While he struggles to connect with his grown kids, he bonds deeply with his grandchildren, sharing his most heartfelt wish — and they do everything they can to make it come true.
What is Levi Rockwell's birthday wish in the film?
Levi Rockwell tells his grandchildren he wants a Viking funeral — to be set adrift on a burning boat. It's a poetic, unconventional wish that captures his spirit perfectly. The grandchildren, charmed by their grandfather, take it upon themselves to honor that wish in a genuinely moving finale.
Where can you stream or watch Rocket Gibraltar?
You can rent or buy Rocket Gibraltar on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. It's also available to watch with ads on The Roku Channel, so there are plenty of ways to catch this underrated gem.
Who are the main actors in Rocket Gibraltar?
The film boasts a remarkable ensemble led by Burt Lancaster as patriarch Levi Rockwell. The supporting cast includes Patricia Clarkson, Frances Conroy, Kevin Spacey, Bill Pullman, John Glover, Suzy Amis, and Sinéad Cusack — plus a young Macaulay Culkin in one of his earliest screen appearances.
Is Rocket Gibraltar worth watching today?
Absolutely — especially for fans of quiet, character-driven family dramas. Burt Lancaster delivers one of his most tender late-career performances, and the ensemble cast is genuinely impressive. It's a gentle, emotionally resonant film that rewards patient viewers who appreciate understated storytelling over spectacle.
Was Macaulay Culkin in Rocket Gibraltar?
Yes! Macaulay Culkin appears in Rocket Gibraltar as Cy Blue Black, one of the grandchildren. It's one of his earliest film roles, predating Home Alone by two years. Seeing a young Culkin alongside Burt Lancaster is one of the film's most charming and historically interesting footnotes.
Who wrote and directed Rocket Gibraltar?
The film was directed by Daniel Petrie, a seasoned filmmaker known for his sensitive handling of family stories. The screenplay was written by Amos Poe. Together they crafted a low-key but emotionally rich portrait of generational disconnect and the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren.
What are some movies similar to Rocket Gibraltar?
If you enjoyed Rocket Gibraltar, you might also like Remember (2015), another moving drama about an elderly man and unfinished business, or Foster (2011) for its warm family dynamics. Skater Girl (2021) and The Stray (2017) also share that heartfelt, family-centered spirit the film does so well.
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