Watch Invaders from Mars

Invaders from Mars is a 1986 science fiction film directed by Tobe Hooper. The movie stars Karen Black, Hunter Carson, Timothy Bottoms, and James Karen. The movie is a remake of the 1953 film of the same name, with updates to the story and improved special effects. The film’s premise centers around a young boy named David (Hunter Carson) who discovers that aliens have invaded his small hometown. David begins to witness strange events occurring around him, starting with the disappearance of his father. He tells his parents (Karen Black and Timothy Bottoms), but they do not believe him at first. Later, David is horrified to discover that his parents have been possessed by the aliens and are now complicit in their invasion plan.

David finds himself on the run and is aided by a kindly scientist (James Karen) who is investigating the strange occurrences in the town. As the aliens begin to take over the town, David and his scientist ally must race against time to save the town and stop the invasion.

The film has a distinctly 1980s feel to it, with intense lighting and special effects. The aliens themselves are especially menacing, with their glowing eyes and distinctive bulbous heads. The film's suspense and tension build slowly but surely, and the final battle between the humans and the aliens is a thrilling, action-packed climax.

One of the standout elements of Invaders from Mars is its use of sound. The aliens' eerie, otherworldly cries constantly echo throughout the film, ratcheting up the tension and creating a creepy, unsettling atmosphere. The film's score, composed by Christopher Young, also deserves praise for its use of heavy percussion and synthesizers to create a sense of urgency and danger.

One of the film's strengths is its focus on David as the protagonist. The fact that the aliens are initially seen through the eyes of a child brings a unique perspective to the story. Through David's eyes, the viewer sees the alien invasion as thrilling and terrifying in equal measure. The fact that the aliens are able to take over his parents' minds only compounds his sense of fear and isolation. Hunter Carson does an excellent job of portraying the fear and confusion of a child caught up in events beyond his understanding.

Karen Black and Timothy Bottoms are also excellent in their roles as David's parents. As the film progresses, their change in behavior and demeanor is a chilling reminder of the aliens' power to manipulate and control. James Karen is a reliable presence as the helpful scientist who aids David in his quest to stop the invasion.

Overall, Invaders from Mars is an entertaining sci-fi movie that delivers on suspense, action, and scares. While some of the special effects may seem dated by modern standards, the film's strong performances and creative use of sound make it a standout entry in the genre. Fans of Tobe Hooper's other works, such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre and Poltergeist, will find much to enjoy here.