Film: 
(2.5/5) (3.5/5)
Here we have a British B-movie that makes a low cost sci-fi elaboration on David Lean’s “The Sound Barrier” (1952). Set in an American Station in Mexico, it tells the story of rebellious test pilot, Dan Prescott, who wants to be the first man in space. The sci-fi part is obsolete and does not hold even as cult prop. Better are the characters studies, with Turin model-turned-actress Marla Landi playing a convincing Italian in an unconvincing context. Marshall Thompson is Commander Charles Prescott: a stiff head with a golden heart, divided between duty and sentimental sacrifice. Bill Edwards, on the other hand, is monotone and as the undisciplined Milton. Finally, Robert Ayers stands out as the devilish Captain Ben Richards. The film’s cinematography, editing, special effects and monstrous creature is not worthy of mention.
The film’s extras are better than the film itself, with a good ‘making of’, a clean print, as well as in depth interviews with the director and actress Landi.
First Man into Space, (UK 1959) dir. Robert Day, with Marshall Thompson, Marla Landi, Robert Ayers. Bill Edwards
Disc Features
- New, restored high-definition digital transfer
- Audio commentary by producer Richard Gordon and writer Tom Weaver
- New video interviews with director Robert Day and costar Marla Landi
- Original theatrical trailers and radio spots
- Stills galleries featuring production and publicity photographs
- Optional English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing
- PLUS: A booklet featuring new essays by Bruce Eder and Michael Lennick
Popularity: 7% [?]
