Alien Trespass: Review By Dodd

There are certain genres that originate in film history and continue to stay strong through decades of movie making. Take for example the basics: comedy, drama, horror, etc. They thrived in silent cinema and continue to do so today. However, when one gets into deeper and more specific subcategories within these genres, there is a question as to what can really stand the test of time. Take for example film noir. Critics never call creations of today "film noir" because projects lumped into these categories were what they were: black and white with expressionistic shadows. Today we get films referred to as neo-noir that are inspired by the original genre, but not the real deal. The very same can be said for the 1950's science fiction sub genre. Made obvious by the category, these were films from the 1950's decade that focused on alien intruders attacking our planet. They were released during a period in history when the United States feared Communist attacks and these movies are remembered for their cheesy laser effects, and somber acting by the leads. Since the end of that decade, other science fiction films were released that more accurately reflected the current climate, and the 50's science fiction film remained a memorable artifact. Yes, the 1950's are over, and this is exactly why I fail to see the point behind Alien Trespass, a modern-shot 1950's science fiction film.

Alien Trespass is actually the title of the film within the film that we are treated to as an audience. It turns out Alien Trespass was a film made in the 1950's that was shelved by studio executives, and we get to see it for the first time. The movie stars Eric McCormack as space expert Ted Lewis. A mysterious alien life form lands on planet Earth along with the arrival of a crashed space ship containing a faceless pilot decked out in silver. When Ted goes to explore the crash site, he is captured by the faceless being named Urp and used as a vessel so that Urp can blend in with the Earthlings. Urp has landed in a small Mojave town because another alien life form, known as Goata, are plotting to take over the world. The Goata are one-eyes, tentacled creatures that turn humans into puddles of watery matter. However, the local townsfolk, including the police chief (Dan Lauria, remember him from The Wonder Years?), are not so sold on Urp's plans to destroy the Goata. It is up to Urp and a perky waitress who is taken by Urp's plans (Jenni Baird) to hit the Goata where it really hurts.

Alien Trespass is said to be a movie for fans of 1950's science fiction. It is, after all, a clear homage to the genre. The visual effects are awful, the plot line is familiarly paranoid, and the acting is very deadpan. The filmmakers obviously have respect for the genre. But my question is simply, "Why?" This movie is not really a spoof of the genre, but rather a recreation of these movies that were marvels back then that come off as laughable with audiences today. Director R.W Goodwin goes so far to capture every detail, including the sloppy and confused editing. There were people in the audience who unsurprisingly appreciated this throwback, while there were many who walked out of the theater. Personally, I love the genre, but want to know why this recreation was necessary. I would compare this to Gus Van Sant's shot-for-shot remake of Psycho. It is clear that the remake pays a certain respect, but I really could have saved time and money by watching the original Psycho. The same can be said for Alien Trespass. As the film progressed, what I really wanted to do was leave so I could rent Forbidden Planet, Plan 9 From Outer Space, or The Blob. Those are the true time capsules that make me laugh in enjoyment because they are the real deal. Recreating the whole experience seems like an exercise in futility.

I suppose the performances are successful since the actors do a good job of imitating amateur performances. Eric McCormack plays the dapper, pipe-smoking leading man quite well and Jenni Baird is decent as the leading lady who takes the initiative in trying to combat the invaders. It is also a pleasant surprise to see Dan Lauria come out of nowhere back into the limelight. However, I am not quite sure what Robert Patrick is doing here in a wasted, minor role as a deputy who comes and goes unnoticed.

I do not hate Alien Trespass. I respect 1950's science fiction films and I can tell the filmmakers are paying reverence to the beloved genre. I just think that this finished product is pointless and brings nothing original to the table. There is nothing here that fans cannot get from watching an actual science fiction film from the 1950's. At least Tim Burton had the creative edge to make something new while also paying homage with his film Mars Attacks! Alien Trespass is a film that bored me because it does nothing but hit its audience over the head with the obvious. My suggestion is to rent one of the classic titles that this movie is trying to recreate, and skip this pointlessly dull exercise.