Forbidden Planet

release year: 1956
genre: sci-fi
viewing setting: home streaming 10/19/26

synopsis: A spaceship visits a faraway planet to check on a previous expedition, and finds a couple of survivors, some alien technology, and a big invisible monster.

impressions: This was pretty good old-style science fiction. It had a human race that was definitely used to space travel, but also ancient alien technology that was far superior. The old scientist they find doesn't want to leave, and actually doesn't want them there at all...and they soon learn why. I thought the science part of this science fiction was great - it was suitably awe-inspiring. There was also a notable robot that had a personality and could do all kinds of useful things. And of course a gigantic invisible monster that seemingly can't be stopped...yep. Good stuff.

acting: Leslie Nielsen is the strict captain of the ship. Walter Pidgeon is the scientist who's discovered some amazing things, but doesn't want to share them. Anne Francis is his daughter, who's never seen a man her age and is curious. Earl Holliman is a young cook who likes his liquor.

final word: Great classic science fiction with a slight horror twist.

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