The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)

As a child of the 1950s/60s, this movie will always be a classic to me, simply because in that context I can remember the real terror and panic that overcame people whenever they had a passing thought of the possibility of nuclear war.

Set in post-WWII Washington, DC, the film depicted the unease that typical citizens had when they considered the vast power available on both sides of the ocean to reduce the earth to a "burned out cinder."

Enter "Klaatu" (Michael Rennie) the alien envoy from beyond the stars, sent to give Earth a first and final warning of the folly of their warlike ways.

As the credits roll, his flying saucer is seen heading through deep space, surrounded by stars. In the first scene, the ship lands on the Mall in the heart of Washington, DC. Armed troops immediately surround the mysterious craft. Guns, tanks, and artillery are trained on the space ship, evidence of mankind's preoccupation with violent action against the unknown.

Suddenly, a door in the ship opens, a ramp slides out of its seamless side, and Klaatu, accompanied by gigantic robot "Gort" emerges. A trigger-happy soldier puts a round into Klaatu, who was holding a mysterious device, later stated to be a present for the leader of Earth. Gort’s visor lifts, revealing a malevolent, sparking beam in place of eyes. The ray strikes out against the weapons, vaporizing them. Klaatu stops Gort and is taken to the hospital to have his wound tended to.

Purloining some earth clothes, the newly-healed Klaatu rents a room with Patricia Neal, who runs a boarding house with her little son, played by Billy Gray. His mission is to bring a message to the leaders of earth -- a mission that Billy Gray is instrumental in helping him accomplish.

The film is lovingly directed by Robert Wise. The incidental music by Bernard Herrman helps establish the mood of fear and suspicion. The cinematography impressively depicts familiar sights in Washington as they appeared during the 50s. The special effects, while few, are well done and believable, even today.

Rennie’s dynamic voice makes him a credible ambassador of the interplanetary confederation. Although he never achieved superstardom, his performance is a treat to watch in this film. The robot Gort adds a dimension of menace, especially after Rennie's fateful address to the citizens of the world.

I recommend "The Day the Earth Stood Still" to those viewers who would like to know how good science fiction should be done.







Recommended: Yes