Historians Nige Burton and Jamie Jones pay the "ultimate tribute" to one of the 1950s' top, science-fiction endeavors: Jack Arnold/Joseph M. Newman's This Island Earth.
Contrary to what many presume, this 1955 Technicolor, Universal Pictures submission (based on the 1952 novel by Raymond F. Jones) was far from a blockbuster. It instead grew in popularity over time, in particular through frequent telecasts, much in the vein of Douglas Trumbull's Silent Running and Ridley Scott's Blade Runner.
Its setup is unique, thus distinguishing it from its respected competition: Earth scientists are recruited (one, in particular, proving himself by assembling a communicative device called an "interociter") to assist in a battle between planets; such culminates in a colorful, dystopic trip beyond the stars.
This Island Earth's production was vast and intricate, as Burton and Jones convey, for great time and effort went into Metaluna's landscape, its U.F.O.-inspired spaceship and creature construction. (The movie's Mutant stands as one of cinema's most recognizable specimens.)
Those who brought the production to vivid life are featured in a handy, supplemental breakdown and include (in addition to aforementioned producer Arnold and director Newman) Rex Reason, Faith Domergue, Jeff Morrow, Russell Johnson, Lance Fuller, Robert Nichols, Douglas Spencer, Richard Deacon, William Alland, Regis "Reggie" Parton, Milicent Patrick, Bud Westmore, Jack Kevan, Henry Mancini, Hans Salter, Herman Stein and more!
If you love This Island Earth, Classic Monsters of the Movies' deluxe tribute is one to possess, ruminate and treasure.
Order (while supplies last) at
https://www.classic-monsters.com/shop/product/this-island-earth-1955-ultimate-guide-magazine/
