Description
Saucer Movies is the first book to examine the relationship between cinema and the UFO phenomenon. Until now, films with extraterrestrial themes have been treated as a subset of the science-fiction film. They have never before been examined in light of UFO literature and mythology. Saucer Movies takes a new perspective on science- fiction films by separating out works that deal with the wonder and terror of first contact with alien intelligence. More than 300 films are analyzed in terms of their aesthetic merit (direction, acting, screenplay, etc.) and their UFOlogical significance, that is, similarities with actual sightings, thematics, anticipation of UFO events, etc. The films are discussed chronologically and are presented parallel to sentiments about UFOs, from the late 19th century to the present day, from The Astronomer's Dream in 1898 to Contact in 1997. Meehan considers the representations of governmental institutions and individuals in movies such as Close Encounters and Roswell, while also considering the significance of the debate concerning UFO contact, governmental conspiracies, and UFO indoctrination. The work of noted directors receives special attention, and mega-hits share the spotlight with many lesser-known, yet highly significant, UFO films. Illustrations and a complete filmography complete this work.
