Sci-Fi Classic Review: FORBIDDEN PLANET (1956)

[@paulmolyneux3601]

Yes, please leave this one untouched when it comes to remakes. They tried with The Day the Earth Stood Still, look how that turned out!

[@jamessweet4427]

If they tried to do a remake of FORBIDDEN PLANET, most people would say that they were ripping off STAR TREK! (except those who know its history).

[@gardener68]

The sad thing is that these stories might still have a lot to say in a modern context, but because Hollywood can't stay out of the nostalgia closet, they tend to screw it up.

[@spockboy]

Agreed. It was a complete dumpster fire.

[@dolphinsrr]

They did a remake already. It's star trek! 😂

[@raymondspada4684]

If you tinker with perfection, You ruin it !

[@valkent9866]

Agreed. It is a masterpiece, and it shouldn't be remade.

[@davidleethompsoniii8263]

Hey,,,, Did...... U NOTICE THAT THE UFO is an Earthship? LOL

[@davidleethompsoniii8263]

Fantastic Video!

[@davidleethompsoniii8263]

This is Nielsen's Break Out movie.... Out OF THIS World... LOL

[@desertrat1111]

Agree

[@michaelward9880]

If they tried to remake it, I can only imagine how screwed up it would be.

[@KonElKent]

Back when the History Channel actually tried to teach history (you remember those halcyon days?!?!) I remember watching a special about the development of robotics from the ancient legends like the Golem, through the end of the 20th Century. Without a trace of irony, many of the movers and shakers of late-20th Century robotics that were interviewed specifically pointed to Robbie the Robot as an inspiring force (while also using his following of Asimov's Three Rules as an illustration of the idea). It was my first exposure to the character.

[@charlespinzon721]

Had the privilege of seeing it as a kid in its opening release at a Loew's movie palace. Needs to be seen on the big screen!

[@inyobill]

I. Am Completely. Jealous. I saw it the first time as a summer movie presentation at Horton Elementary in San Diego. I must have been between 5th and 6th grades, so summer of '59. It scared the ever-living bejeezuss out of me. I would love to see it on a big screen.

[@johndrake5014]

If not the best, pretty darn close.

[@rsacchi100]

It is a true Science Fiction classic. It is definitely a standout of its era. At the time Science Fictions was largely considered "kids stuff". This made it difficult to convince mature audiences "Forbidden Planet" was something worth watching.

[@bryanpalmer9660]

Absolutely-I first saw this movie 45 yrs ago and it(esp the "monster") made a big impression on me and has remained one of my all-time favorite movies Auckland New Zealand 2022

[@lorzon]

This isn't the best sci-fi film of the "era". This is the best sci-fi film of all time.

[@borusa32]

My favourite sf film of the fifties and there is some good competition: This Island Earth, War of the Worlds,Day the Earth Stood Still,When Worlds Collide.

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

There’s only one of those that I haven’t covered yet, but it’s in the works!

[@trekkiedave7910]

You’re missing the greatest film of 50’s science fiction films… ‘IT: The Terror From Beyond Space’ A precursor to Alien 20 years later! A definite B-Film - but a good one - and underrated as heck!!

[@dolphinsrr]

All favorites of mine.

[@stevenpilling5318]

Still my favorite SF film. I'm just grateful that no modern filmmakers have gotten their grubby hands on it.

[@michaelcroos4713]

Rendezvous With Rama is a great novel and would make a magnificent, visionary flick!

[@jerryshunk7152]

Doesn't that translate. ' Meeting Up with Satan!'

[@inyobill]

I heard not too long ago (today is January 2023) it is in production. I hope they do it right.

[@inyobill]

@@jerryshunk7152 No. More like "An Encounter with God".

[@jerryshunk7152]

@@inyobill Perhaps YOUR God, many are called such ~~~

[@inyobill]

@@jerryshunk7152 Many what are called such what? Might as well call the Abrahamic god "The Devil", it would be just as accurate. But, as I can tell from your commens, accuracy is not your goal.

[@coyoteboy5601]

I am LOVING your reviews! Well-researched, articulate and carefully considered. You clearly adore these films. As do I.

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

Glad you like them!

[@JanetDax]

Another Star Trek connection: Warren Stevens, the doctor appeared on the episode of Star Trek, "by any other name".

[@EdMorbius46]

And a Firefly connection: in the movie spinoff, Serenity, they encounter a derelict spaceship which is labeled as 'C57D' - a subtle acknowledgment of their debt to the makers of FP.

[@IvorPresents]

Verally well said. I was six when the movie was released and my first memories of seeing it was from watching it on TV.'s Million Dollar Movie. I was around nine. and the small black and white screen was punctured by commercial breaks, but even so, I was entranced. When the guy comments about the color of the sky, I could only guess, Color TV was still a few years out of the picture. The Academy should posthumously give them the Award for best Score. for that year. I remember the commercial just before they go to the underground' city. It was like looking out the window of the first car of the NY subway system . I watched the film every time it was shown. There was nothing else like it, except for the picture book illustrations. of spaceman and robots. By the way, The Fliescher studio did a great job with animated robots, in their Superman cartoons.

[@larrydavis3645]

I just discovered your channel recently and have enjoyed your reviews of most of the films I have watched and rewatched most of my life.

[@TheRatsCast]

This is one of my favorite classic films, and I've seen it a dozen or so times.

[@darrensmith6999]

Krell Metal is the go to word for something that is bloody Tough in our house Haha

[@fredloeper8579]

Local TV would show this once a year. Never, ever missed it. We all sat quietly until the attack of the Krell monster. Still the best sound effects. I have the cd.

[@evildave42a]

I'd make that "best" argument.

[@ConsciousMigration]

I'd be comfortable saying Forbidden Planet if my favorite sci-fi movie of all time. I'm always entertained every time I watch it.

[@jeffwatkins352]

Good review with a nice credible dose of the show's roots, its contributors, and its impact on cinema that came after. AND you don't spoil the climax for those who've never seen the movie. And yes, it's a bona fide masterpiece.

[@Mary20457]

I watched this movie when I was 6 yo in the theatres and it has always been my BEST MOVIE EVER! Love Robbie the Robot and that monster from the id.

[@BammerD]

With the number of similarities, this movie could have easily been considered a prequel to Star Trek.

[@markfetherman6593]

Agreed with every word. #1 of the 50's.

[@dscarty]

The best of the era by far. And still better than most.

[@ControlTouchMaster]

This is my favorite sci-fi movie from the 1950's.

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

Mine too.

[@lorzon]

This is my favorite film period.

[@EdMorbius46]

My nom de plume says it all. Saw it on first release in New Zealand, as an impressionable 11 year old. And what an impression it left. The Barron's contribution alone rendered this film unique, and possibly kicked off my lifetime interest in soundtrack music (aided by some standout soundtracks around that time from Elmer Bernstein and Ernest Gold - Magnificent 7 and Exodus, respectively).

[@billhumiston9888]

Another close parallel between this film and modern TV was “Babylon 5“ and it’s Epsilon III machine planet.

[@art-of-techno]

I loved this film when i was a child. Today, i have trouble re-watching it because i feel like laughing every time i see Leslie Nielsen! ;)

[@inyobill]

Before it was discovered that his true genius was as a comedic lead.

[@rodhanson7112]

I have this movie on DVD and after watching this i want to see it again

[@RowanPartridge]

I agree with the commentary and the viewers additional comments. I have to toss a brickbat at the plot. It seems like the C57D will return to Earth, the crew heroes and Commander Adams and Altaira will live happily ever after. However he may have to carefully word his post-mission report to leave out the fact that he destructed a technological treasure trove that may have advanced - or destroyed - humanity because a crazed and dying old man told him to. But the movie is my all time favorite and I may be just picky.

[@trukeesey8715]

I think that perhaps the duck-and-cover drills were a year or two after the movin picture in our school. But perhaps in some spots they o'erlapped?

[@guitarBG]

Amen brother!

[@r.kellycoker9387]

Alien ergonomics show up in the shape of the chairs in the lab. I think I'll watch the movie again for the thousanth? time.

[@Glicksman1]

Alright, if this isn't the greatest sci-fi film of its era, what, in your opinion, is better and why? I understand that there are many great sci-fi films of that era, Body Snatchers, War of the Worlds, The Day the Earth Stood Still, etc. However, IMO, the highly influential nature of Forbidden Planet, its superior score and production puts it at the top of the list. Both Star Trek and Star Wars are the direct progeny go FB. I give The Day TESS a very close second.

[@bennydemario4624]

......all time classic!

[@karenhall4645]

I love this movie. I was surprised when I saw Leslie Nielsen plays the captain, as I've only seen him do comedy. Who else thinks the music is creepy.

[@dannystaton5386]

This was awesome

[@michelleregis6181]

There are too many 50s sci fi films that hold a fascination for me, Forbidden planet, Day the earth stood still are the 2 that stand out the most, the story, artwork, special effects, the nusic can never be duplicated .The Film is almost sacred as was Day...... still, that was remade and it became a laughable sham, I enjoyed your video it was clear and consice thanx

[@mydogbrian4814]

> Yes it was. (a sham) - So was The Thing, King Kong & Three is a Crowd (sequel). & a doz. other remakes.

[@usapatriot444]

Well done!

[@nasalpolecat091]

The ID monster scared the crap out me.

[@spockboy]

2:14 Silly voice part ends. (otherwise an excellent video)

[@oobrocks]

another huge influence on this film was Sigmund Freud: the Id, ego & super ego

[@Sennmut]

Yup. Leave the Classics alone!

[@patrickferlet9086]

merci

[@dr.k.conorfoxx2122]

Great movie

[@mydogbrian4814]

- > The problem with pre *1958* scify films is that they were made before manned orbital spaceflight was considered possible. So the impact on wishful viewers was more pronounced. While most others viewed it as the realm of pink unicorns & nonsensical "mumbo jumbo" & techno babble. - Once pre & transitional manned spaceflight viewers are gone. Younger viewers will see it as just one of hundreds of scify films in the real age of spacetravel.

[@eddstarr2185]

If you mashup "Forbidden Planet - 1956" with "Swiss Family Robinson - 1960", you get Season One of, "Lost in Space - 1965".

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

Pretty much

[@bobashby3106]

Always wondered why the Anne Francis character -- remember, she's the only woman on the planet, accompanied only by dear old dad -- is costumed in a tight top and sexy short skirts. A bit creepy, maybe? Loved the movie, though.

[@AmatureAstronomer]

Good movie!

[@lv2465]

The definitive classic SciFi Masterpiece. Watch the film and notice how many modern SciFi films have ripped this one off.

[@monsterfan1096]

Wait the robot in the movies name is Robby did roblox piggy take inspiration because in roblox piggy there's a robot pig named Robby

[@CaminoAir]

The only negative is that the three principle crewmembers of the patrol ship are written stiffly. It limits what the actors can do with the parts. They're military personnel, but they're 1950's B-Movie types. Otherwise, it doesn't matter what time will do to this film, because its appeal is based on core storytelling techniques and it also benefits from nostalgia in terms of the artistry of the physical production.

[@jerryshunk7152]

Think how stiff Spock was in that pilot with Jeff Hunter. It takes time to develop characters !

[@hankreager244]

Not the best sci-fi movie of the era, but definitely a good one. By the way, in real life, I don't think they would select an alcoholic to be the cook aboard an intergalactic starship.

[@robertarodecker2558]

So what do you think is the best film of that era. I dont see anyfilm toping this one

[@markfetherman6593]

Still on my Top 5 All Time Greatest SF Films. Makes no sense to remake masterpieces. Still no remake of Gone With the Wind. Forbidden Planet is in the same category.

[@palmercolson7037]

A remake is unnecessary. I would ask the question: what in the story will you presenting that will be different and interesting in the remake? The remake Battlestar Galactica offers a good example of that. What would the remake of Forbidden Planet offer us in the new story?

[@Landrew0]

Great movie in its time, but I absolutely hate the way Warner Bros. inserted CGI elements without telling us or giving us a choice to see the original effects.

[@vincentpuccio3689]

They’ll just woke it up if they do a remake

[@andrewhaddock7996]

Dead right..this needs nothing,let it stand as it is.

[@michaeljohnson6605]

Unique🕶😀👍

[@michaeljohnson-li5nn]

I agree.

[@jeffdworkin915]

Late to the party - overall a nice review of a true classic, but how did you miss the well known fact that the plot comes from Shakespeare's "The Tempest" ?

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

Uh, I didn't. (?) It's in the video.

[@alanmacification]

@@TheUnapologeticGeek Actually , it is loosely based on a partially recover Homeric play about a Greek Hero named Bellerophon who tamed the Winged Horse Pegasus and killed the Chimera. He became famous and arrogant and felt he deserved to live with the gods, So he rode Pegasus to Mt. Olympus. This annoyed Zeus who sent a gadfly to sting Pegasus, thus throwing Bellerophon to his death. Dr. Morbious' ship was called The Bellerophon.

[@roberttbrockway]

Those aren't transporters.

[@EdMorbius46]

True. They are stasis fields to protect against huge delta-V (as an astronaut would say). This Island Earth, from rival studio Universal, copied the look in a sort-of stasis tube. That was another classic from the time, with rather more wooden characters but gorgeous FX.

[@PatrickJDoyle-bw3fu]

There were rumors that someone was tinkering with remaking "Casablanca", leave the classics alone

[@TheUnapologeticGeek]

That is such a terrible, terrible, terrible idea.

[@enscroggs]

If I had to choose a favorite sci-fi of all time (I generally despise ranked lists) "Forbidden Planet" would be it. However, I do have my minor gripes. Firstly, there's the Barrons' electronic score. Sound that is unequivocally music is generally heard only by the audience -- it doesn't exist in the characters' world -- and its function is dramatic -- it informs us about the emotional content of what we otherwise see and hear. Since at least the debut of "King Kong" music has become vital to film, and many great movies would be fatally compromised by its absence. An amusing experiment is to take an overly dramatic scene from a classic horror film -- one without a score as such, the 1931 "Frankenstein" for instance -- and overdub it with comedy chase music from a Martin & Lewis farce. Pretty damned bizarre effect guaranteed. The Barron tonalities are rather dry, and they seldom reinforce the emotionality of the scenes. Furthermore, there are a number of scenes in which the tonalities are bafflingly ambiguous -- is it music or sound effects? The best example is the approach and touchdown of the starcruiser C-57D. Is that electron sound produced by the ship? Could Morbius have heard it if he had the good manners to greet the cruiser as it landed? Or is it music? Dunno. Lastly, there's the SWITCH. The SWITCH has been a recurring feature of sci-fi/horror since "The Bride of Frankenstein". It's the mechanism in the mad scientist's mad laboratory with no other function than total explosive destruction of the lab, the castle, and much of the windswept pinnacle on which they stand. And concluding the movie without adequate explanations or a definitive fate of the Creature, thus allowing for a squeal if more profits can be made. The SWITCH equals THE END. In "The Bride" the switch is called the LEVER, and Pretorius warns Frankenstein that "it will blow us to atoms!" OK. So, why is it there? Why not uninstall it? (BTW. That scene is worth careful watching. There's evidence of studio intervention in anticipation of yet another sequel.) So why does the Krell lab have the SWITCH? Was that standard equipment? Krell Technician: "All finished, Professor Zorg. Sign here, please." Zorg: "Yes, it's a very usable laboratory, though I'd prefer a brighter shade of mauve... Hey, wait a minute. Where's the SWITCH? Every laboratory has to have a SWITCH. That's government policy!" Krell Technician: "It's right over there, sir, under the discombobulatoratron control panel." Zorg: "I see. Does it work? Have you tested it? Krell Technician: "It's against government policy to test the SWITCH." Zorg: "True..." Krell Technician: "Sign here, please." If the Krell didn't install the SWITCH, did Morbius wire it up? If so that implies he possesses a much deeper understanding of the Great Machine than he admits to, being a "low-grade moron" in comparison to the average Krell. It also implies a rather lax attitude to safety on the part of the Krell. On the other hand, they probably had few low-grade morons like Morbius to contend with.

[@EdMorbius46]

Valid comments. But I personally like this ambiguity of the 'electronic tonalities'. Also, as with good soundtrack music, I find they do tap into the viewer's emotions and so often add to the movie. Try to imagine watching it without those sounds. As one reviewer said, echoing The Tempest, 'the island is full of voices'.

[@Tedinator01]

Forbidden Planet, what is it? It’s a classic Sci-Fi movie from the 1950’s but that’s not important right now.

[@ShinobiShaman]

FB is like the Star Trek pilot, before the pilot, before the pilot. So, recently I watched your 2001 video which was interesting, & then I decided to see what other films you've reviewed. Sure enough, FB is 1 of them. As I said in the comment I made on the 2001 video, it's my second favorite sci-fi film after A New Hope. & I have to say, you paid it the respect it deserves. Now, I'm going to watch your Empire Strikes Back video, because I'm real curious to see why you dislike that film. 🤔