The Day the Earth Stood Still

The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008)

About The Day the Earth Stood Still

The Day the Earth Stood Still (2008) is a thrilling science fiction drama, originally a remake of the 1951 movie with the same title. The plot starts when a bright light and a ominous sphere land in New York City's Central Park. This incredible event is followed by the arrival of an alien visitor named Klaatu (Keanu Reeves). With the aid of Dr. Helen Benson (Jennifer Connolly) and her stepson Jacob (Jaden Smith), Klaatu has a mission to save the Earth.

Making / Production

Directed by Scott Derrickson and written by David Scarpa, the production of the movie combined visually captivating special effects with a nod to the original movie's message about the impacts of human behavior on our planet.

Actors

• Keanu Reeves as Klaatu: Reeves played the role of Klaatu with an intimidating and emotionless demeanor which was effective in portraying an alien's perspective on humanity.
• Jennifer Connolly as Dr. Helen Benson: Connolly convincingly portrayed a scientist trying to balance her maternal instincts with her scientific curiosity.
• Jaden Smith as Jacob Benson: Smith's character was challenged with a young boy's understanding of the extraordinary situations happening around him, which he played convincingly.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The music during the opening credits is also played in the original 1951 version of the movie.
• Second major feature film for Jaden Smith, son of actors Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith.
• The sphere seen in the film was inspired by the 2001: A Space Odyssey's monolith.

Quotes

• "You should let me go." - Klaatu
• "We could have helped you, you could have stayed here with us!" - Dr. Helen Benson
• "If the earth dies, you die. If you die, the earth survives." - Klaatu

Music, Soundtrack

• "The Day the Earth Stood Still" - Score by Tyler Bates