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Saturday, January 21, 2012

Sci Fi Sunday on THIS!

I've probably started too many of these blog entries extolling the greatness of THIS TV. It's hard not to because you can always find cool action flicks, horror classics, B-westerns and cult TV shows ("Outer Limits") on this channel.

I'm a little disappointed that it doesn't air the revived "Elvira's Movie Macabre" show any more, but B-movie beggars can't be choosers.

On Sunday (Jan. 22), THIS features two classic 1950s era sci-fi features: "This Island Earth" (2 p.m.) and "Tarantula." (4 p.m.).



Based on Raymond F. Jones novel of the same name, "This Island Earth" is a great looking movie. The plot is a little hazy at times. It focuses on big-headed aliens from Metaluna, who are under siege by another alien race. Under the leadership of top noggin Exeter (Jeff Morrow), the Metalunans seek aid from the Earth's top scientists including square-jawed Cal Meacham (Rex Reason) and Ruth Adams (Faith Domergue). It's a pretty forgettable film, but its monsters, the Metlunan Mutants, left an impression on many sci-fi fans (and inspired Halloween costumes). It also was the featured flick in "Mystery Science Theater 3000: The Movie."



I clearly recall watching "Tarantula" as a kid. Loved it. I recall freaking out when the lead scientist played by Leo G. Carroll became disfigured. As you can guess, the plot is centered on a giant tarantula terrorizing a desert town. The special effects use a real spider, which looks great in black and white.

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