The Day the Earth Stood Still
The Day the Earth Stood Still

The Day the Earth Stood Still

2008Movie104 minEnglish

A representative of an alien race that went through drastic evolution to survive its own climate change, Klaatu comes to Earth to assess whether humanity can prevent the environmental damage they have inflicted on their own planet. When barred from speaking to the United Nations, he decides humankind shall be exterminated so the planet can survive.

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Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes21%
Metacritic55/100
Google Users59%
Director: Scott DerricksonGenres: Science Fiction, Thriller, Drama

Plot Summary

An alien emissary named Klaatu arrives on Earth with a dire warning: humanity must change its ways or face extinction. He possesses advanced technology and the ability to control global systems, presenting a formidable challenge to governmental forces. As Klaatu observes human behavior, he grapples with the planet's fate, aided by a scientist and her stepson, who become entangled in his mission.

Critical Reception

The 2008 remake of 'The Day the Earth Stood Still' received mixed reviews from critics and audiences. While some appreciated its updated special effects and Keanu Reeves' stoic portrayal of Klaatu, many found it to be a pale imitation of the original classic, criticizing its heavy-handed environmental message and deviation from the source material's philosophical depth.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its visual effects and Keanu Reeves' performance.
  • Criticized for deviating from the original's themes and for an overly didactic environmental message.
  • Often considered a lackluster remake that fails to capture the original's impact.

Google audience: Google users had a divided opinion, with many appreciating the modern take on the story and the special effects, but a significant portion found the plot predictable and the environmental message too overt, wishing for a stronger connection to the original film's intellectual core.

Fun Fact

The iconic spherical spacecraft in the film was designed to resemble a dandelion seed head, reflecting the theme of global propagation and change.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

2 reviews
Wuchak

Wuchak

***Intriguing, Spiritual, Insightful, Moving*** "The Day the Earth Stood Still" (2008) is an intriguing, powerful and even moving modern sci-fi blockbuster. I particularly like the symbolism: Klaatu=Christ, GORT=YaHWeH, as well as the nu...
Rob

Rob

Terrible remake, original vastly superior

Youtube Reviews

6 videos