Unidentified Flying Oddball
Astronaut's humorous time-travel adventure to King Arthur's court
About Unidentified Flying Oddball
Released: 1979
Platform: Disney+
Rating: G
Run time: 1h 33m
Cast
Dennis Dugan, Jim Dale, Ron Moody, Kenneth More, John Le Mesurier, Rodney Bewes
About Unidentified Flying Oddball
Unidentified Flying Oddball is a 1979 Disney science fiction comedy film about a modern day NASA astronaut who accidentally travels back in time to the age of King Arthur. Based on Mark Twain's 'A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court,' the film offers a blend of humor, adventure, and timeless literature.
Making / Production
Directed by Russ Mayberry, the film was Disney's first adaptation of Twain's novel. The humorous clash of medieval and modern cultures, combined with the light-hearted tone that Disney is known for, made it a unique entry into the studio's 1979 lineup.
Actors
- Dennis Dugan: Played the role of astronaut Tom Trimble. Dugan effectively portrayed the confusion and awe that a modern man might feel in the antiquated world of King Arthur.
- Jim Dale: Played the double role of Sir Mordred and Sir Sagramore, providing comic relief while maintaining the integrity of the characters.
- Ron Moody: As Merlin, Moody provided a multi-layered performance, being a comic, a villain, and a misunderstood genius all at the same time.
Trivia / Interesting Facts
- The film is also known as 'The Spaceman and King Arthur' and 'A Spaceman in King Arthur's Court' in different regions.
- The scenes set in outer space were shot at Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas – home to NASA's astronaut corps.
- Director Russ Mayberry was known for directing numerous television episodes before he ventured into films.
Awards
The film was not the recipient of any major awards.
Quotes
- "I can't believe it! Going back in time?" - Tom Trimble
- "What manner of man are you that can summon up fire without flint or tinder?" - Merlin
- "I'm an astronaut, Merlin, not a magician!" - Tom Trimble
Music, Soundtrack
- Music scored by Ron Goodwin
- Sound effects were notable for their advanced use for the time, especially in scenes involving '70s technology in the medieval setting.
Note
This content serves as a broad overview of the movie 'Unidentified Flying Oddball' and may leave out some specific details found in the actual film.
About Unidentified Flying Oddball
Unidentified Flying Oddball is a comical adventure of an astronaut accidentally landing in King Arthur's court.