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Book details
  • Genre:PERFORMING ARTS
  • SubGenre:Film / Direction & Production
  • Language:English
  • Pages:148
  • Paperback ISBN:9798350958751

The Rocket Factory

The Making of the Rocketeer's Helmet and Rocket Pack

by Michael Possert Jr.

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Overview

With over 300 photos and images, The Rocket Factory: The Making of the Rocketeer's Helmet and Rocket Pack explains all the numerous iterations, tests and prototypes that went into the making of the iconic helmet and rocket pack. Prop maker Michael Possert Jr. takes you behind the scenes with the fabricators and designers responsible for bringing the Rocketeer character to life.

Description

In 1990, Disney filmed The Rocketeer, a movie from the comic book of the same name by Dave Stevens. A small crew from a modest company was tapped to make the Rocketeer's helmet and rocket pack on a very short deadline. The journey of those props, going from comic book design to the big screen, has never been explored. Shown for the first time is the fast-paced race to get the props finished, for director Joe Johnston, in time to shoot the movie.

About the author

Michael Possert Jr. has worked in the entertainment industry (film production, television, streaming, stop-motion animation, theme parks and music videos) for four decades working as a miniature fabricator for special and visual effects, a prop maker, art department crew leader, art direction and design. He is also known for restoration of movie props and miniatures including work on the Close Encounters of the Third Kind mothership, Terminator 2: Judgment Day stunt shotgun, Aliens dropship and, in 2019, the Prototype Four rocket pack pattern from The Rocketeer. Michael was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan and graduated from Central Michigan University with a major in film and dual minors in marketing and advertising. When not working in the entertainment industry, Michael spends his time on personal art projects, growing giant pumpkins and restoring historic homes and classic travel trailers. The Rocket Factory: The Making of The Rocketeer's Helmet and Rocket Pack is Michael's first book.

Book Reviews

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Nelson
The Rocket Factory WOW! I just finished reading The Rocket Factory by Michael Possert Jr. and can absolutely recommend this for anyone who loves the Rocketeer, movie magic, fun behind the scenes stories and tips from the heyday of Hollywood practical effects, cosplay, or even just a how-to of molding and casting your own props or sculptures! Well done Michael! Read more
Cristian
Outstanding details of iconic Rocketeer Props I am admittedly a Rocketeer fan and absolute nerd on the topic. With that said, this is an amazing book for the regular aficionado with many new details covering the story behind the classic The Rocketeer movie props: helmet, rocket pack, and harness. This book hits the sweet spot. Goes straight to the point and has plenty photos to support the story - which reads like a journey. I was taken back to the early 1990s with Michael's storytelling - and this is a book that fans and movie buffs will most certainly Enjoy. 5 stars!!! Read more
Gene
The Rocket Factory This wonderful book is the answer to many Rocketeer Fans dreams! Beautifully laid out with a detailed back history on the art from concept to creation of two incredible iconic props from one of the most beloved films of the early 90s. I’ve been waiting over 30 years for this and it was worth the wait! ~ Gene Crowell Read more
Micah
High flying fun! For the student of model making, the film buff, the maker of things in your life. For the person who tinkers, the person who dreams, and the person who loves stories about stories. This book is going to thrill you. My personal bias is that I love anything Rocketeer and I also have spent time with the author. I assure you, though, my praise is ernest and quite sincere. This is a gem of a movie book. Far more exciting than most making of books and far more honest and relevant. Enjoy! Read more