The Day the Earth Stood Still
Reviewed by: Fergus McShane
Directed by: Scott Derrickson
Price: £19.99
[ratings]
Another year goes by, and Hollywood doles out another set of remakes. Among them, The Day the Earth Stood Still stands out, being the modern version of a cherished 1951 sci-fi cult classic. Unfortunately, this particular remake doesn’t quite live up to the status of the original.
When humanoid Klaatu arrives on Earth with a gigantic ominous robot, the end of the world is in sight, with a group of alien worlds having deemed humankind too destructive to be allowed to live.
More of a thriller than the thought-provoking, war-questioning original, The Day the Earth Stood Still runs with the idea that a modern sci-fi should first and foremost be used to provide spectacle over substance. And while the film looks utterly impressive, the message is muddled – Keanu Reeves’s Klaatu comes to Earth to stop the destruction of the environment, but he instead gives Earth another chance simply because of humanity’s ability to love. Will this really solve any of the problems humans were condemned for?
Opting to cash in by cliché rather than character, The Day the Earth Stood Still languishes in its own destruction. A pity, given that there are some great actors present (Jennifer Connelly, John Cleese and Kathy Bates) who are just not allowed to perform.
Other articles you may be interested in:
BUFORA 50th Anniversary Conference 2012
Download Back Issues!
Voodoo Visions
Over the years I have been asked repeatedly about what prompted me to get involved with a subject like the paranormal and also why did I start writing books about it; fortunately the answer is reasonably straightforward. It ties into a lifetime’s fascination with all things paranormal and supernatural, and from my perspective the words are entirely synonymous.
G.S.I Paranormal
G.S.I Paranormal U.K are professional paranormal investigators, they offer help to those experiencing spiritual activity / genuine hauntings, until recently they have kept out of the public eye, but have now decided that its time to expand our organisation & public awareness and help combat the often taboo subject of activity.
Sister Publications