Monday, October 9, 2023

Collectible Time: It Came from Outer Space (Universal Essentials Collection)

Jack Arnold's It Came from Outer Space is an incontestable classic. Based on a premise by the great Ray Bradbury (and scripted by Harry [Creature from the Black Lagoon] Essex), the movie was a 3D extravaganza when it was released in 1953, but through "flat," televised showings over the decades, it solidified its spot as a character-driven, fear-of-the-unknown masterpiece. 

The Universal Essentials Collection has just launched a Blu-Ray/HD box set of the classic, which has aficionados ecstatic. 

The package includes  

1) Blu-ray & HD transfers of the movie

2) An alternate, 3D print on Blu-ray

3) The theatrical trailer

4) Commentary by film historian, Tom Weaver

5) "The Universe According to Universal" documentary

6) A 34-page booklet, highlighting on-set photos, promotional imagery and artwork

7) A reversible sleeve with original poster artwork

8) 4 promotional, art cards 

9) A film-cell replica

10) A numbered certificate of authenticity 

It Came from Outer Space is not only revered for Arnold's taut direction and Bradbury/Essex's reflective concept, but it holds an impressive cast, which includes Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, Russell Johnson, Kathleen Hughes, Charles Drake, Joe Sawyer, Edgar Dearing and George Eldredge. Each gives a nuanced performance, which drives the fable's uncanny, desert-alien draw. 

The cyclopean design for the desperate, crash-landed creatures (at least the one that manifests) is unforgettable and even more so when viewed in 3D. Actually, the movie's entire, 3D approach is exceptional and is considered one of the best examples of the audience-grabbing gimmick.

It Came from Outer Space: The Essential Collection should be part of every film buff's library and can be ordered at Amazon and other fine, film-based vendors. Buy It today!

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