Review of The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) by A B — 22 Feb 2009
The Day the Earth Stood Still is, in every true sense of the word, a classic--a science-fiction film that favors intelligent thought and suspense over needless, silly explosions and dumb action. Directed by Robert Wise in '51, the film is tightly paced, well shot, and intriguing, and even the special effects hold up very well.
This is the best of the "alien invasion" films that were all the rage back in the day. The score by Bernard Herrmann is effective in a subtle and creepy way, and the lead performance by Michael Rennie is absolutely perfect; detached and alienated, but without being completely inhuman.
If you enjoy old-school sci-fi this is definitely a must-see.
This review of The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951) was written by A B on 22 Feb 2009.
The Day the Earth Stood Still has generally received very positive reviews.
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