This handsomely produced sci-fi is based on Shakespeare’s “The Tempest,” transformed into a classic of its kind due to groundbreaking Oscar-nominated special effects.
Space men travel to a planet ruled by expatriate Dr. Edward Morbius (Walter Pidgeon), who has built a kingdom with his daughter Alta (Anne Francis) and obedient robot Robby.
The good doctor is plagued by his mad quest for knowledge through his “brain booster” machine, and by Freudian “monsters from the id,” as his daughter discovers other men and learns to kiss.
Leslie Nielsen gives her a straight-laced performance as Commander John J. Adams.
Oscar Nominations: 1
Special Effects: A, Arnold Gillespie, Irving Rice, Wesley C. Miller
Oscar Context:
The winner was John Fulton for the special effects in “The Ten Commandments.”
Credits
MPAA: G.
Running time: 98 Minutes.
Directed by Fred M. Wilcox
Written by Cyril Hume
Released: March 15, 1956.
DVD: April 18, 2000
MGM Home Entertainment