Forbidden Planet (1956)★ 7.2/10

While many elements now feel dated—from the production design to the visual effects—there’s still a compelling core to the story. The alien menace turns out to be a projection of human fear and prejudices, which gives the film a layer of psychological depth that transcends its era.

More than six decades later, it’s easy to feel frustrated by the film’s crude effects and sluggish pace. Its influence on the sci-fi genre may be significant, yet that doesn’t necessarily make it enjoyable today.