The space movie released in 1996 was “It Came from Outer Space II,” a television film that revisited the alien invasion themes of its predecessor with a new narrative set in a small desert town.
Overview of “It Came from Outer Space II”
“It Came from Outer Space II” debuted as a made-for-TV movie in 1996, directed by Roger Duchowny. The film is directly tied to Ray Bradbury’s original concept from the 1953 cult classic “It Came from Outer Space.” However, unlike its forerunner, this 1996 installment functions as a remake rather than a true sequel, featuring a new cast and storyline while retaining the eerie, small-town sci-fi atmosphere.
Plot Synopsis
The story unfolds when a group of aliens crash lands near a small desert town, scattering several odd bluish-glowing rocks throughout the region. As temperatures rise, water starts disappearing, and power outages become frequent, locals begin to act strangely, indicating an extraterrestrial influence. The protagonist, formerly local Jack Putnam, witnesses the alien arrival and quickly identifies that something is amiss. As the townspeople exhibit odd behavior and the environmental changes escalate, Putnam seeks to uncover the truth behind these unsettling events.
True to Bradbury’s tradition, the film focuses less on overt action and more on the psychological impact and suspense generated by alien infiltration. The story explores themes of trust, paranoia, and humanity’s confrontation with the unknown—hallmarks of classic science fiction. The aliens’ ability to mimic and replace people with emotionless facsimiles heightens the tension, while the protagonist works to find peaceful resolution amid mounting community hysteria.
Cast and Crew
“It Came from Outer Space II” features Brian Kerwin, Elizabeth Peña, Jonathan Carrasco, and others in major roles. The screenplay was written by Jim and Ken Wheat, based on the works of Ray Bradbury and Harry Essex. This installment was the final directing project for Roger Duchowny.
Reception and Legacy
While the original “It Came from Outer Space” is remembered as a sober, thought-provoking piece in sci-fi history, the 1996 remake did not achieve similar acclaim. Critics described the production values as modest, with little to offer in terms of new thrills or strong characterization. Reviews noted that the remake failed to capture the gripping restraint of Bradbury’s source material or evolve the story meaningfully for a 1990s audience.
Other Space Movies in 1996
1996 saw several other sci-fi films, though most weren’t strictly space-themed in the sense of interstellar exploration or alien contact. Key examples include:
- Star Trek: First Contact: A major Hollywood film where the crew of the USS Enterprise fights to preserve humanity’s future from the Borg, with space travel and alien elements.
- Space Truckers: A comedic adventure about haulers crossing the galaxy and running into trouble with space pirates.
- Space Jam: A cultural phenomenon mixing Looney Tunes characters with Michael Jordan, though not a sci-fi space story in the traditional sense.
Context in Sci-Fi Cinema
The mid-1990s marked a wave of renewed interest in science fiction cinema, particularly after the success of blockbuster “Independence Day” (1996). However, “It Came from Outer Space II” stands apart as a modest, nostalgic return to the roots of American sci-fi horror, blending small-town paranoia with close encounters. Unlike most of its contemporaries, this film chose a subdued, psychological approach over spectacular effects or action.
Conclusion
In Summary, the principal space-themed movie to hit screens in 1996 was “It Came from Outer Space II,” a television film reimagining the 1953 alien classic within a new era. Despite its lackluster reception, the film is notable for drawing on Ray Bradbury’s timeless fascination with otherworldly visitation and the resulting tension within isolated communities. For fans of vintage sci-fi and nostalgic horror, it captures a unique corner of 1996’s cinematic landscape.
