Year: 1956
Director: Fred Sears
Country: US
Language: English
Earth vs. The Flying Saucers is a fun science fiction feature from Columbia Pictures. When released in theatres it would be part of a double feature alongside The Werewolf. This film was based on the best selling non-fiction book Flying Saucers From Outer Space by Maj. Donald Keyhoe. Critically the picture has reached an iconic status as part of the great 50's "flying saucer" subgenres that swept audiences at the time.
Extraterrestrials traveling in high-tech flying saucers contact scientist Dr. Russell Marvin (Hugh Marlowe) as part of a plan to enslave the inhabitants of Earth.
The special effects were ingeniously created by stop-motion legend Ray Harryhausen. Though the effects may seem primitive today, many film critics at the time of its release were absolutely mesmerized. Variety said "The technical effects created by Ray Harryhausen come off excellently in the Charles H. Schneer production, adding the required out-of-this-world visual touch to the screenplay."
The film is not all visual gimmicks however; as this underrated gem still has a coherent plot, written primarily by screenwriter George Worthing. Purposely choosing many familiar B-movie motifs and themes, the film-makers seem unafraid of exposing the picture's low budget or lack of star-power. Everything we know and love about 50's science fiction is here; Earth vs. The Flying Saucers is charming because it doesn't take itself too seriously.
It may not have much in the way of substance, don't watch this for any Marlon Brando-esque performances, but the film does offer some great entertainment. This is far better than any spaceman movie you'll see today, primarily because of its cheese.
No comments:
Post a Comment