Review of The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) by William Z — 17 May 2011
Joining "2001: A Space Odyssey" and "A Clockwork Orange" in terms of science-fiction films, "The Day the Earth Stood Still" is a thoughtfully engaging, fun, and philosophical film.
When a spacecraft lands in Washington D.C. and an alien named Klaatu (played by Michael Rennie) comes with an important message for the people of Earth, warning that it is of grave importance, the people begin to get hysterical.
The towering robot that accompanies him named Gort also scares the public with its aggressive properties. Klaatu befriends a young boy named Bobbie and his mother Helen, as they realize that they may be all that stands between life, or destruction.
At only 92 minutes, the film is short, yet the charm it gives forth is timeless. Unlike other apocalyptic movies, this film relies on very little special effects, and more on its cerebral undertones. Klaatu, Bobbie, and Helen are all likable characters, and even the giant robot Gort is too.
The real majesty of the picture comes in play with its plot, which as it unfolds, will leave you with a mixed bag of emotions. You'll ask yourself, "How can people be so stupid? Why do they jump to conclusions so rapidly? What will ultimately happen?" The ending is wonderfully done, but no spoilers of course.
Movies like "The Day the Earth Stood Still" that have messages that are as relevant today as they were 60 years ago are gems. I'm willing to bet that even another 100 years, it will STILL be relevant.
I HIGHLY recommend this movie, and it is now a part of my "Personal Gold Collection.".
This review of The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) was written by William Z on 17 May 2011.
The Day the Earth Stood Still has generally received very positive reviews.
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