Cast
View AllNick Plakias
as Alan Grimes
Cynthia Cline
as Vivian
LaVerne Light
as Dr. Mansfield
Tom Arcuragi
as Dan Rivers
Phil Erickson
as Dr. Whitham
Brooks Clift
as Gen. David Gallagher
Martha Corrigan
as Woman on Veranda
Kathleen Long
as Planetarium Receptionist
Billy Crane
as Alan
Tom Harper
as Interviewer
Ed Lynch
as University Professor
Ida Agree
as Housewife
Crew
Director
- Michael A. DeGaetano
- Alessandro De Gaetano
Writer
- Michael A. DeGaetano
- Alessandro De Gaetano
Producer
- Michael A. DeGaetano
Reviews
talisencrw
Though this had a decent beginning with truly intriguing metaphysical ideas; a dated but fine psychedelic soundtrack; an interesting pseudo-documentary technique; complete with the requisite narration, to start things off with; decent surroundings and I liked the charm and 'Ivory Girl' beauty of the medium (played by Cynthia Cline--this seems to be her only film credit), this low-budget creeper has no momentum, and no idea in either how to build those ideas into something worthwhile, or where to go with them. The fractal graphics that are supposed to overwhelm us as no-cost special effects are horribly dated and left on-screen for way too long.
I haven't seen director DeGaetano's other, later two films, but I hope they're not the snoozefests that this was. Steer clear of this with all of your might--the poster is the best thing about the movie.
Apr 23, 2016
Thematic Analysis
As a science fiction narrative, UFO: Target Earth explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.
Director Michael A. DeGaetano brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1974, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of UFO: Target Earth took approximately 8 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $0.1 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 80 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 110 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The screenplay went through 6 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1974, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- Economic recession and oil crises were affecting global economies.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While UFO: Target Earth shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Quiet Earth, which focuses more on action than character development, UFO: Target Earth subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea and The Red Queen explore similar territory, UFO: Target Earth stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 1, 1974
- Runtime: 1h 20m
- Budget: $75,000
Where to Watch
