What?!? The Soviets are the good guys? Not used to that in a movie. Most of the movies I’ve seen they are the bad guys or at best not friendly. This movie is different. Aelita Queen of Mars is the first Soviet Union science fiction movie.

There are several story lines in this 2 hour silent film, some of which are a bit confusing. The film was made in 1924 in the former Soviet Union, so I can accept that it can be a bit alien for today’s audience. The movie has positive propaganda for the Communists. There’s a very interesting section at the end of the movie that refers to the October Revolution (October 12, 1917). The movie itself was made only a few years after the formation of the Soviet Union.

For a silent era science fiction film, it’s worth the watch. If you are interested in the early days of the Soviet Union, this is a must. There many scenes showing life during that period. Overall, I enjoyed the film.

I will admit, I did cheat and watched it on fast forward. The actors were a bit over dramatic and took their time getting to the point.
This film was based on the novel Aelita, by A. Tolstoy.

James Steward does an excellent job as the eccentric Dowd, Elwood P. His always present gentle smile and soft spoken manner makes him likeable. Sure he talks to an imaginary 6 foot+ rabbit, but no harm is done. He’s that strange old relative that everyone seems to have, just a bit odd, but so likeable you over look it.
This is a great feel good film. You can’t help feeling good after watching it and even wanting to watch it again. Everyone needs friends like Dowd, Elwood P. and Harvey.

James Stewart was in the stage play of Harvey in London before doing the film. – Special Narrative Introduction March 8, 1990

Coraline is a lonely girl living with her work-aholic parents. They are so busy writing their garden catalog they don’t pay enough attention to her. She finds a door that leads to another world where her “other” family lives. They are everything she wants in parents. They garden, cook and pay attention to her. When she falls asleep, she goes back to the real world with her real parents. Of course, in time the “other” mother has special plans for Coraline.

This movie actually made me think about my own kids and how hectic my and their schedule can be. I think both my kids and I are guilty of not having more time to spend with family. It’s funny; my kids can be just as busy as I can with different activities. So, in the end, the moral of the story is to slow down and enjoy life and family. Ok, kids; let’s go play!