December 30, 2007

Forbidden Planet (1956)

4/5

Forbidden Planet is a 1956 sci-fi movie that clearly has more ambition than the special effects of the time could provide. But like the original King Kong, the confidence in the idea and filmmaking manages to surpass the cheesy set design, costuming, and effects. The plot concerns a crew sent to the planet Altair-4 to investigate an expedition sent 20 years prior. Yes, most of what you actually see is pretty laughable. And the acting is pretty theatrical. But look past that and you will see an incredibly thoughtful, provocative essay on mankind's hubris in a perfectly believable future. The pacing was a bit slow at first, but it accelerated quite well. I really was not a fan of the music, or the "electronic tonalities," as they're credited. It's definitely high up on my list of classic sci-fi movie for the thinking man and goes highly recommended.

IMDb link: http://imdb.com/title/tt0049223/