I first saw this film on CZcams 10 years ago. I wanted to giggle so badly at the waddling starfish Pairans during the transformation scene, but that last act does really redeem the film...and it showcased peaceful aliens.
The only curiosity I can add is that the film's starfish creatures appeared to be the inspiration for the DC Comics villain Starro the Conqueror which first appeared in 1960 "Brave and Bold #28" which was also the first appearance of the Justice League of America. The comic book cover has become iconic.
Perhaps, but the film didn't make it to the United States until 1963. If it was an inspiration for Starro someone would have had to see the original film in 1957 in London or the 1956 showing in Japan. Not saying it wasn't, but it could just be as much of a coincidence.
Duuuude.... you just unlocked a deeply buried memory. When I was a kid, one of the local TV stations would show monster movies (usually Kaiju films) after Saturday morning cartoons were over. I'm quite sure this must have slipped past them, having all the outward appearances of a typical Kaiju movie. I remember quickly losing interest initially because of the slow beginning, and choosing to play with my Star Wars toys instead. But the movie kept playing in the background and I eventually just sat there kinda mesmerized and rode it out. Now I want to see it again. Thanks for the reminder. Geek note: the spinning ring things on the alien homeworld look exactly like the Kryptonian prison rings that hold General Zod at the beginning of the 1978 Superman film. And speaking of DC comics, the aliens in Warning from Space *must* have been the inspiration for Starro the Conqueror.
Warning from Space is such an overlooked and misunderstood film of its time, though if not for the giant starfish on the promotional material, many people would most likely turn their heads away from it. I'm glad to see this movie getting more attention. I never heard of the film The Day the Earth Caught Fire, but it looks interesting from what little you showed of it here.
Hi Jerome! (Jerome?) Yes, I've seen "Warning From Space" and share your assessment of it. What I cherish most is the starfish pillowcase aliens with giant eyes in their tummies. Speaking of starfish pillowcase aliens, are you familiar with the Starman series of films released in the mid-1960s starring Ken Utsui? These films all open with a meeting of the Interplanetary Council with starfish pillowcase aliens in dutiful attendance. Two of these films, "Attack From Space" and "Atomic Rulers of the World," are duds, but the other two, The Evil Brain From Outer Space" and "Invaders From Space," are gems. "Invaders From Space" is easily the most INTENSELY INSANE film ever made. It makes "Plan 9 From Outer Space" look like it was written and directed by Ingmar Bergman. The writer and directors must have had access to limitless supplies of LSD. The CIA was generous back then. By the way, these films were cobbled together from episodes of a "Starman" ("Super Giant" in Japan) TV series from the mid-1950s, which could explain their disjointedness. Anyway, I heartily recommend "Invaders From Space." You WILL NOT be bored!
This would've fit like a glove in Criterion's Shochiku Eclipse set. I love the kookiness of Japanese sci-fi of this era. It scratches an itch nothing else will.
One thing I admire about your Japanese sci-fi film reviews is you always to that extra mile with research rather than settle for a knee-jerk "whoa, that was weird" reaction. I've always liked Warning from Space despite undeniable moments of sluggishness and (inevitable?) goofiness. I admire its imagination and sincerity. The low IMDB rating makes me a little sad. Back in the day the fan community lauded this film as one of the more thoughtful Japanese sci-fi films.
I find it gives me a much clearer picture of the film if I try to understand the context of when it was made and who was behind it. The cast and crew set out to make the best movie they could, I believe, and I don't like to belittle their sincere efforts by just making snarky or condescending comments from a myopic, 21st-century perspective. Not that I consciously think all this as I make the videos, but if there's a philosophy behind my approach, I guess that's it. :) I'm glad you appreciate the way I handle them.
Saw this in the theater, and I also had expectations of silly monster movie, and for a little lost, not expecting it to be full of, um, plot important subtleties. Yeah, if I had been expecting a different kind of experience I think I would have been better prepared to digest it. I remember getting into the grim seriousness as I adjusted to it. A film that doesn't handle it well enough to communicate it's ideas on the first watch. Your review says it best!
Love this movie. Very unique in the fact that the threat doesn't come from the aliens but instead they are an ally against the threat. I love movies from this era. They are like a little time capsules of how the world was in a different time and place. The Last War is on my list of films to check out too, would like to see a review soon.
I've remembered this movie from childhood. Those starfish aliens are a visual I have carried with me since I was a kid. I did not see it in color then. Thanks for reminding me of the name. I am interested in seeing it on Amazon. I also remember this movie because my class at school was assigned to each write a short story. One kid said he forgot his at home and proceeded to tell the teacher the entire plot of this movie. I didn't rat him out. As I remember my story borrowed heavily from Ivanhoe. Always enjoy your reviews. Take care and have fun.
You know, this is spot on, the film played things very straight. The aliens, in spite of their appearance, were done somberly, and the humans were also done well. Heck, even the leader alien got to do things with drama and the change into the human was really well done. Bravo on covering this!
Thanks! Yes, I thought the way the aliens were portrayed in general was quite original and the emphasis on humanity impressive. Contrary to expectations, I found it a surprisingly meaningful film.
For what it's worth, I keep mistaking this movie for the similarly titled "MESSAGE from Space: Galactic Wars" (also on Prime). But then, I'm pretty sure a LOT of people mistake "Warning" for something else. I've caught a scene or two over the years, but never watched it in it's entirety. Guess I'll finally have to pull the trigger. " . . . fishy . . . " 🤣
Very surprising. I've seen the promotional art a few times and was sure this would be a low budget creature feature. Looks like it's something entirely different. May have to check it out. Thanks for the insightful review.
I'm going to attempt a movie a day in 2023, and I expect many of them will be me catching up on your recommendations! Warning from Space has been on my radar for years, and for some reason I've never watched it.
FUN FACT: In space, no one can hear you warn. This movie seems interesting. I like older movies because I enjoy seeing their approach with practical effects, lighting, and film techniques. Older movies also relied heavily on story. They didn't have the luxury of glossing over what makes a movie a movie by just relying on a computer to spew something out and calling it a day. Chances are you'll have a much more memorable time watching old films, even if they ultimately miss the mark. The question I have about this movie is: Do you think it could benefit greatly with some simple editing?
This was Daiei’s first sci-fi movie. Did you know before Gamera, Daiei was going to make a giant rat movie? But some idiot at Daiei thought it’d be a good idea to use live sewer rats. The rats had diseases and fleas. Daiei even had to burn down an entire studio. Also you should check out Gorgo.
I first saw WARNING FROM SPACE on tv in about 1972 or so, on a Saturday afternoon monster movie show, and I really didn't give it a lot of thought. I saw it again a few years ago, on DVD (yes, the English version), but I did discover that there was a lot more going on here. A very good movie. Love the festive hat. Merry CHRIST -mas, Sister Jerome!
Shades of the Giant CIaw! I think you've just invented a new classification of movie - the serious movie ruined by the monster. Also, do not forget The Maze(reviewed recently). I am a fan of all three of these movies. I have to say though the Claw made me fall out of my chair laughing on first viewing, The Maze made me chuckle, this one has never made me laugh. I've seen it several times and it really is a good movie - very thoughtful - it always held my attention as a kid.
Ha, I hadn't thought of that! The Maze and Warning from Space I'd argue are both good movies *despite* their reveals. The Giant Claw... I don't know, I think that goofy monster makes the movie better. :)
Hi from Australia.I enjoy watching your reviews. There's something wholesome,warm and engaging about them. There's a science fiction movie titled "The Illustrated man" from 1969 you might like to consider reviewing sometime, You are probably inundated with suggestions, but I thought I'd suggest it anyway. Keep up the great work.
I own the movie on both the new Arrow Films Blu-ray and the infamous DVD by Alpha Video. Obviously the blu-ray is better, but the old DVD has a VHS tape nostalgic charm.
It seems like five different movies rolled into one ? This sounds like must see cinema . I can’t wait to watch it . Thank you for this recommendation ! Incidentally , I watched Night Tide last night , and I thoroughly enjoyed it’s strangeness . I appreciate your bringing it to my attention . Cheers !
@@JeromeWeiselberry You're welcome . I really appreciate all of the great movies that you have steered me towards . I look forward to future recommendations !!
Hi Jerome! To be honest, i had no access to see this film for a very long time.....til now (thanks Amazon/Arrow) I do agree, this film got really unfavorable comparisons with many kaiju films (which is why it got low ratings) which really doesn't give this film justice. This is a great sci film from Daiei before they tackled the famous Gamera. Love the special effects and yes they are pure cheese, but this i like and the doomsday near the end is well done. Great review!
watched this flick on a whim and I really enjoyed it .. not a masterpiece but they didn't overdo the effects so its not completely a laugh fest , with a good message about nuclear arms ... slow pace in the middle like u said so I had to rewind a few times great review
Not my kind of film but your reviews are always compelling. By the way, I saw 'Night Tide' this weekend and that is my kind of film! Thank you for steering me to it!
This video made me want to watch Warning From Space 1956.Which I did.Your investigative reporting had me prepared. I knew to disregard the image of the giant starfish alien photoshopped into the middle of a city.The picture shown in my science fiction movie reference guide.You had already done the taste test.And had reliably informed us. There is no big Kaiju in this stew. I saw the dubbed version.That will get me on the naughty list.Not the same experience by the account of your examples. I don't think that the good folks at AIP were into fidelity when it came to translation and editing.As long as audiences got the gist.Simplify and embellish when need be. My mind did tend to wander a bit in the first half.I don't know if that is because the story had yet to become fully involving? Or that my subconscious mind was displaying some kind of partisan support for her Ladyship. The last act turns into a disaster movie.With the Pairans almost forgotten.That red look reminds me of a certain kind of sunset. I quite enjoyed this film.Thanks to your preparation speech.Thank you.
I agree about the multiple personality aspect of the movie. To me it came across as a three parter: character drama, alien invader movie, apocalyptic disaster movie. I will not admit to dozing off in the middle and missing the crucial transformation of the dancer :) Speaking of which, my thoughts about the whole cabaret thing is that Japan was only a couple of years out from U.S. occupation at the time. When the LOL alien reveal scene finally eventuated, all I could think of was The Teletubbies! LOL!! :D I quite enjoyed the first third of character drama and slow build up and the final global apocalypse scenario.
I hope you didn't catch that stomach bug and that your family member that was sick is well. I love how you correctly pronounce the Japanese names! I used to study the Japanese language as a hobby. Was this a blu ray? The image quality was fantastic! I don't know if you watched the English dubbed version but one of the voice actors was the talented Peter Fernandez, who worked on the dubbing for several Japanese monster films right up to GODZILLA VS, THE SMOG MONSTER (1971). He also directed the dubbing for Japanese TV shows like ULTRAMAN and THE SPACE GIANTS, both from 1966. I've seen both the English and Japanese versions of THE LAST WAR. It has several Westerners such as Harold S. Conway who appeared in Godzilla films but I can't recommend it to anyone who has had a bad day. By the way, the IMDb is VERY unreliable! Thanks again, Jerome, and I look forward to your next controversial review!
Oh, yes, all is well now, thanks! Thanks also for complimenting my pronunciation. It has been a big learning process as far as that goes; while I think it's gotten better, there's still plenty of room for improvement. But just plowing through the names seems to be working out okay. :) No, as I said I watched the original version with subtitles that's on Prime. The quality is very good. Ha, I've heard that about The Last War, but it doesn't really deter me from wanting to see it.
i saw this years ago and only real memory i have of it was being confused. you mentioned it in your review, i would get confused as to which "movie" i was watching. was i watching the disaster movie, or did the editor cut to the monster movie? oh no, we are on the character study movie... nope, wrong, we are on the humans-are-flawed movie. i'll have to give it another go!
I first saw this one Saturday afternoon when I was home sick and just wanted something to take my mind off the flu...but like you, realized that this wasn’t a bug-eyed aliens movie (even though it does have bug-eyed aliens) and it required more attention than I could give it in my condition. I found a terrible transfer of the English dub in one of those “50 Sci-fi Movies” sets that people who think they’re doing you a favor send you, but it took me years to find a decent transfer of a subtitled version. I sort of agree with you that it’s not the most exciting film I’ve seen, but that it has things to say and beats more lauded films to the punch. Part of me believes that if this were directed by Ishiro Honda, we might all regard it very differently.
Ugh, those "50 Sci-fi Movies" sets are such disappointments. Sure, you get all those movies for ten cents apiece, but the quality is so horrendous that they're almost unwatchable. I'm glad you finally tracked down a decent copy of this. I had a similar thought about how people might respond differently if Honda had directed it. I actually enjoyed seeing a fresh take on Honda-style material, and there were several instances where I liked the way the camera was used. There were an awful lot of shots of people sitting at a telescope, but at least they were filmed from a variety of angles.
I loved that commentary, and the mention of DAY THE EARTH CAUGHT FIRE, which is an amazing movie although obviously is different in a of ways from WARNING FROM SPACE. Also did not think about the transformation sequence as being similar to METROPOLIS, although it wouldn't surprise me if it was an homage. (I feel confident the makers of SUPERMAN watched this though -- that "spinning ring" prison during the Kryptonian trial looks suspiciously like the one on the Pairan ship.) Am surprised you didn't mention GORATH (1964) as the plot is quite similar; if you haven't seen it yet you need to! (warning: the English version is notoriously terrible) Having watched both the dubbed and subbed versions, I'm still convinced we're meant to assume the poor scientist was tied to that chair for several weeks. Yes, I have more trouble with that than the idea of starfish-blanket aliens. 🙂
Forearmed with the information in your review (and expectations adjusted accordingly), I really enjoyed this curiosity of a film. I don’t know if I saw a different cut to the one you watched, but the starfish costumes were shown in all their goofy glory about two minutes in - an expositional scene set on the alien space station (I think that’s what it was), with a group of the aliens discussing the plot to infiltrate human society to issue their warning. I had a few niggling questions through the film that bothered me more than the starfish costumes. Given their level of technology and command of earth languages, why did the aliens need such a convoluted plot to warn earth of the approaching planet? Was it a good idea to be evacuating people underground in the face of an impending interplanetary collision?! And if the alien’s planet was on the opposite side of the sun from Earth, why would the destruction of Earth result in the destruction of their own planet? That said, it was an intriguing watch. Thanks for reviewing it.
I'm glad to hear it! Was the version you watched a dubbed edit? That could explain that scene, which definitely wasn't in the version I watched; or rather, it was, but it appeared later. I can't say I approve the idea to move the reveal of the aliens from the end of Act 1 to the beginning of the film; it takes away all the mystery! Those are valid questions you bring up, and I had a couple similar ones of my own. We get no answers, of course. :)
After watching this video, I went to Prime and watched the movie. I think it was pretty good despite the silly starfish costumes. It has a pretty good plot, and certainly had high stakes. It was worth the watch. I'm also going to leave a recommendation to you called Gone With The Light. A Chinese movie about what happens to people left behind when a beam of light causes couples to disappear all over the Earth. The couples were apparently very much in love, so those left behind infer from this that they are not in love causing them to examine their relationships with their spouses and Friends. It is a bit long at 131 minutes and sometimes you feel that length, but ends on a positive note. Keep watching through the credits because that's when the payoff between the main character and his wife is shown.
Well, that was interesting. Watched it earlier today and still thinking about it. It does seem well made and could easily be called Warning From 1956 since what happened there could be in our future. I would hope we could deal with planet killing asteroids in the same way. I liked the use of animals to tell the story, dogs, cats, turtles, and that poor bird. In other end of the world movies I've seen neighing horses and noisy flocks of birds. They always know! Thanks for this J,. I think you'll raise that IMDb rating yet.
I had never heard of Warning from Space until your review, what a strange sounding film, a strange sounding film I now want to see. If I was alien sushi Japan is the last place I’d want to visit lol. The starfish aliens remind me of another starfish alien-Starro czcams.com/video/qr2Lpu4c1Ro/video.html I believe Starro was created in the 60s so must’ve been inspired by Warning from Space. I’m curious to see where Warning from Space goes in the third act, after everything you’ve said it does seem like it was ahead of it’s time. The sound clip where you discussed the similarities between the sounds of the starfish and the percussion from Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard made me laugh so much lol, it was very funny and so oddly accurate. I bet if they had a Star Trek universal translator they’d sound like Patrick from SpongeBob, their look is awesomely silly, they’re like walking starfish wearing grey pyjamas. ~ Thank you Ms Weiselberry ~
The star people costumes reminds me of Attack of the Gian Leeches. Warning from Space is a much better movie of course. I wonder if "When Worlds Collide" (1951) had an influence on "Warning From Space". The American style song and dance could have been American post war influence, American troops in Japan. Enjoyed your fair and balanced review.
Oh, it's definitely a better movie, ha! Good catch on the costumes. I'm sure the strong American presence in the country gave rise to those dance numbers, which seemed like imitations of what you'd see in an MGM musical at the time. Thanks!
Low ratings for these B Sc-Fi movies are deceptive. They can have low ratings but still be liked by a lot of people like for example The Giant Claw, Reptilicus and Invasion of the Saucer Men.
This was just over ten years after ww2...can't imagine the Japanese not making such a movie... ...though the aliens been grossed out by our human noses...that's rough
If you like Asimov the foundation and empire series is good, but absolute best sci-fi/ fantasy author is Gene Wolfe. If you look into Wolfe you will find many sci-fi authors are also big fans.
I have not seen this movie but was familiar with it before your review. I did know about the bad starfish costumes and basic plot. I still don't have a great desire to watch it. I have seen The Last War (1961, Toho). It stars Frankie Sakai, from Mothra, and Akira Takarada. It's pretty good, but I don't think it is much like this movie after watching your review. This movie is similar to Gorath, which was directed by Ishiro Honda. There's a link to The Last War on Wikipedia. Don't know if it's a good version to watch. I own a good, maybe bootleg copy of it, which was good quality. If you want to watch dumb Kaiju movies, you still have some Showa era Gamera movies to watch.
I first saw this film on CZcams 10 years ago. I wanted to giggle so badly at the waddling starfish Pairans during the transformation scene, but that last act does really redeem the film...and it showcased peaceful aliens.
The only curiosity I can add is that the film's starfish creatures appeared to be the inspiration for the DC Comics villain Starro the Conqueror which first appeared in 1960 "Brave and Bold #28" which was also the first appearance of the Justice League of America. The comic book cover has become iconic.
Perhaps, but the film didn't make it to the United States until 1963. If it was an inspiration for Starro someone would have had to see the original film in 1957 in London or the 1956 showing in Japan. Not saying it wasn't, but it could just be as much of a coincidence.
Duuuude.... you just unlocked a deeply buried memory. When I was a kid, one of the local TV stations would show monster movies (usually Kaiju films) after Saturday morning cartoons were over. I'm quite sure this must have slipped past them, having all the outward appearances of a typical Kaiju movie. I remember quickly losing interest initially because of the slow beginning, and choosing to play with my Star Wars toys instead. But the movie kept playing in the background and I eventually just sat there kinda mesmerized and rode it out. Now I want to see it again. Thanks for the reminder.
Geek note: the spinning ring things on the alien homeworld look exactly like the Kryptonian prison rings that hold General Zod at the beginning of the 1978 Superman film.
And speaking of DC comics, the aliens in Warning from Space *must* have been the inspiration for Starro the Conqueror.
Watching this movie now.
A good Sunday morning with a cup of coffee.
Cheers.
Sounds refreshing. Enjoy!
I'm not familiar with this movie but found the whole misclassification/reassessment angle of your review really interesting.
This film looks right up my alley. Love these old classics and rare gems. Thanks for the review!
Warning from Space is such an overlooked and misunderstood film of its time, though if not for the giant starfish on the promotional material, many people would most likely turn their heads away from it. I'm glad to see this movie getting more attention. I never heard of the film The Day the Earth Caught Fire, but it looks interesting from what little you showed of it here.
Hi Jerome! (Jerome?) Yes, I've seen "Warning From Space" and share your assessment of it. What I cherish most is the starfish pillowcase aliens with giant eyes in their tummies. Speaking of starfish pillowcase aliens, are you familiar with the Starman series of films released in the mid-1960s starring Ken Utsui? These films all open with a meeting of the Interplanetary Council with starfish pillowcase aliens in dutiful attendance. Two of these films, "Attack From Space" and "Atomic Rulers of the World," are duds, but the other two, The Evil Brain From Outer Space" and "Invaders From Space," are gems. "Invaders From Space" is easily the most INTENSELY INSANE film ever made. It makes "Plan 9 From Outer Space" look like it was written and directed by Ingmar Bergman. The writer and directors must have had access to limitless supplies of LSD. The CIA was generous back then. By the way, these films were cobbled together from episodes of a "Starman" ("Super Giant" in Japan) TV series from the mid-1950s, which could explain their disjointedness. Anyway, I heartily recommend "Invaders From Space." You WILL NOT be bored!
This would've fit like a glove in Criterion's Shochiku Eclipse set. I love the kookiness of Japanese sci-fi of this era. It scratches an itch nothing else will.
Shochiku didn’t make this. Daiei did.
One thing I admire about your Japanese sci-fi film reviews is you always to that extra mile with research rather than settle for a knee-jerk "whoa, that was weird" reaction. I've always liked Warning from Space despite undeniable moments of sluggishness and (inevitable?) goofiness. I admire its imagination and sincerity. The low IMDB rating makes me a little sad. Back in the day the fan community lauded this film as one of the more thoughtful Japanese sci-fi films.
I find it gives me a much clearer picture of the film if I try to understand the context of when it was made and who was behind it. The cast and crew set out to make the best movie they could, I believe, and I don't like to belittle their sincere efforts by just making snarky or condescending comments from a myopic, 21st-century perspective. Not that I consciously think all this as I make the videos, but if there's a philosophy behind my approach, I guess that's it. :) I'm glad you appreciate the way I handle them.
Saw this in the theater, and I also had expectations of silly monster movie, and for a little lost, not expecting it to be full of, um, plot important subtleties. Yeah, if I had been expecting a different kind of experience I think I would have been better prepared to digest it. I remember getting into the grim seriousness as I adjusted to it. A film that doesn't handle it well enough to communicate it's ideas on the first watch. Your review says it best!
Love this movie. Very unique in the fact that the threat doesn't come from the aliens but instead they are an ally against the threat. I love movies from this era. They are like a little time capsules of how the world was in a different time and place. The Last War is on my list of films to check out too, would like to see a review soon.
I've remembered this movie from childhood. Those starfish aliens are a visual I have carried with me since I was a kid. I did not see it in color then. Thanks for reminding me of the name. I am interested in seeing it on Amazon.
I also remember this movie because my class at school was assigned to each write a short story. One kid said he forgot his at home and proceeded to tell the teacher the entire plot of this movie. I didn't rat him out. As I remember my story borrowed heavily from Ivanhoe.
Always enjoy your reviews. Take care and have fun.
Sounds a bit like the last act is very 'The Day the Earth Caught Fire'. I'm going to watch this as it sounds right up my street.
You know, this is spot on, the film played things very straight. The aliens, in spite of their appearance, were done somberly, and the humans were also done well. Heck, even the leader alien got to do things with drama and the change into the human was really well done. Bravo on covering this!
Thanks! Yes, I thought the way the aliens were portrayed in general was quite original and the emphasis on humanity impressive. Contrary to expectations, I found it a surprisingly meaningful film.
For what it's worth, I keep mistaking this movie for the similarly titled "MESSAGE from Space: Galactic Wars" (also on Prime). But then, I'm pretty sure a LOT of people mistake "Warning" for something else. I've caught a scene or two over the years, but never watched it in it's entirety. Guess I'll finally have to pull the trigger.
" . . . fishy . . . " 🤣
Very surprising. I've seen the promotional art a few times and was sure this would be a low budget creature feature. Looks like it's something entirely different. May have to check it out. Thanks for the insightful review.
Thanks for this super cool review!
I'm going to attempt a movie a day in 2023, and I expect many of them will be me catching up on your recommendations! Warning from Space has been on my radar for years, and for some reason I've never watched it.
Wow, ambitious! Good luck. :)
FUN FACT: In space, no one can hear you warn.
This movie seems interesting. I like older movies because I enjoy seeing their approach with practical effects, lighting, and film techniques. Older movies also relied heavily on story. They didn't have the luxury of glossing over what makes a movie a movie by just relying on a computer to spew something out and calling it a day. Chances are you'll have a much more memorable time watching old films, even if they ultimately miss the mark.
The question I have about this movie is: Do you think it could benefit greatly with some simple editing?
This was Daiei’s first sci-fi movie. Did you know before Gamera, Daiei was going to make a giant rat movie? But some idiot at Daiei thought it’d be a good idea to use live sewer rats. The rats had diseases and fleas. Daiei even had to burn down an entire studio. Also you should check out Gorgo.
I don't think I'd heard that story before. Sounds like a mess.
I've got Gorgo on the to-do list!
Always love your Saturday night content Jerome
I first saw WARNING FROM SPACE on tv in about 1972 or so, on a Saturday afternoon monster movie show, and I really didn't give it a lot of thought.
I saw it again a few years ago, on DVD (yes, the English version), but I did discover that there was a lot more going on here. A very good movie.
Love the festive hat.
Merry CHRIST -mas, Sister Jerome!
Shades of the Giant CIaw! I think you've just invented a new classification of movie - the serious movie ruined by the monster. Also, do not forget The Maze(reviewed recently). I am a fan of all three of these movies. I have to say though the Claw made me fall out of my chair laughing on first viewing, The Maze made me chuckle, this one has never made me laugh. I've seen it several times and it really is a good movie - very thoughtful - it always held my attention as a kid.
Ha, I hadn't thought of that! The Maze and Warning from Space I'd argue are both good movies *despite* their reveals. The Giant Claw... I don't know, I think that goofy monster makes the movie better. :)
Hi from Australia.I enjoy watching your reviews. There's something wholesome,warm and engaging about them. There's a science fiction movie titled "The Illustrated man" from 1969 you might like to consider reviewing sometime, You are probably inundated with suggestions, but I thought I'd suggest it anyway. Keep up the great work.
Hello, and thank you very much! Suggestions are always welcome and appreciated. :)
I own the movie on both the new Arrow Films Blu-ray and the infamous DVD by Alpha Video. Obviously the blu-ray is better, but the old DVD has a VHS tape nostalgic charm.
Star of stage and pond!
It seems like five different movies rolled into one ?
This sounds like must see cinema .
I can’t wait to watch it .
Thank you for this recommendation !
Incidentally , I watched Night Tide last night , and I thoroughly enjoyed it’s strangeness .
I appreciate your bringing it to my attention .
Cheers !
I hope you enjoy it as much as I ended up doing!
Ha, glad to hear you liked the atmospheric Night Tide. You're welcome, and thank you!
@@JeromeWeiselberry You're welcome .
I really appreciate all of the great movies that you have steered me towards . I look forward to future recommendations !!
Hi Jerome! To be honest, i had no access to see this film for a very long time.....til now (thanks Amazon/Arrow) I do agree, this film got really unfavorable comparisons with many kaiju films (which is why it got low ratings) which really doesn't give this film justice. This is a great sci film from Daiei before they tackled the famous Gamera. Love the special effects and yes they are pure cheese, but this i like and the doomsday near the end is well done. Great review!
watched this flick on a whim and I really enjoyed it .. not a masterpiece but they didn't overdo the effects so its not completely a laugh fest , with a good message about nuclear arms ...
slow pace in the middle like u said so I had to rewind a few times
great review
I'm so glad you enjoyed it too!
Not my kind of film but your reviews are always compelling. By the way, I saw 'Night Tide' this weekend and that is my kind of film! Thank you for steering me to it!
You're welcome! Glad you liked it. :)
Thats my dad’s voice at the beginning 😂😂😂
Scorsese just used it for his Squarespace Superbowl ad 🙏
I remember this movie. The starfish beings!
This video made me want to watch Warning From Space 1956.Which I did.Your investigative reporting had me prepared.
I knew to disregard the image of the giant starfish alien photoshopped into the middle of a city.The picture shown in my
science fiction movie reference guide.You had already done the taste test.And had reliably informed us.
There is no big Kaiju in this stew.
I saw the dubbed version.That will get me on the naughty list.Not the same experience by the account of your examples.
I don't think that the good folks at AIP were into fidelity when it came to translation and editing.As long as audiences got
the gist.Simplify and embellish when need be.
My mind did tend to wander a bit in the first half.I don't know if that is because the story had yet to become fully involving?
Or that my subconscious mind was displaying some kind of partisan support for her Ladyship.
The last act turns into a disaster movie.With the Pairans almost forgotten.That red look reminds me of a certain kind of sunset.
I quite enjoyed this film.Thanks to your preparation speech.Thank you.
I agree about the multiple personality aspect of the movie. To me it came across as a three parter: character drama, alien invader movie, apocalyptic disaster movie. I will not admit to dozing off in the middle and missing the crucial transformation of the dancer :) Speaking of which, my thoughts about the whole cabaret thing is that Japan was only a couple of years out from U.S. occupation at the time.
When the LOL alien reveal scene finally eventuated, all I could think of was The Teletubbies! LOL!! :D I quite enjoyed the first third of character drama and slow build up and the final global apocalypse scenario.
Teletubbies! You're right, they are kind of like that! :o
I'm in love
I hope you didn't catch that stomach bug and that your family member that was sick is well. I love how you correctly pronounce the Japanese names! I used to study the Japanese language as a hobby. Was this a blu ray? The image quality was fantastic! I don't know if you watched the English dubbed version but one of the voice actors was the talented Peter Fernandez, who worked on the dubbing for several Japanese monster films right up to GODZILLA VS, THE SMOG MONSTER (1971). He also directed the dubbing for Japanese TV shows like ULTRAMAN and THE SPACE GIANTS, both from 1966. I've seen both the English and Japanese versions of THE LAST WAR. It has several Westerners such as Harold S. Conway who appeared in Godzilla films but I can't recommend it to anyone who has had a bad day. By the way, the IMDb is VERY unreliable! Thanks again, Jerome, and I look forward to your next controversial review!
Oh, yes, all is well now, thanks! Thanks also for complimenting my pronunciation. It has been a big learning process as far as that goes; while I think it's gotten better, there's still plenty of room for improvement. But just plowing through the names seems to be working out okay. :)
No, as I said I watched the original version with subtitles that's on Prime. The quality is very good. Ha, I've heard that about The Last War, but it doesn't really deter me from wanting to see it.
Always love your reviews!
Thank you!
I find that percussion sound funny. It sounds like someone with the hiccups. Me and Julio hiccup lol
i saw this years ago and only real memory i have of it was being confused. you mentioned it in your review, i would get confused as to which "movie" i was watching. was i watching the disaster movie, or did the editor cut to the monster movie? oh no, we are on the character study movie... nope, wrong, we are on the humans-are-flawed movie. i'll have to give it another go!
The Starfish Aliens in this Movie also appeared in the Star Man(Super-Giant) films.
Good review, thanks.
Big Jerome Weiselberry fan btw
They are loads of fun. I wanted more aliens.
I first saw this one Saturday afternoon when I was home sick and just wanted something to take my mind off the flu...but like you, realized that this wasn’t a bug-eyed aliens movie (even though it does have bug-eyed aliens) and it required more attention than I could give it in my condition. I found a terrible transfer of the English dub in one of those “50 Sci-fi Movies” sets that people who think they’re doing you a favor send you, but it took me years to find a decent transfer of a subtitled version. I sort of agree with you that it’s not the most exciting film I’ve seen, but that it has things to say and beats more lauded films to the punch. Part of me believes that if this were directed by Ishiro Honda, we might all regard it very differently.
Ugh, those "50 Sci-fi Movies" sets are such disappointments. Sure, you get all those movies for ten cents apiece, but the quality is so horrendous that they're almost unwatchable. I'm glad you finally tracked down a decent copy of this.
I had a similar thought about how people might respond differently if Honda had directed it. I actually enjoyed seeing a fresh take on Honda-style material, and there were several instances where I liked the way the camera was used. There were an awful lot of shots of people sitting at a telescope, but at least they were filmed from a variety of angles.
I loved that commentary, and the mention of DAY THE EARTH CAUGHT FIRE, which is an amazing movie although obviously is different in a of ways from WARNING FROM SPACE. Also did not think about the transformation sequence as being similar to METROPOLIS, although it wouldn't surprise me if it was an homage.
(I feel confident the makers of SUPERMAN watched this though -- that "spinning ring" prison during the Kryptonian trial looks suspiciously like the one on the Pairan ship.)
Am surprised you didn't mention GORATH (1964) as the plot is quite similar; if you haven't seen it yet you need to! (warning: the English version is notoriously terrible)
Having watched both the dubbed and subbed versions, I'm still convinced we're meant to assume the poor scientist was tied to that chair for several weeks. Yes, I have more trouble with that than the idea of starfish-blanket aliens. 🙂
Forearmed with the information in your review (and expectations adjusted accordingly), I really enjoyed this curiosity of a film. I don’t know if I saw a different cut to the one you watched, but the starfish costumes were shown in all their goofy glory about two minutes in - an expositional scene set on the alien space station (I think that’s what it was), with a group of the aliens discussing the plot to infiltrate human society to issue their warning. I had a few niggling questions through the film that bothered me more than the starfish costumes. Given their level of technology and command of earth languages, why did the aliens need such a convoluted plot to warn earth of the approaching planet? Was it a good idea to be evacuating people underground in the face of an impending interplanetary collision?! And if the alien’s planet was on the opposite side of the sun from Earth, why would the destruction of Earth result in the destruction of their own planet? That said, it was an intriguing watch. Thanks for reviewing it.
I'm glad to hear it! Was the version you watched a dubbed edit? That could explain that scene, which definitely wasn't in the version I watched; or rather, it was, but it appeared later. I can't say I approve the idea to move the reveal of the aliens from the end of Act 1 to the beginning of the film; it takes away all the mystery!
Those are valid questions you bring up, and I had a couple similar ones of my own. We get no answers, of course. :)
@@JeromeWeiselberry You are right, it was a dubbed edit. :-)
After watching this video, I went to Prime and watched the movie. I think it was pretty good despite the silly starfish costumes. It has a pretty good plot, and certainly had high stakes. It was worth the watch.
I'm also going to leave a recommendation to you called Gone With The Light. A Chinese movie about what happens to people left behind when a beam of light causes couples to disappear all over the Earth. The couples were apparently very much in love, so those left behind infer from this that they are not in love causing them to examine their relationships with their spouses and Friends. It is a bit long at 131 minutes and sometimes you feel that length, but ends on a positive note. Keep watching through the credits because that's when the payoff between the main character and his wife is shown.
Well, that was interesting. Watched it earlier today and still thinking about it. It does seem well made and could easily be called Warning From 1956 since what happened there could be in our future. I would hope we could deal with planet killing asteroids in the same way. I liked the use of animals to tell the story, dogs, cats, turtles, and that poor bird. In other end of the world movies I've seen neighing horses and noisy flocks of birds. They always know! Thanks for this J,. I think you'll raise that IMDb rating yet.
I had never heard of Warning from Space until your review, what a strange sounding film, a strange sounding film I now want to see. If I was alien sushi Japan is the last place I’d want to visit lol. The starfish aliens remind me of another starfish alien-Starro czcams.com/video/qr2Lpu4c1Ro/video.html I believe Starro was created in the 60s so must’ve been inspired by Warning from Space. I’m curious to see where Warning from Space goes in the third act, after everything you’ve said it does seem like it was ahead of it’s time. The sound clip where you discussed the similarities between the sounds of the starfish and the percussion from Me and Julio down by the Schoolyard made me laugh so much lol, it was very funny and so oddly accurate. I bet if they had a Star Trek universal translator they’d sound like Patrick from SpongeBob, their look is awesomely silly, they’re like walking starfish wearing grey pyjamas.
~ Thank you Ms Weiselberry ~
AWESOME REVIEW. I MISSED YOU
Great review
Always cool.
Peace on earth.
Well done review
The star people costumes reminds me of Attack of the Gian Leeches. Warning from Space is a much better movie of course. I wonder if "When Worlds Collide" (1951) had an influence on "Warning From Space". The American style song and dance could have been American post war influence, American troops in Japan. Enjoyed your fair and balanced review.
Oh, it's definitely a better movie, ha! Good catch on the costumes. I'm sure the strong American presence in the country gave rise to those dance numbers, which seemed like imitations of what you'd see in an MGM musical at the time. Thanks!
Love your reviews, and you're so beautiful x
im from peru good video :D
Low ratings for these B Sc-Fi movies are deceptive. They can have low ratings but still be liked by a lot of people like for example The Giant Claw, Reptilicus and Invasion of the Saucer Men.
No comparison to Melancholia?
did you see Colossal with Anne Hathaway?
No, I heard about it when it came out, but then I completely forgot about it.
This was just over ten years after ww2...can't imagine the Japanese not making such a movie...
...though the aliens been grossed out by our human noses...that's rough
9:34 Youch! That's mean. There's nothing wrong with the lady's nose.
I think its a fine movie until you realize it was the same year Forbidden Planet came out.
انا احبك كثيرا ،،،❤️❤️❤️🌹🌹🌹
If you like Asimov the foundation and empire series is good, but absolute best sci-fi/ fantasy author is Gene Wolfe. If you look into Wolfe you will find many sci-fi authors are also big fans.
I have not seen this movie but was familiar with it before your review. I did know about the bad starfish costumes and basic plot. I still don't have a great desire to watch it. I have seen The Last War (1961, Toho). It stars Frankie Sakai, from Mothra, and Akira Takarada. It's pretty good, but I don't think it is much like this movie after watching your review. This movie is similar to Gorath, which was directed by Ishiro Honda. There's a link to The Last War on Wikipedia. Don't know if it's a good version to watch. I own a good, maybe bootleg copy of it, which was good quality. If you want to watch dumb Kaiju movies, you still have some Showa era Gamera movies to watch.
Classic entertaining over the top fantasy but creative funny doom society problematic back in the day little possible science fiction survival movie
Japan was absorbing American culture post ww2.
Hey girl, an anagram of your name is Bejewel Eye Mirrors...
Jerome is a male name
It's just a pseudonym: czcams.com/video/_K_WekZMupg/video.html