Did this revered Technicolor sci-fi classic – distinguished by Eisenhower Era pulp magazine production design, Oompa Loompa-haired extraterrestrial intelligence, interplanetary conflict, and bug-eyed monsters – really turn out to be just one long shaggy dog story? Find out tomorrow, when we discuss “This Island Earth” (1955).
Two world-renowned atomic scientists, Dr. Carl Meacham (resonant Rex Reason, looking all the world like Stewart Granger) – referred to as “Doctor,” or by his surname – and Dr. Ruth Adams (Faith Domergue) – invariably addressed as “Ruth” – are enlisted by the high-browed Exeter (Jeff Morrow) for a hush-hush project shrouded in mysterious off-world implication. At least the title of the book Meacham is handed isn’t translated as “To Serve Man!”
Along the way, there are also some lighthearted shenanigans with the Professor from “Gilligan’s Island” and perhaps three minutes of screen time for the much-trumpeted Metaluna Mutant.
It’s telling that the film was originally released as a double-feature with “Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy.” That which reaches us when we are young is most fondly-remembered.
Share your senility in the comments section, on the next Roy’s Tie-Dye Sci-Fi Corner. Step back from your interocitor, as we livestream on Facebook! All will be consumed by flame, this Friday evening at 7:00 EDT.