Earth Vs. The Flying Saucers (1956)

A scientist (Hugh Marlowe, ALL ABOUT EVE) in charge of a space program is contacted by aliens from outer space. Their planet is dying and they want to colonize Earth. But how to stop them? This modestly entertaining piece of 1950s science fiction suffers from over earnestness. With the dullest of second tier leading men like Hugh Marlowe (where's Kenneth Tobey when you need him?) and poor Joan Taylor saddled with the drab "wife" role, the movie desperately needs an infusion of humor to leaven things out. Tim Burton's homage to EARTH VS. THE FLYING SAUCERS, the witty MARS ATTACKS succeeded in doing just that. The special effects work by the legendary Ray Harryhausen is noteworthy and the film isn't long enough for any lethargy to set in. Directed by Fred F. Sears. With Morris Ankrum, Donald Curtis and Thomas Browne Henry.