Review of The Quatermass Xperiment (1955) by Andy F — 31 Mar 2016

I'm glad I finally got to see one of the most influential pieces of British science fiction from the 1950's. And I'm pleased to say I wasn't disapointed.

The writing, direction and acting are all great for the time, and you can tell the film-makers have thought about what they're doing - showing just the right amount of the action and leaving the rest to the audience's imagination. This is a technique often forgotten by many film-makers, and adds nicely to the suspense; letting the watcher become more involved in what they are watching. This, coupled with the black and white film and dark, brooding cinematography helps you appreciate why this film was effective in scaring the pants off movie/goers at the time, even if it's not particularly 'scary' by today's standards.

The main character, an astronaught who becomes infected by a strange alien parasite, is excellently embodied by Richard Wordsworth, who genuinely looks emaciated, ill and terrified throughout. This gives, what could have easily fallen into 1950's 'B' Movie territory, a gravitas and reality that is enticing.

The camera shots are also well thought out; employing focus, panning, tracking and lighting effects to further throw the watcher into the uneasy setting of the film.

Overall, a very effective early science fiction film that is only equalled in my eyes by the superb original version of The Day The Earth Stood Still.

I really want to see the TV serial now!