A bland chronology of successful launches and minor mishaps. The only dissonant note is the synthetic, heavy-panting score, which seems anxious that an alien might - just might! - decide to cling to the heat shield.

It's for diehard history buffs only, or maybe insomniacs.

The story of the first Americans in space is an endlessly fascinating one, as is any true story involving space exploration in general, but The Real Right Stuff is rote as a documentary.

Covering already well documented and adapted ground in an entertaining and innovative way, The Real Right Stuff is a familiar history lesson told in captivating fashion.