Invasion of the Body Snatchers ranks among the greatest science-fiction films in motion-picture history. The film describes how mysterious seed pods from outer space take over the bodies of residents of a small California town, draining them of all emotion and taking over their minds. The film was released in 1956. It was based on the novel The Body Snatchers (1955) by the American science-fiction writer Jack Finney.
The film was directed by Don Siegel, who made his reputation in Hollywood as a director of action movies. However, Invasion of the Body Snatchers became known for its subtle and intelligent treatment of the story. The film grows in suspense as one character after another is taken over by the unseen aliens. The movie was shot in black and white, and its small-town American setting gave it added realism. Critics still call Invasion of the Body Snatchers one of the most frightening of all science-fiction films.
The film starred Kevin McCarthy as a doctor who recognizes the threat from the seed pods, but his warnings are disregarded. Dana Wynter co-starred as the doctor’s former sweetheart. The film received little attention when it was released because of its low budget and lack of major stars. Critics have since acclaimed it a masterpiece.
Critics have interpreted the film in different ways. Some claim that the aliens symbolized the soul-destroying power of Communism, a subject that preoccupied many Americans in the 1950’s. Other critics stated that the film was an attack on McCarthyism—the widespread fear of Communism and suspicion of Communist activities. Siegel said that his film was stating that the “majority of people, unfortunately, are pods, existing without any intellectual aspirations and incapable of love.” He implied that most people lack the will to fight any popular movement, no matter how evil. The film has been remade several times.
