A movie whose hero does absolutely nothing.

Our Hero is Dr. Cal Meachum, who is recruited by Exeter (Alien) to join other scientists in researching new forms of energy or something. However, Cal decides to escape the nice little house the next day for no apparent reason along with Love Interest (aka Ruth) and Expendable Person. And it's a good thing they did, as the Aliens decide to destroy the nice little house and everyone who was helping them in it just because. Exeter picks up Doctor Cal and Ruth for no good measure, take them to Metalluna for some unexplained reason, turn around and come back home ten minutes later.

Basically, Cal just goes for a ride in a spaceship.

This movie is available on DVD not only as "This Island Earth," but also as "Mystery Science Theater 3000 - The Movie." The second version is vastly superior.

Scene To Watch For: Cal 'saving' Ruth from the Mu-tant.

Best Line: "Back! Back! I order you -- back!"

Things that make you go "Huh?": Not to second guess the Metallunians, but why debate about an invasion of Earth when your home planet is about to blow up in a half hour anyway? Shouldn't you be boarding your colonization ships?

Response From RinkWorks:

I'd love to see this movie *without* the MST3K gang first, so I can make my own silly comments -- but I can't seem to find it anywhere, except as "MST3K: The Movie." Oh well. -- Dave.

The "real" version airs on AMC every so often. -- Sam.