One of those rare science fiction films that presents the not-too-distant future realistically through an involving
adventure story, this update of the Defoe classic places a stranded astronaut in solitary peril until he meets "Friday," an alien slave. They form a
bond that allows each to survive the harsh Martian landscape. Technology and special effects are integral to the story, and the script (Ib Melchoir
and John Higgins), direction (Byron Haskin), and excellent performances (Paul Mantee and Vic Lundin) all serve to make Robinson Crusoe on Mars a
science fiction classic. Criterion's special edition includes:
- A new widescreen transfer in the original aspect ratio of 2.35:1
- Audio commentary by screenwriter Ib Melchoir, actors Paul Mantee and Vic Lundin,
production designer Al Nozaki, plus noted special effects designer Robert Skotak
- Excerpts from a rare interview with director Byron Haskin
- Excerpts from Ib Melchior's original, illustrated screenplay for the film
- Production design sketch book
- Robert Skotak's article on the history and
making of the film
- The original roadshow trailer
- Publicity artwork and press book
In Depth |
Index of Films
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USA science fiction
1964
color 110 min.
