Although it has now achieved something of a cult following, this "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" look-alike was completely ignored on its first release. Not even "Variety" bothered to review the movie because the editor felt its prospects were so limited, that no theaters would screen the film even if the exchange made them a gift of a free copy. And some exchanges had the further disadvantage of a cut-down copy which removed some essential background and motivation. I rated this version as less than mediocre.
The full version, however, is quite entertaining and whilst the movie doesn't deserve the unstintingly overboard admiration of Maury Dexter's admirers, it's still well worth a look in its original CinemaScope format. Locations are atmospherically utilized, particularly the scenes in Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills.
The full version, however, is quite entertaining and whilst the movie doesn't deserve the unstintingly overboard admiration of Maury Dexter's admirers, it's still well worth a look in its original CinemaScope format. Locations are atmospherically utilized, particularly the scenes in Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills.