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[…] Firstshowing.net have got a confirmed report from 20th Century Fox that a remake of the science fiction classic The Day The Earth Stood Still is in the works for a release sometime next year. […]

Obsessed With Film » Blog Archive » The Day The Earth Stood Still remake in the works on Feb 22, 2007

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[…] Is the world ready for a remake of The Day the Earth Stood Still? Well they better get ready. Box Office Mojo is reporting that the film will hit theaters on May 9th 2008. Our friends at FirstShowing.net have confirmed the date with Fox, so it is happening. […]

Fox announces The Day the Earth Stood Still Remake for Summer 2008 | /Film on Feb 22, 2007

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[…] The Day the Earth Stood Still Being Remade! Fox confirmed with us that this is true and the date is correct, meaning a The Day the Earth Stood Still remake is definitely underway for summer 2008! […]

Klaatu barada nikto - Oh no, not again! at Wild Tangents on Feb 22, 2007

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[…] Mientras sigo reconstruyendo la web, ya tenemos de nuevo disponible la Quiniela de los Oscar 2007 o redireccionados los archivos mensuales y por categoría, veo con perplejidad en First Showing […]

Uruloki » Un remake de Ultimátum a la Tierra, Grindhouse decorativo y otras noticias salvajes… on Feb 22, 2007

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Dear God, NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!

dave on Feb 22, 2007

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War of the Worlds sucked balls. What version did you see Alex Billington?

craig hornby on Feb 22, 2007

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The one a few years ago Craig, with Tom Cruise - I loved it! I think everyone always says it's crap because the ending was "so bad" but if you look at it with everything up to the ending (all the way through the farm), it was amazing. Very visualized, stylized, great acting (Cruise rocks) and everything. I don't know how people keep saying it was so bad. Sure there is personal opinion, but if that's purely because of the "bad ending" than that's not justified… What else made it so bad in your mind?

Alex Billington on Feb 22, 2007

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NOOOOOOOOO Leave it alone!

novabeatnik on Feb 22, 2007

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That's complete bullshit, there is no way they (Hollywood) can even touch this movie….Tom Cruise as Klaatu???? My ass!

joe on Feb 22, 2007

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Don't shoot the messenger!

Alex Billington on Feb 22, 2007

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Alex, are you seriously telling us that you found the idea of a species that plans its meals millions of years in advance more convincing than the original's asteroid landings? The ending was quite possibly the best part of the movie.

Michael on Feb 22, 2007

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The fact that it's scheduled for a summer release doesn't bode well. Think dumbed down with lots of splosions.

Gus on Feb 22, 2007

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You just know they will try to put some "big star" in the lead role.
Who could they get as Klaatu, hmm, let's see, how about John Travolta? And as Helen Benson? How about Gwyneth Paltrow? Think how a "star" ala Tom Cruise helped ruin War of the Worlds. What an medoicre movie that was especially with Cruise in it as his typically repressed, one-dimensional self. Don't know what Spielberg was thinking.

MichaelM on Feb 22, 2007

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Who could possibly play Michael Rennie' part, and what would Gort look like?

Well for all the comments regarding the War of the Worlds, the biggest spoiler was Dakota Fanning and the over the top screaming. Your normal kid would have just gone into shell shock.

Bob Knight on Feb 23, 2007

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[…] On May 9, 2008, Earth will stand still once again. Fox has confirmed that they’re remaking The Day the Earth Stood Still to fill out their gigantic 2008 slate. When will the madness end! If it’s not broke, don’t fix it. Out of all the classic sci-fi films 50s and 60s, The Day the Earth Stood Still holds up over time. The rampant fear that grips a nation when faced with the unknown is certainly a theme that we can relate to in these days of fear and terror. In fact, I think it’s actually pretty scary how relevant this movie could be today. […]

Angry Zen Master » Blog Archive » Klaatu Barada Nikto on Feb 23, 2007

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I think that MichaelM really summed up what I thought of War of the Worlds. It was a mediocre film at best. The problem is that Hollywood is hellbent on remaking films that are loved. This really is a no-win scenario.

Were they to take films that had decent concepts but crappy execution and actually improve on them, I think it would actually generate some good will amongst filmgoers.

FS Dave on Feb 23, 2007

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[…] [source:firstshowing.net] […]

The Day the Earth Stood Still Remake Coming Soon « Students of the Strange on Feb 23, 2007

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[…] Fox is remaking the 1951 classic sci-fi movie for a summer 2008 release. […]

sirkel » Blog Archive » The Day the Earth Stood Still remake confirmed for 2008! on Feb 23, 2007

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[…] http://www.firstshowing.net/2007/02/21/the-day-the-earth-stood-still-being-remade-for-2008/ […]

Marcianitos Verdes » El día que paralizaron la Tierra 2008 on Feb 24, 2007

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[…] The Day the Earth Stood Still remake confirmed for 2008! Fox is remaking the 1951 classic sci-fi movie for a summer 2008 release. […]

The Day the Earth Stood Still remake confirmed for 2008! « News Coctail on Mar 1, 2007

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Why should the alien, in the remake of "The Day the Earth stood still" be a male?
Sanaa Lathan (AVP) can do the character justice. Also why should it be a "remake"? why not continue the story line? Bring it up to date since the earth is more messed up now than in 1951!!!
Boy do we need some kind of a savior today!!!

BVELAZQUEZ on Mar 2, 2007

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I say leave it alone. The original is good enough, and the music soundtrack fits the mood of the film.

SciFiSenior on Mar 2, 2007

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If they are going to do it I hope Fox will consider revising the storyline to align with Harry Bates original short story, "Farewell to the Master", which was the inspiration for the original movie. There were concepts he introduced in "Farewell to the Master" that were omitted out of the movie script (like cloning, space-time travel, and artificial intelligence) because it was felt that they wouldn't be well received by audiences of that time period. I think the time has come to redo it the way it was originally written.

RHARRIS on Mar 12, 2007

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The film was a classic in its own right and sooooooooooo far ahead of its time. If they can create the same "ahead of its time" feeling and clever use of the special effects available, then they are on to a winner. Cant wait…………

Barbados Rum on Mar 14, 2007

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Being a baby-boomer and having grown-up with the classic sci/fi horror genre, I feel the same way; if it 'ain't broke,don't fix it'; The original DTESS, is a wonderful classic with great classic actors, it has a 'charm' like most of the 50's horror/sci-fi, that can never be duplicated, yes, I am very biased about these films, because it i mostly about fantatstic special effects and lots of action and blood today,granted they are fabulously produced, but I will take these 'black/white' films any day. I recently viewed 'Monster on the Campus w/Arthur Franz and Whit Bissell on the new DirectTV Channel TV "Chiller" station, and it was just as enjoyable to me now as it was back in '58, relying more on 'atmosphere and imagination' then f/x. regards

Jay Maggio on Mar 19, 2007

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Instead of coming 4 million miles to reach earth how about 4 million light years.Intstead of the doctors smoking cigarettes maybe they can smoke a joint.

Bob on Apr 8, 2007

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[…] Fox is remaking the 1951 classic sci-fi movie for a summer 2008 release.read more | digg story […]

Movies » The Day the Earth Stood Still remake confirmed for 2008! on Apr 13, 2007

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As a baby-boomer, this flick is one of my all time favorite sci-fi films! I'm constantly talking about this movie and was wondering when they'd ever do a re-make of it. Imagine the special F/X on this one! Jeeezz!! We've already got problems with surmounting global warming as it is! You wanna know what would make this re-make flick truly off-the-hook? Live the film title…literally! It's called "The Day The Earth Stood Still"… so, just imagine the chaos of our world as we realise our planets' rotation around the sun is actually slowing down to a halt. Oh, I'd think we'd all start listening-up real good when that humanoid and his giant alien robot companion start laying down the terms.

Keith Welch on Apr 25, 2007

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Please Hollywood, do this right! I was obviously not alone in crushing disappointment withWOTW. Gushing sentimentaliy aside, the impact was totally lost in our modern world. The victorian era was a perfect setting for the insideous invaders from Mars with their unheard of technology( Wells! what a visionary… I think he did have a time machine!). I concur with BVELAZQUEZ that the modern setting would work well- given that it's even more screwed than '51. I remember watching the original as a chld in the sixties and this laid the foundation for a lifetime love of science fiction. If they ruin this one… they'll have me to deal with

Klatu Barada Nictu on Apr 28, 2007

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Certainly the original movie is a product of its times. I read Harry Bates short story, "Farewell to the Master", and I'd have to say the movie's screenplay is to say the least loosely based upon his short story.

The message of the movie can be interpreted in many ways depending on what we want to read in it.

The mysteries of, "2001: A Space Odyssey", about an advanced mysterious force in the universe that transcends time and space verses Klatu's, "We of the other planets". The 1950's version that promotes worlds not unlike our own, seems naively understandable by comparison with the mysteries of the universe as depicted in 2001.

Since the fall of the Soviet empire and the declining threat of the Nuclear missile, the new lower tech terror weapons of the car bomb, the passenger Jet missile, the machete, issues of global warming and environmental degradation and destruction. We need Klatu to come back and guide us to a more altruistic outlook, rather than the self absorbed materialism what our church and politician leaders seem incapable to address.

Did the making of our machines grind to a halt change our attitude, we saw Klatu as a threat.
Klatu came across in the original movie and a friendly, naive neighbor from out of town willing to help others. A descent person trying to understand unreasonable childish attitudes. He left us more confused with no solutions. We knew after seeing the movie that we were doomed.

Yeah I think we need Klatu to come back and present us with a viable alternative and more importantly a solution. Do we need the Earth to stand still, I think we need our attitudes to move forward.

Jon Hornstein on Jun 10, 2007

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I am a big fan of TDTESS, and it has been in my top 10 favorite movies since I saw it on TV as a kid. I am the product of the 70's and have seen sci-fi grow to a higher popularity than ever before. I grew up with StarTrek and then it's subsequent reiterations(not all of them worth the time to watch). I'm not sure weather to welcome some new version of a well done story or be fearful that it will be mutated into the craptastical remakes that have been rehashed in recent years.

Besides hasn't the story already been redone recently - The Abyss

Shock System on Jun 11, 2007

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Bye Bye Klatu…

Johnathan Baxter on Jun 15, 2007

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Are we sure that this isn't 01-08-08…. or CLOVERFIELD??

MadDog on Jul 16, 2007

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The only actor who could play Klaatu properly is Christian Bale. This is my all time favorite movie due to the theme. If they are going to do a remake, hopefully it will be first class.

Alexandria on Jul 17, 2007

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Back to WOTW:

After seeing the '05 version (and having seen the George Pal version decades ago), I went back and read H.G. Wells' original.

The '05 version followed the original story amazingly closely–much moreso than the previous movie.

Rob on Jul 20, 2007

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I've been afraid someone would remake this movie for a long time. Please, Hollywood, take a hint from the HULK bomb and all the other remakes and leave the story alone and just update it to today's society. You can never touch the coolness of the ship or the robot Gort with computer graphics and Star Trek or Star Wars ship designs….few actors could pull Klaatu off - Gene Hackman is one and of the right demeanor and age - don't put some young Hollywood hunk in that role - remember this is an advanced race who has lived a long time, not a planet of punk rockers.

And as a side note, if you think a remake of this movie is a touchy subject, there is a script available for a remake of "Forbidden Planet" in which a group of men AND WOMEN astronauts
"beam" to a planet inhabited by a scientist and his daughter….a travesty!

OKSteve on Aug 10, 2007

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THE ORIGINAL MOVIE IS SUCH A WATCHABLE OLDIE. I SAW IT WHEN I WAS VERY YOUNG. I ALSO LOVED THE ORIGINAL "WAR OF THE WORLDS" AND WAS VERY DISAPPOINTED IN THE REMAKE. I WILL WATCH THE REMAKE OF "THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL" AND HOPE THAT IT DOES NOT STRAY TOO FAR FROM THE ORIGINAL. NOTHING CAN TAKE THE PLACE OF THE ORIGINAL OLD SCI-FI FLICKS. "WAR OF THE WORLDS" PROVED THAT…..

Mickie Perell on Aug 14, 2007

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OH NO!!! I've been fearing this for years, and now the tossers in Hollyweird are gonna do it! I just watched the film again 2 weeks ago, must be the twentieth time I've seen it….IT CANNOT BE IMPROVED UPON! And NO it's not because of it being a 'generation' thing that I say these words. I saw TDTESS when I was maybe 10 years old when the film was nearly 25 years old!!!!! I was struck with awe (one of the few occasions when the word 'awesome' can be used legitimately). It still fills me with fear and excitement at the same time..a masterpiece…JUST LAY OFF HOLLYWEIRD…ah, I'm wasting my breath. Already I can see the hype, the plastic Hollyweird 'stars' lining up to say this their 'Favourite film, and an honour to be part of the reworking and to bring it up to date" load of 'paycheck' bullshit!!
DUH!
IT AIN'T BROKEN, SO DON'T BLOODY FIX IT!

(If I hear Tom Cruise is involved, I might have to hire a Hit Man!)

Mark Morgan on Aug 15, 2007

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Looking for a science fiction short story published circa 1950's titled "I am the Master." Don't know the author, but it is about a spaceship landing in the USA, an alien disembarks from the ship with a gigantic robot, and the alien is shot. The robot freezes in one position(sound familiar?). Later, it turns out the robot, named I think Knute, is trying to restore life to the alien. He succeeds temporarily, and at the end of the story is leaving with the alien in the spaceship. The human protagonists talk with him briefly and ask him about his master, the alien he has saved temporarily. The last line in the story reveals the true nature of the relationship between the two, when he replies to a question put to him about his "master." His reply is; "You're both wrong. I am the master."

If anyone knows of the story &/or author, please respond.

scifi researcher on Aug 16, 2007

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Hello, When I was a very your boy (I'M now 60), my dad took me to a movie that had a sceen in it taking place on another planit where an invisible creature terrorized a work crew and they put up an electric field around their ship and when the creature came in contact with it you could see it. I can only remember that the crew referred to it as "The IT Monster". Anyone out there ever heard of this film?
David Vanbox@yahoo.com

David Robinson on Aug 20, 2007

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FORBIDDEN PLANET!!
Only one of the greatest Sci-Fi films ever made (apart from The Day The Earth Stood Still).
I thought everybody on this this little planet knew about that film!
MONSTERS FROM THE ID!

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0049223/

Mark...again. on Aug 21, 2007

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Number 39 "scifi researcher" check out the story is online at:

http://thenostalgialeague.com/olmag/bates.html

Jon Hornstein on Aug 21, 2007

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To Jon Hornstein. Got it. That is the story, and it is a great website. Many thanks.

sci fi researcher on Aug 21, 2007

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I don't want Tom Cruise to portray Klaatu. It will spoil Klaatu's reputation. Now I can see Christian Bale playing him, or George Clooney if he stayed Serious. Klaatu is handsome, but an older man. If the producers prefer to stick with the original story from the book, I don't think we will enjoy it half as much as the "fake" "The Day the Earth Stood Still". I read the original version and it came up way short of expectations, to me. I don't think Jakie Gillenhal should play him either, not after that gay movie, because it leaves bad images in my mind.

R.S. Habeeb on Aug 26, 2007

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There is nothing better than scifi! Just have a well known superb director doing the movie please! I wish Spielberg was doing it.

R.S. Habeeb on Aug 28, 2007

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This marvelous film was the wonder it was due to the fact, it had an interesting plot, the right actors and an altruistic message that carried beautifully in those times. The special effects were the best available and used very well. The choice of Michael Rennie was a heaven sent gift in this role where diction, delivery, elocution were what made his part stand out so well, ie, the explanation to to the boy on how the ship was powered while standing in the crowd. It is very hard to find the perfect actor to play a role. Of course, Patricia Neal did an excellent job of mirroring his energy. She gave no cheapness anywhatsoever to the importance of what Klaatu was doing.
It will require the perfect actor to deliver this role. Keanu Reeves is a great lead actor but this part must be handed to the one person custom made for this part; Crispin Glover. When an Elvis Pressley biography was made with Curt Russell cast in the lead role people in Hollywood scoffed an guffawed at the idea that this former Disney contract player could portray the king. But, he made a lot of girls wince, scream and jump when they saw him on the screen. Crispin Glover, with proper direction, could burn out the THX digital sound system. No other actor will come close to what he could do. He will bring Gort to life, and a new more modern theme/ threat to our planet made real. Once again, the times, situations and direction people and our society is moving towards sets the stage for a film that could change history. I believe there is a very interested audience for just such a feature film as this right now. Here's to a bright Futur, Tony Powrhouse

Tony Powrhouse on Aug 30, 2007

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There ought to be a law about remakes of classics - they should only be done if they honor the original points that made the movie a classic and improve on the relevance to the current audiences.

There is an obligation here not only to millions of scifi fans but to the world that dearly needed to heed the lessons of DTESS in 1951 and unite as a single world of beings to solve our little planet's problems together. In this regard, the original movie was a failure; the remake gives the story another chance to have a positive effect - don't mess it up!

Frank Erickson, M.D. on Aug 31, 2007

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Keanu Reeves is a terrific actor but he is terribly miscast as Klaatu. The perfect and I mean absolute perfect choice would have been Raph Fiennes. He has that classic urbane style and manner that most closely resembles Michael Rennie. I have been waiting years for a remake of this movie. Let's hope the script is good and the supporting cast is up to par. I wonder who will play the Frances "Aunt Bea" Bavier role. Will Mr. Carpenter stay at a boarding house? Are there any left in DC?

Stephen Dicht on Aug 31, 2007

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I agree that the classics should be remade, brought up to date with the technology we have now. But I like the classics to remain in the original "time period", and not brought into this millenia. I believe that modern people should see the older time periods to some of the classics, but for The Day The EARth stood Still, I feel the people of today need to be taught a lesson, a lot harder than stopping electricity. I don' t even think that Gort should spare Earthlings. Just my feelings, ’cause we have failed in our calling.

Krispin Glover. I can't bring my ears to hear how he sounds, but I do like him as an actor. Michael Rennie, and Claude Raines (The Invisible Man, The Wolfman) had very elegant, sexy voices. Women loved them for their speaking prowess.

OH. Aunt Bea could be played by Queen Latifah, or The Guy Who plays in the, "Mama's House" movies. The little boy could played by a girl this time. How about the little girl from "The Lions, Witches Wardrobe" or whatever that title is.

R.S. Habeeb on Aug 31, 2007

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I am a big fan of sci-fi, especially of the classics. If it is carefully written, produced & directed "The Day The Earth Stood Still" could be a blockbuster.

here are the main points:

1. use the original music score
2. use unknown actors/actresses
3. use minimal special effects but make sure the effects used are fantastic
4. polish the script & story board to perfection(will be difficult in todays world)
5. NO "morphing" of Klaatu!!

nobody can replace Micheal Rennie, his speach pattern was unique. Instead of trying to imitate Klaatu's speach pattern, develop something totally different that comes out very compelling.

"The Thing" was so so and "War of the Worlds" was ok, I hope this one is a winner!!!!!!

R. Raines on Sep 6, 2007

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for a real treat the music of "The day the earth stood still" has been re-mastered(re-recorded) with period instruments.

it is on the "Varese Sarabande" label. produced by: Robert Townson. I purchased my copy thru CD Universe online.

it sounds exactly like the original but it is very "crisp".

try it.


Ron

R. Raines on Sep 6, 2007

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Steven Spielberg should be given the Directors role and he should make this movie greater than his "Encounter of the Third Kind" movie. Ala Special Effect/CGI. Make it so.

Kim on Sep 11, 2007

53

This timing is more relevent that you know. Reference http://www.disclosureproject.org/.

Citizen on Sep 11, 2007

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I would have liked Spielberg doing it, only he tends to be a bit childish and corny, in some of the things he does in his films. Close Encounters was ok, but it was corny in a lot of spots. I would make "The Day the Earth Stood Still" a very serious movie. Yes, keep true to the original soundtrack and even make it better–I still hope the Robot does a lot more damage this time. If coming to Earth is going to be their *Klaatu's and Gort's* 2nd time, then I think it will be curtains for a lot of humanity.

R.S. Habeeb on Sep 11, 2007

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Oh great, another dumb Hollywood movie designed to make the ignorant masses fearful of extraterrestrials.

Governments across the world will cheer the day we are contacted by aliens, even if they are peaceful beings some governments will jump at the chance of boosting their own power in light of an imaginary threat.

Not surprised on Sep 16, 2007

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I just saw this classic movie yesterday, thanks to my new verizon Fios TV. It was my first time and I was glued to my chair and will not answer my telephone. I really enjoyed it and like many others have said the ending was very terrible so I hope the remake will make it up. I will love to see what became of the boyfriend who wanted to sell the diamond and also if our leaders complied to Klaato's demands, if they did how was the message sent to the alliens. I would also like see if the gov't charged the lady with conspiracy, after all that is what they always do. When they are not able to solve their mess key players become conspiritors.

Kwame Peter, MD on Sep 17, 2007

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Do you think they will add humor to this version? I mean there is that part where Klaatu gives Bobby the diamonds. I don't think the message of the old film is to make humans fearful of aliens. It is the humans that should fear humans and we do already. The trick to TDTESS is for humans to think of a working way to get control of our irrational selves. We either take control with robots, stem cell research, dna alterations, and chromosome alterations, or do it with robots. I'd rather have my own personal Robot, like all humans should have. This movie can go so deep down into what humans really need. Because I think overall, we are hopeless lunatics.

R.S. Habeeb on Sep 17, 2007

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You hit the nail on the head there, R.S.
I realised a long time ago that we need to genetically alter ourselves as a species for us to go forward.
If we could make ourselves less obsessed as a species with religion, breeding and destroying, we could go a long way!

Mark on Sep 18, 2007

59

[…] For those who haven’t seen the 1951 black and white sci-fi flick, it’s about an alien named Klaatu that comes down to deliver an important message to earth about the importance of maintaining peace on Earth. As with many alien encounters with earth in movies, Klaatu is met with suspicion and is shot by a scared soldier. A robot with amazing, unworldly powers called Gort appears to protect Klaatu. I won’t spoil the ending, but the movie is so good that it’s being remade for release in Summer 2008. […]

The Day Microsoft Office Stood Still, Google Docs trifecta complete » Make You Go Hmm on Sep 18, 2007

60

The day the earth stood still, Best science fiction film ever made, Can never be beaten, Even today.

Peter, London, England on Sep 22, 2007

61

The whole point is…IT'S SO GOOD IT DOESN'T NEED REMAKING!
Duh! Honestly. Might as well bang my bloody head against a wall!

Mark on Sep 23, 2007

62

Songs get remade. Stories get remade. Washers and Dryers, and other things get remade. Even people. As it now stands, there aren't alot of new people even knowing who Klaatu is, and why he came to Earth. They need to know, and they aren't going to pay attention to an old black and white film that some of us were fond of. I am glad it is going to be redone. I am hoping it is going to be very good. If not then, I will beat my bloody head on the wall too.

R.S. Habeeb on Sep 23, 2007

63

R.S. I saw that film when I was 10, it was an old Black and White movie even in those days. It left a bigger impression on me than even Star Wars did just a couple of years later. Hype is an awful thing, as an adult I've never been party to the 'latest thing' hype mentality. Some of us just see it as it is, when it's happening and we don't need to be part of the crowd who only join in with the inevitable condemnation when enough other sheep have followed. Bad fashion is bad fashion, bad TV is bad TV, bad music is bad music. Classics are classics in all genre.
If it was a crap film, then yes try to make it better, but it wasn't bad or even mediocre.
If we have to make it different so 'modern' kids can 'get it'…then we have truly messed up…big time!
I just fear that the greatest thing about the film - the message - may be lost in Hollyweird CGI and jumped up over rated 'actors'. A 'virtual' movie for a 'virtual' audience.
Sad indeed.

I would be happier than anyone if Hollyweird could break the mould and do it justice.


We'll wait and see shall we?
Fingers, toes, arms and legs crossed.

Mark on Sep 24, 2007

64

It is bad fashion to be human but that isn't our fault. Over reacting is one of the poorer attributes we have. And we tend to over react over small things like children do. I don't really care anymore, how they do the movie. I have the black and white version and that makes me happy. If the remake sucks, I am certainly not going to have a "spleen fit over it", that would mean I learned nothing from the black and white version. Mark, Klaatu never got bent out of shape…but Gort did. Gort was the destructive side of Klaatu. I would rather have my emotions in check like Klaatu. And like you said, if they remake classics and you don't agree with them remaking classics, then you can sit at home and not be party to it. I don't like the fact that Keanu Reeves is playing Klaatu, but it is not important enough to me, to get me boiled over.

R.S. Habeeb on Sep 25, 2007

65

I've always been the little boy in the timeless story "The King's (or Emperor's) New Clothes".

Nuff said.

Bye for now!

Mark on Sep 26, 2007

66

I'm sorry, but I have to do this. TDTESS is my favorite movie- period. And for the record, I'm not a one-trick pony, all sci-fi, all the time. But this film is being made for the money, not the message- and that's wrong. IMHO, Keanu Reeves not only is completely wrong for Klaatu, he pretty much can't act his way out of a sandwich bag. Just watch "The Devil's Advocate" some time- he gets blown off the screen every scene he has with Pacino. You need depth to portray someone who has just travelled millions of miles to give you a message, then turn around and be awe-struck and reverent over the words of Abe Lincoln and the sight of Arlington Cemetary. You want me to believe remakes are inevitable? I'll buy that if you can assure me the remake will have something better to offer. Think anyone's ever going to remake 2001? A Clockwork Orange? To Kill a Mockingbird? Although not a remake, I feel the same way over this as I did in anticipation of "I, Robot". THIS is how Hollywood does things. But, alas, it will be made and likely it will make a few million for the studio… then be forgotten. And we can wait for the new and improved "Forbidden Planet" starring Brad Pitt as Cmdr Adams and Jack Nicholson as Morbius.

The Doctor on Sep 27, 2007

67

My aunt took me to see Forbidden Planet when it first came out. I was very little then. Forbidden Planet is the least of my favorite '50's movies and I have seen a very good many of them. I loved "I Robot" with Will Smith and I look forward to "I am Legend" with him in it. I loved Vincent Price when he was in, "The Last Man On Earth" too. One movie that I saw in the fifties that was very good was, "The Incredible Shrinking Man". I consider this film to be very depressing though. Another mood dropper is, "The Wicker Man" with Christopher Lee. They remade it and I didn't bother going to see it. "The Invasion of the Body Snatchers" classic '50's version was superb, and so was the remake in the 1970's. I liked Darryl Hannah in the remake, "Attack of the Fifty Foot Woman". Movies I would like to see done over and continued, "The Thing From Another World" John Carpenter's Version. I simply loved it!! And loved the remake of, "The Blob". One more to be remade in my book, is "The Creeping Unknown"aka "Quatermass Experiment".

2007 ME is a time when people are losing their conscience-ness, and they are losing their ability to feel, so movie producers are not worried too much about "messages" anymore. Just making money like you say. People in these days could care less about a story with Jesus coming to Earth, let alone a "Mr Carpenter". I am going to see TDTESS because I am a child of the '50's. That was a very magic time for me, and others of same ilk. I don't care too much about the people of Earth in these days and times. They've come up short, and I don't think are worthy of continuing to rule Earth. Who knows. We may have already been "invaded" by aliens long time ago–and Gort and Klaatu may have found a more gentler way to get rid of us…by having us get rid of ourselves.

R.S. Habeeb on Sep 27, 2007

68

"I don't care too much about the people of Earth in these days and times. They've come up short, and I don't think are worthy of continuing to rule Earth."

AGREED! I wish Klaatu would come here for real and knock a few stupid heads together!

Mark on Sep 28, 2007

69

Perhaps I shouldn't be so cynical, and I will go see the remake of The Day The Earth Stood Still, but I'm not expecting very much now that I know Keanu Reeves will be Klaatu and since I've read a synopsis of the new film in which "Klaatu arrives on earth with his HEAVILY ARMED robot, Gort.

Sounds like Gort, instead of having a very cool disintegrating ray and an insdestructible body, will be more along the lines of a Robo Cop droid with machine guns…

I think I mentioned this before but the script for a remake of Forbidden Planet lies waiting for an offer for a studio. In it, "a crew of earth men and women BEAM DOWN to a planet where a scientist and his daughter have been living alone since their spaceship crashed"….don't look for any cool saucer landings in this update.

Steve on Sep 29, 2007

70

I'm confident that this movie is gonna be great.tomy viewpoint (contrary to Steve) the presence of Keanu Reeves in the cast is a real reason to be optimist!

The Day The Earth Stood Still on Oct 22, 2007

71

So wrong! It should be a mature well spoken English actor..that's what made Klaatu so great..for crying out loud!! Why does everybody have to be American, unless they are a bad guy?
Pathetic.

mark on Oct 22, 2007

72

I think they should have used a being from another planet. Afterall Earth isn't the only habitable one. How about an actor to play Klaatu from his planet? :-p

R.S. Habeeb on Oct 25, 2007

73

The Day the Earth Stood Still will remain an excellent film even after the remake. Reeves will do a good job with the charachter as he is somwhat drab in his delivery. They will miss an excellent oppertunity by not casting Stephen Hawking as the professor to give it some current credibility. There is an unfortunate cycle now of remaking older Science Fiction movies instead of tapping into the multitude of great books that can now, with the capabilities of CGI to create images that would have been impossible 10 years ago. Some that come to mind immediately are "Rendesvous With Rama"," Ringworld" or if someone is really ambituous any of the Larry Niven "Known Space" stories. Lots of new stuff to be done before redoing the oldies.

S.Ray on Oct 28, 2007

74

[…] read more | digg story […]

I Like The Movies » Blog Archive » The Day the Earth Stood Still remake confirmed for 2008! on Oct 30, 2007

75

Who the hell would ever say that War of the Worlds was good. That movie sucked harder and more than a 2 dollar day hooker.

Johnathan on Nov 1, 2007

76

KLAATU is one of my favorite bands from the 70s…..any movie remake should use the music from this band.

My biggest fear is not seeing aliens invade Earth….it is todays punk generation messing up one of the greatest movies of all time!

Calling occupants….of interplanetary crafts……………..

Jimmy on Nov 1, 2007

77

I just read seventy six comments about the movie and no one has mentioned a very special instrument used in the musical score. One attribute about this movie was the musical score and especially the eerie THEREMIN that was used in so many of the scenes. An LA podiatrist by day and thereminist for many of the films in the 50's was Samuel Hoffman who gave this picture it's novelty and scary effects. I certainly hope that instrument will resurface in the remake played by a reputable thereminist.

Purple Haze on Nov 8, 2007

78

go to cduniverse.com.

search for: the day the earth stood still in the cd section under the category: soundtracks.


there is a cd that has the music re-done with PERIOD instruments, including the Theramin!!!

it is great, it sounds exactly like the original except it is really hi-fi.

Ron Raines on Nov 8, 2007

79

I am interested in buying the CD you mention but I don't know which one to get. Why didn't you give us the version you have, who it is by etc?

Leonid/Leon Theramin created the Theramin. He was from the soviet union and when he traveled to America with the Theramin showing it off he was under house arrest when he returned to Russia. He was a reknown scientist. The Theramin is using sinewave language, and some type of oscillation. I used to hear this oscillation when my Aunt was building her own Oscillascope, back in the 1950's.

Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys used the Theramin in the song, "Good Vibrations", and there was a famous woman who used the Theramin in classical music. More '50's movies used it and the Theramin was used in Tim Burton's, "Mars Attacks!". I love its sound.

R.S. Habeeb on Nov 8, 2007

80

P.S.


Celia Sheen Plays the Theremin.

Ron Raines on Nov 9, 2007

81

Purple Haze,
perhaps my last post (#76) was not specific enough…..I loved the music in the Original movie , and was meaning to point out that , the 70s rock band "KLAATU" ,and it's fans are very familiar with Samuel Hoffman and the Theremin.
My point intended was that…the NEW movie should include a music score done by KLAATU.
Sci-fi fans can hear KLAATU @ KLAATU.ORG

Jimmy

Jimmy Askins on Nov 9, 2007

82

I have always thought if a remake was ever done Klaatu should be played by a lesser known actor as in the original. My choice would have been Steve Burton. (Jason on General Hospital.) He has the piercing eyes of Michael Rennie and the body to carry the role. A known actor such as Keanu Reeves cannot be separated form Speed or Matrix. I don't think his presence is strong enough for the role. Even if the plot is brought up to date you still need a strong lead actor that commands attention and is authoritive enough to carry that role. This is way beyond Keanu Reeves ability. 20th Fox should save their money!

James on Nov 14, 2007

83

The original TDTESS movie is one of a handful of sci-fi movies that changed not only movies themselves but makes you believe that great movies are possible. Metropolis and Blade Runner come to mind personally. You have to consider that those of us who were kids when Star Wars came out were never exposed to any of the older sci-fi's. Thankfully I had parents who exposed us kids to a variety of films all the way back to the silents. I was both sad and excited when I heard this movie is being remade. The original is close to perfect and I can't see them improving on the formula. Hollywood will probably do the standard extreme makeover, ie., special effects, load noises and split the screenplay up between 3 to 6 screenwriters who have no business tackling a story like this. I have always wondered why they do it this way but its simply money. The War Of The Worlds remake would have been exceptional except for Tom Cruise, the screaming (constantly) daughter, the unlikeable son who just " had to see it for himself" and the goofy ending. The machines were incredible, the effects were great, but the story kind of got glossed over in favor of looking at Tom and the special effects. I am not getting my hopes up on this one. If they let a director, say Ridley Scott, Alfonso Cuarón or someone who knows how to pack the visual punch AND give you characters you care about (Joss Whedon?), then it might live up to the hype. Then again, the movie just may be one of those flukes that people identify with. Just my two cents.

Jason on Nov 14, 2007

84

The original TDTESS movie is one of a handful of sci-fi movies that changed not only movies themselves but makes you believe that great movies are possible. Metropolis and Blade Runner come to mind personally. You have to consider that those of us who were kids when Star Wars came out were never exposed to any of the older sci-fi's. Thankfully I had parents who exposed us kids to a variety of films all the way back to the silents. I was both sad and excited when I heard this movie is being remade. The original is close to perfect and I can't see them improving on the formula. Hollywood will probably do the standard extreme makeover, ie., special effects, load noises and split the screenplay up between 3 to 6 screenwriters who have no business tackling a story like this. I have always wondered why they do it this way but its simply money. The War Of The Worlds remake would have been exceptional except for Tom Cruise, the screaming (constantly) daughter, the unlikeable son who just " had to see it for himself" and the goofy ending. The machines were incredible, the effects were great, but the story kind of got glossed over in favor of looking at Tom and the special effects. I am not getting my hopes up on this one. If they let a director, say Ridley Scott, Alfonso Cuarón or someone who knows how to pack the visual punch AND give you characters you care about (Joss Whedon?), then it might live up to the hype. The movie just may be one of those flukes that people identify with. Just my two cents.

Jason on Nov 14, 2007

85

Oh Jason!
If only the mindless masses were as caring about these things!!!
I need a frontal lobotomy, I want to be a sheep too!

TDTESS is a close second behind The life of Brian for me in the all time greatest movies category!
I'm just so sad that the wonderful concept and message of the great movie will be trashed by the "Money for Money's Sake" ideology.
There's nothing the little boy can do about the Emperor's New Clothes!

Mark on Nov 14, 2007

86

Well it is obvious that the remake has been made….or is in it's final moments.
I agree….that KLAATU should be played by someone who is unknown.
And…I agree…that THIS MOVIE can not be redone…..but,,,it is…so…

Let the Earth Stand Still AGAIN…as a new generation see's what a wonderful film this was…perhaps…any new viewer should be requied to see the original first.

And…once again…I want to point out the music score….one that DEFINED movies to come!.

I will be curious to hear the new music from the new movie…but still say…that the new movie should include the original music plus new music by the ”70s band—-KLAATU".

As far as GORT goes….even today…a robot such as GORT could put fear into the MUSLIM world as well as the Christian world….even though the Christian world could accept this as truth….and in ISLAM..it would prove once again that the faith of Islam is false…and that Mohammed was a False Prophet.

Also remember….that in the original ”book”….GORT was the emissary…and KLAATU was the ROBOT.!

Hear KLAATU @ http://WWW.KLAATU.ORG

JIMMY THE LITTLE NEUTRINO

Jimmy on Nov 14, 2007

87

Who has info on getting a copy of the original short story by Harry Bates: 'Farewell to the Master'?
Perhaps an anthology of science fiction? Titel and anthologist would be helpful to allow looking for a copy on Amazon.com.

BTW the Theremin rocks - I built one from scratch and got the video of the concert violinist who became the American Theremin diva, Clara Rockmore.

For more info and audio samples: http://www.oldtemecula.com/theremin/

Frank Erickson on Nov 14, 2007

88

"As far as GORT goes….even today…a robot such as GORT could put fear into the MUSLIM world as well as the Christian world….even though the Christian world could accept this as truth….and in ISLAM..it would prove once again that the faith of Islam is false…and that Mohammed was a False Prophet."

Why does someone have to lower the tone and bring dumb religion into this?
Religion on ANY kind is just a form of madness you know!

I'm right he's wrong, no, he's wrong and I am right etc etc…
What a load of b*****ks!!!!!!!!!



Just because you 'believe' something, doesn't mean it's true!

Quote:
"You are the Messiah, and I should know, I've followed a few!"
Unquote.
Life of Brian, one of the best films ever made!!

Now then, when is the next stoning?

mark on Nov 15, 2007

89

To S. DICHT:

Perhaps, if we are lucky, Keanu Reeves will be cast as GORT, and not KLAATU.

Reeves is completely inappropriate in this remake. Rennie (in the original) sounded suave, looked older than his years. The effect was to lead the viewer to believe in his superior intellect. In the MATRIX films, for all of the F/X, you never have the feeling that NEO is the techno-master that he's supposed to be. In other words, decent actor, completely miscast.

What's next, Tommy Lee Jones in a remake of THE LIFE OF CHRIST ? ("Y'aint sinned — y'all cast thuh fust stone.") Or maybe Whoopi Goldberg in THE ELIZABETH MONTGOMERY STORY….

Mel Lanoma on Nov 20, 2007

90

When are the idiots in hollywood going to learn to NOT re-make classics. Movies such as War of the Worlds, The Thing, Gone With The Wind, etc, can NEVER be re-made. And The Day the Earth Stood Still is in that same catagory.

The unknown (to American Audiences) actor Renee, added mystery to the flick, since he was not known to the audiences here in the States. The musical score was very sci-fi-ish, not like all the commercial hip-hop and rap that is the background to most movies today. The visuals, in a pre-computer generated era, were better than most of the stuff today. Just like in the original War of the Worlds, explosions looked real because they were. Not like the explosions today that look fake because they are computer generated. There should be a law against re-making and RUINING great movies of the past!

I for one will not give my money to the box office to support the destruction of a classic.

Steve on Dec 11, 2007

91

This is my all time favorite movie. I hate to see it messed with. I dont think a remake of this movie is possible unless the original score is used along with the exact dialogue. I also believe making the movie take place just as it did in 1951 in Washington DC would improve its effectiveness. The film was way ahead of its time when it came out. We dont need a lot of special effects. The movie was more suspenseful then it was an action movie. I think Clive Owen would be a good pick for the role of Klatu and some unknown actress to play Mrs Benson.

If FOX screws this up they will be seeing " The Day the Box Office Stood Still "

Paul on Dec 24, 2007

92

"As far as Gort goes…", Heck. If it were up to me, be he muslim, jew, or whateva, if you are "human" beware o' ye universe. Get a "Gort" for every man, woman, and child for this planet of el whackos!! *holds Patricia O'Neal, so that she never shows up to give Gort that "important" message. KABOOOOM!!!

R.S. Habeeb on Dec 24, 2007

93

Trust me ……GORT is no muslim

Jimmy Askins on Dec 24, 2007

94

Not sure, but I'm sure that I heard Keanu Reeves is playing Klatu. But with his acting ability, he'd definately make a better Gort. Stand and point.

El Blanco on Dec 29, 2007

95

LOL, EL Blanco I couldn't agree with you more!!

R.S. Habeeb on Dec 29, 2007

96

I sure hope they do make a remake of one of the best sci-fi movies ever, and I hope they don't screw it up. I thought the remake of "War of the Worlds" was absolutely terrible. Steven Spielberg turned an interesting and exciting story about an invasion and how it was being coped with into a soap opera about Tom Cruise and his dysfunctional family. I can't begin to describe how disappointing I found it. Please let "The Day the Earth Stood Still" not get side tracked in a similar fashion!

Steve on Jan 12, 2008

97

RE: Who has info on getting a copy of the original short story by Harry Bates: 'Farewell to the Master'? Frank Erickson on Nov 14, 2007:

Just enter 'Harry Bates' in Amazon / Books search, to find "The Day the Earth Stood Still and Other Classic SF Novellas" (Kindle Edition)
by Harry Bates. It is also collected in an anthology from long ago …. .

stcoleridge on Jan 14, 2008

98

No matter how the remake turns out, NOTHING can change the fact that the original is a great masterpiece!!!!

Ron on Jan 14, 2008

99

Harry Bates Story is online @ http://thenostalgialeague.com/olmag/bates.html

Jon Hornstein on Jan 30, 2008

100

Please please put some time and into this remake don't just go for over the top special effects. we want a story as well one that is in context.
EG. like Thunder birds could have been a great movie sorry but kid saving the thunder bird team what a waste.
Alien VS Preditor out of context with the original story the alien took days to gestate not hours.
The list is endless of remake and follow on movies the failed.

paul Rogers on Feb 2, 2008

101

I pray that they are not using the storyline from the original one by Harry Bates. I hated it, when I read it. It was very short, and boring. The movie was so much better. So Keanu Reeves could be "Gort" and Kathy Bates "Klaatu" *err have to reverse the names for this.

RSH on Feb 8, 2008

102

I can't wait, bring it on guy's!!!!! Best thing to happen in my life time!! I have chills all over!

Patrick Mignery on Feb 9, 2008

103

[…] in the works: A remake of The Day The Earth Stood Still. For God’s sake, leave Gort […]

Rose McGowan, Barbarella, Gort « fandumb on Feb 14, 2008

104

Please leave this classic alone it deserves more respect!

alan walsh england on Feb 19, 2008

105

This remake will be a dud if it doesn't have a great music score.
Go to http://www.klaatu.org and sign the petition to get Canadian rock group …KLAATU..to do the music score.
Songs like…Around the Universe…Little Neutrino…and…Calling Ocupants of Interplanitary Crafts , would add a bonus to the movie.

Remember…if Klaatu Barack Obama wins……the Earth will lose.

Jimmy Askins on Feb 29, 2008

106

Christopher Walken should be cast as Klaatu!!

That would mos def roKK my soXX

PennyJ on Mar 2, 2008

107

There was a message in the Movie relayed by Extraterrestials to the Peoples of Earth for that period, which has more or less gone unheeded.The Movie served a purpose bringing to the Nations of the World Earths Fate or Inevitable Contamination.They need to make the sequel to this Movie as the timing is right.Without meaning to be presumptuous,I have the" Final Message" or Warning relayed.The Engineering of which will blow your mind.But my task is to pass it on to the person in authority. With Steven Spielberg in Mind,I Need the means to make contact with him direct to deliver the 'Message from the Moon',without giving anything away or coming across as some sought of crackpot or nut case.Somehow I have found myself here as a possible avenue to acheive this task,as I realise that it will not be easy for a nobody to make direct contact with the Man himself.

wayne on Mar 3, 2008

108

i knew people would get all emotional about this the truth is let them remake it if it's crap then what exactly does that do to the original NOTHING..

Neonblue on Mar 15, 2008

109

…del Toro, or the actor who played the assassin in "No Country For Old Men", who have been great looking for this film. In the original story the main character was Gort, not Klaatu. Who do you think should play the robot???

RSH on Mar 28, 2008

110

Klaatu is going to be portrayed by Keanu Reeves. I liked him as Robert Arctor in a Scanner Darkly so I hope he soes a good job.

Robert on Apr 26, 2008

111

If anybody wants to look at possible followups to TDTESS, Ray Bradbury did two screenplays in 1981 (the 30th anniversary of the original film). His protagonist in both was Klaata, Klaatu's daughter.

His working title for the screenplays was "The Morning of the Second Day".

Browse the Internet. You'll find a master at the top of his form in both versions.

Tom Amies on Apr 29, 2008

112

I think it's the perfect time for this remake. At first, I thought, great, another Hollyweird liberal/regressive propaganda piece disguised as a science fiction movie. Preaching to us how you have to try to "understand" the murdering psychotic enemy who's trying to destroy you. That you have to try, somehow to "kaffe klatch" with evil dictators and armies of terrorist homicide bombers. But then I saw that Fox is making it, so I figured the studio that brought us PATTON and INDEPENDENCE DAY (the movie in which we kick ET's ass) must know what they're doing. When you think about it, the story is really more about the conservative "fighting fire with fire" (peace through strength) than the liberal "peace at any cost" (throw flowers at killers and sing kum-bayah to them). In a way i think WE are in the process of creating GORT, or becoming him, and ulimately, the police force of the galaxy. In the same way we are now telling the Islamo-Fascist terrorists of the Middle East: "Cease your evil, your killing, your bombing, your terror, or you will be completely and irrevocably destroyed!"

Dick Doper on Apr 30, 2008

113

Keanu Reeves is perfect for the role. He is known as a mysterious person althrough his career, and he is alienated from typical Hollywood because he is his own person, and interesting . He has a slightly exotic look and that is right for a man from outer space. He's been coyly, called " Zen Master of the Universe " and stuff like that . Sometimes the camera does'nt do him justice , because I have read many a time that he is striking as far as looks go . One writter called him "supernaturely beautiful " when he was younger . He's right for the job .

Darlene on May 4, 2008

114

Darlene:

Think of Keannu Reeves, think of Michael Rennie and then think of Ralph Fiennes. There is no doubt Michael Rennie IS Klaatu. Ralph Fiennes is the perfect modern day Klaatu and without a credible star the movie will fail. Being beautiful is way down on the list of requirements for a believable man from outer space who frightens the entire world.

SPD on May 4, 2008