Explorers (1985)

‘[Explorers] glides by gracefully on the charm of its three young heroes and their vividly envisioned adventure in space. It’s also a truly gentle film, one of the precious few that actually is suitable for children.’ – Los Angeles Times

A boy obsessed with 1950s science-fiction movies about aliens has a recurring dream about a blueprint, which he draws for his inventor friend. With the help of their friend, they follow it and build themselves a spaceship. Now what?

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, CHIFF is thrilled to present Explorers, the 1985 kids film by Joe Dante, the maverick American filmmaker who began making B-grade movies before moving into the Hollywood studio system. While not enjoying the same levels of success as his 1984 hit film Gremlins, Explorers is now a cult classic and recognised for how playfully it meshes Dante’s background making B-grade films, with his love of 1950s and 1960s pop culture, with a child’s perspective.

Explorers was also the film debut of Ethan Hawke and an early role for River Phoenix, playing completely against type.