Sci-fi classic!

The Day the Earth Stood Still is a brilliant, influential landmark science fiction production that stands the test of time. Many will see the film as dated and unnecessary, but truth be told the film has lost essentially none of its original impact. It delivers an exceptional message (that couldn't have come at a better time, I might add) and ends without outstaying its welcome.

This classic story marks one of the first alien invasion films, and it set the bar for things to come.

On one seemingly normal day in Washington, the army detects and unidentified aircraft moving at incredible speed. The alien spacecraft lands in the middle of Washington, and a humanoid alien named Klaatu (Rennie) heads out into civilisation. His mission is to warn the human race about their use of atomic weapons and its threat towards life-forms from other planets.

Klaatu places himself in the typical city to orient himself with the surrounding species, and try to talk some sense into humans. If humans do not cease atomic activities, the Earth faces obliteration as they threaten peace within the solar system.

The Day the Earth Stood Still is not only one of the greatest and most innovative science fiction films in existence, but one of the best films released by Hollywood during the 1950s. The imagination of the filmmakers is incredible. Made during the period when mankind actually was experimenting with such weapons, the film delivers a strong and powerful message about its stance on the whole situation.

Although it would be impossible for aliens to threaten us as strongly as they do in the movie, it gives the audience a true perspective of the capabilities of atomic weapons.

The direction by Robert Wise is exemplary. His direction allows the movie to move at a perfect pace over the reasonably short running time of 88 minutes. There was never a dull moment for me.

The whole cast did a commendable effort in bringing their characters to life. Michael Rennie especially delivered a downright ideal performance as the humanoid alien. As the central character, he breathes live into every line delivered and has a charming screen presence.

The special effects look amazing for its time. They are still hard to fault even by today's standards. And of course the eerie, atmospheric score by Bernard Herrman suited the tone of the film superbly.

The Day the Earth Stood Still is decades ahead of its time, and is far superior to the typical invasion flicks of the 1950s. A must for science fiction buffs. Highly recommended.