The Real Right Stuff is a documentary film released in 2020, directed by Tom Jennings. The film is based on the book "The Right Stuff" by Tom Wolfe, and it tells the incredible true story of America's first astronauts and the birth of the U.S. space program.
The Real Right Stuff includes never-before-seen archival footage, photographs, and interviews with surviving Mercury astronauts, their wives, and NASA officials. The film also features interviews with historians and journalists who provide insights into the cultural and political context of the space race during the late 1950s and early 1960s.
The film delves into the personal stories of the seven original astronauts who were selected by NASA to be the first Americans in space. It shows their training and preparations for the mission, as well as their struggles and fears as they embarked on this dangerous and historic mission.
The Real Right Stuff also explores the role of the media in shaping public opinion and generating excitement around the space program. It features interviews with journalists who covered the space race, including Walter Cronkite, who famously covered the launch of Apollo 11.
Overall, The Real Right Stuff is a riveting and inspiring account of one of the most remarkable achievements in human history. It captures the spirit of exploration, adventure, and bravery that drove America's first astronauts to reach for the stars.