Movie spotlight
Alien Attack
Earth's Moon is the site of Moonbase Alpha, a scientific research colony nestled in the crater Plato. Staffed by over 300 men and women from Earth, it is the operations center for several space expeditions. It is also a watchdog for vast amounts of atomic waste from Earth stored in silos on the Moon's far side. Magnetic radiation builds up and causes the wastes to explode with such force that the Earth's centripetal pull on the Moon is overcome, and the Moon is broken free of Earth's orbit to drift at incredible speed out of the Solar System off the plane of the ecliptic. The survivors on Moonbase Alpha are unable to return to Earth and must survive in unknown space on their wandering Moon. They encounter a planet whose advanced people project an illusion of a devastating attack on Moonbase. This TV movie was edited from scenes of two episodes ("Breakaway" and "War Games") of "Space: 1999" (1975).
Insights
Plot Summary
In the midst of a space mission, astronauts discover that their ship has been infiltrated by a deadly alien creature. As the creature systematically hunts down the crew, they must find a way to survive and stop it before it reaches Earth. The film blends elements of suspense and creature feature horror as the dwindling crew fights for their lives in the confines of their spaceship.
Critical Reception
Alien Attack (also known as 'The Devil Times Five' which is incorrect, this is a different film) is a low-budget science fiction horror film that garnered minimal attention upon its release. It is often cited as an example of the numerous B-movies produced during the era, aiming to capitalize on the success of more prominent sci-fi horror films. Critical reception was generally poor, with many critics pointing to its derivative plot, uninspired special effects, and weak performances.
What Reviewers Say
Often criticized for its unoriginal concept and reliance on genre tropes.
Special effects are noted as being particularly weak, even for its time.
Performances are generally considered uninspired, failing to elevate the material.
Google audience: Audience reviews are scarce, but those available often describe it as a forgettable B-movie with little to offer beyond a basic premise. It's typically viewed as a film that failed to stand out in a crowded genre.
Fun Fact
The film was shot in the Philippines, utilizing local talent and resources to keep production costs extremely low, a common practice for many exploitation films of the era.
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