Review of The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) by Simon H — 07 Aug 2014

It might seem like a cheap, silly old sci-fi film which is easily forgotten, but the Day the Earth Stood Still has so much more to it.

As well as having the usual 'UFO lands on Earth' story to it, the film also digs deeper into the planet and the damage that its own inhabitants do to it. This move in the plot gives the story more depth to a point which makes the viewer reflect on their own understandings of the planet. This smart move not only brings a more realistic approach to the usual extra-terrestrial story, but also makes it relevant no matter on the year it is watched. Even in 2014, with all the conflict we see on the news daily, the Day the Earth Stood Still still feels modern.

It also helps that the film is made well. The models look good and fall seamlessly into the scene. There was no noticeable strings on show and the scene of the UFO's entrance opening is quite impressive to see from a 1951 movie. The movie also contains a good score which isn't too over the top but fits the scene to create the suitable atmosphere. The direction is good and produces many scenes which look better than many similar scene in movies today.

If I had to fault the movie on anything, other than the odd pacing issue, it would be the ending. There is nothing wrong with it. I just felt that it was cut short at a point that could have been expanded into at least another scene. This is just a minor gripe as many movies at that time have similar endings.

As opposed to the typical aliens land and kill the humans storyline, The Day the Earth Stood Still gives an alternative approach of the 'human looking' alien trying to blend in and deliver his message. If for anything, it should be watched purely for the message it gives.