Sci-Fi Pick: The Brother From Another Planet (1984)
If the only reason you’re interested in a sci-fi film this week is because you want to see a lot of weird looking aliens and explosions in space, then I’m sorry that I won’t be of any help. However, if you’re interested in that ever-elusive quality contemplated sci-fi flick with minimal dialogue from the main character and a dash of social commentary, then oh boy, do I have a pick for you!
John Sayles’ 1984 cult classic The Brother From Another Planet focuses on an alien who plops down to Earth and decides to hide in Harlem. He’s able to fit in quite well in Harlem because contrary to images you may have of 6-eyed 3,000 pound creatures, this visitor looks like your everyday black man (assuming of course that he keeps his socks on).
I call this “contemplative” because for a good chunk of the movie, there isn’t any sort of crazy action, and the majority of the entertainment is made up from watching the Brother listen to people. However, that doesn’t mean this one is only for the hardcore thinkers out there. There’s also a pair of crazy creature-like men in black who are hunting this ET down. Their motivations are never made quite clear, but they sure don’t want him to move about freely, so they set out to nab him as any suited agents do: with bird-like squawks.
The Brother From Another Planet should work for just about everyone (who loves the genre). It’s not too hard of sci-fi, but it’s also not a mindless flick. Plus, from what I’ve seen, an alarming amount of people have somehow overlooked this movie. So, if you’re seeking a tale about an alien trying to get back home, skip ET and The Man Who Fell To Earth – just turn on that instant watch and enjoy.
That’s it for today, but be sure to tune in next week though for another edition of We Got Netflix Covered! Also, be sure to leave a comment and let us know if you enjoyed any of these picks.