Forbidden Planet (1956)

Forbidden Planet (1956) – A relief mission from Earth arrives to a very cool reception by the sole survivor of an earlier colony attempt.  There are mysteries to solve, and deadly secrets to be revealed.

Directed by Fred M. Wilcox                            Starring – Leslie Nielsen, Walter Pidgeon, Anne Francis

Something of a novelty, a science fiction movie that was given a regular movie sized budget to produce.  Science fiction wasn’t considered worth the expense, especially by the folks  at MGM.  While the movie barely broke even when it was released, the movie had an enormous impact on much of the on-screen science fiction that followed.  “Forbidden Planet” led the way for “Star Trek” and everything that has come since.

The cast was reportedly told to “take it seriously” while filming and that keeps this movie from being as hokey as a lot of the sci-fi of the era.  Given that the story is basically the same as Shakespeare’s “The Tempest”, it gives the whole production a lift.

There’s a very familiar “face” in this movie for folks who grew up watching TV in the ’60s.  Robby the Robot, who appeared in “Lost in Space” among many other places, debuts here.  He was one of the most expensive movie props ever created at the time.

One other thing may look familiar, the special effects.  MGM had closed its animation department, so it called in help from Walt Disney Co.  They are instantly recognizable to any one familiar with the Disney movies of the day.

It’s also noted for being the first appearance of a mini-skirt on the big screen, and its unusual, all electronic score.

This movie also boasts one of the best/worst movie posters of all time.  Seen here with this post, it is often listed as one of the top 10 movie posters in the history of the industry.  The problem is that it has nothing to do with the actual story of the movie!

Why You Will Like It – Great early science fiction that never falls into the trap of being campy.

Rating – **** Recommended