Film4 is treating viewers to a screening of the 2008 science fiction remake The Day the Earth Stood Still, starring Keanu Reeves, tonight at 6.55pm. While not a critical darling upon its release, this reinterpretation of a 1950s classic has found a loyal fanbase and its environmental themes feel strikingly relevant today.
A Stellar Cast for a Modern Parable
Directed by Scott Derrickson from a screenplay by David Scarpa, the film boasts an impressive ensemble. Keanu Reeves takes on the role of Klaatu, an alien emissary who arrives on Earth in human form. He is joined by an all-star cast including Jennifer Connelly, John Cleese, Jon Hamm, Kathy Bates, and a young Jaden Smith.
The plot kicks into gear when a mysterious object in space is predicted to cause an extinction-level event on Earth. As top US scientists scramble to form a survival strategy, the object is revealed to be a spaceship carrying Klaatu and a formidable robot.
From Nuclear Fear to Environmental Crisis
This 2008 version is a remake of the 1951 film of the same name. The original was a product of the Cold War, with its alien visitor coming to warn humanity about the perils of nuclear warfare. The remake cleverly updates the central threat, shifting the focus to ecocide—the mass destruction of our ecosystem.
In the film, Jennifer Connelly's character, astrobiologist Helen Benson, is tasked with studying Klaatu. He reveals his mission: to assess whether humanity, which he sees as destructive, deserves to be saved from the environmental catastrophe they have created. His perspective is shaped by observing human interactions, including Helen's strained relationship with her stepson, Jacob, played by Jaden Smith.
A Financial Success with a Lasting Legacy
Despite a lukewarm reception from professional critics, The Day the Earth Stood Still was a box office hit, grossing approximately £177 million globally. Its true success, however, may be its enduring appeal among audiences.
On platforms like Rotten Tomatoes, fans have praised the film as "great" and commend its prescient themes. One viewer wrote, "I think this sheds an important light on situations going on right now and how we really do need to focus more on helping the earth." Another fan highlighted the cast, saying, "Keanu, Jennifer and Jon... just watching them work - what's not to like?"
Some viewers were even baffled by the critical response, with one stating, "No idea why there's low ratings... all around great movie," while another conceded it was "better than the dork critics gave it credit for."
For those looking for a thought-provoking sci-fi night, The Day the Earth Stood Still airs on Film4 tonight, Friday 14 November, at 6.55pm.
