entirely believable, normal American family." The New York Times described it as "definitely a film most children can enjoy." People declared it "out-of-this-world fun." Empire gave it 3/5 stars, saying it was "well-made enough to keep the family happy, but it certainly won’t challenge them." Variety was more critical, announcing that "instead of creating an eye-opening panorama, Flight of the Navigator looks through the small end of the telescope." Dave Kehr gave it 3 stars and described it as "a new high for Disney." Special effects analysis In May 2021, independent filmmaker Alan Melikdjanian released a nostalgic documentary about the film, explaining the various types of visual effects utilized to create the alien spaceship. Remake In May 2009, The Hollywood Reporter reported that Disney was readying a remake of the film. Brad Copeland was writing the script and Mandeville partners David Hoberman and Todd Lieberman would serve as producers. In November 2012, Disney hired Safety Not Guaranteeds director Colin Trevorrow and writer/producer Derek Connolly to rewrite the script. In September 2017, Walt Disney Pictures announced that a reboot of the film is in pre-production with Joe Henderson from TV's Lucifer writing the script. Shortly after the Lionsgate/Henson announcement, in November at the same year, Neill Blomkamp tweeted that Oats Studios has begun developing a reboot as its first feature film. In September 2021, it was announced that the remake was back in development with Bryce Dallas Howard set to direct and will feature a female protagonist. It will be released on Disney+. Notes and references External links 1980s science fiction adventure films 1986 films American children's adventure films American children's fantasy films American robot films American science fantasy films American science fiction adventure films Fiction about intergalactic travel Films about NASA Films about time travel Films directed by Randal Kleiser Puppet films Films scored by Alan Silvestri Films set in 1978 Films set in 1986 Films set in Florida Films shot in Florida Films shot in Norway Films set in Tokyo Films set on spacecraft Fort Lauderdale, Florida Independence Day (United States) films Walt Disney Pictures films 1980s English-language films 1980s American films