Life After The Navigator

"Life After The Navigator" is a heartwarming documentary that delves into the fascinating life of Joey Cramer, the pint-sized sensation who captured the hearts of millions as the intrepid navigator of the spaceship in the beloved 1986 classic, "Flight of the Navigator." As the film takes viewers on a nostalgic journey through the making of the movie and its enduring cult status, it also shines a spotlight on the tumultuous life of its young star, offering a poignant examination of the highs and lows of fame, family, and personal growth. The documentary begins by revisiting the making of "Flight of the Navigator," which told the story of a young boy named David who is abducted by an alien spaceship and embarks on an incredible adventure through space and time. The film was a groundbreaking achievement in special effects and storytelling, and its themes of self-discovery and growth continue to resonate with audiences today. As the documentary takes a closer look at the cast and crew, it's clear that the making of the movie was a joyful and collaborative experience that left a lasting impact on everyone involved. But as much as "Flight of the Navigator" remains a beloved classic, the real story of "Life After The Navigator" is the journey of its star, Joey Cramer. At the tender age of five, Cramer burst onto the scene as the charming and brave David, charming audiences with his wide-eyed innocence and irrepressible spirit. As the film's success swept the nation, Cramer found himself catapulted into the spotlight, rubbing shoulders with Hollywood royalty and jetting off on exciting new adventures. However, behind the scenes, Cramer's home life was far from idyllic. His parents, eager to capitalize on their child's newfound fame, began to push him to continue acting, often at the expense of his own happiness and well-being. As Cramer grew older, he began to chafe against the constraints of his role, feeling suffocated by the demands of the entertainment industry and the pressures of living up to his parents' high expectations. The documentary sheds light on the complexities and challenges that Cramer faced as a child star, revealing a vulnerable and sensitive young boy torn between the allure of fame and the desire for a normal home life. From his early days on the set of "Flight of the Navigator" to his struggles in school and personal relationships, Cramer opens up about the difficulties he faced in trying to navigate the cutthroat world of Hollywood. As Cramer navigates the ups and downs of his life, "Life After The Navigator" also explores the lasting impact of "Flight of the Navigator" on his family and career. From the movie's enduring box office success to the legions of fans who hold it dear, the documentary reveals how Cramer's breakthrough role continues to shape his life today. Whether he's attending nostalgic reunions or reconnecting with former castmates, Cramer is met with a mix of affection and curiosity, often leaving him feeling both thrilled and intimidated by the memories of his meteoric rise to fame. Throughout the documentary, Cramer also reflects on the lessons he's learned along the way, from the value of taking risks and trying new things to the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of external pressures. As he shares stories of his experiences, both triumphant and tumultuous, it's clear that Cramer has emerged from his childhood as a remarkable young adult, armed with a deep resilience and a sharp understanding of what truly matters in life. As the documentary draws to a close, "Life After The Navigator" leaves viewers with a lasting impression of Joey Cramer's incredible journey, from the bright-eyed child star who launched the "Flight of the Navigator" franchise to the accomplished young adult he is today. With its thoughtful and engaging portrayal of Cramer's highs and lows, "Life After The Navigator" is more than just a fascinating look at a bygone era – it's a poignant exploration of what it means to grow up, take risks, and stay true to oneself in the face of the unknown.