Morons from Outer Space

"Morons from Outer Space" is a 1985 British comedy science fiction movie directed by Mike Hodges. With an engaging lineup of Mel Smith, Griff Rhys Jones, Joanne Pearce on its cast, the film is a timeless satirical take on human fascination with extraterrestrial life and our reaction to the unfamiliar.

The plot pivots around the lives of three average humanoid aliens – Bernard, Sandra, and Desmond, and their journey when they crash land on Earth. They originate from the planet Blob, where, surprisingly, they are considered as morons. After overthrowing an intelligent member of their team out of the spaceship, their lack of technical knowledge leads to an unfortunate crash landing on Earth. The story unwinds as the "morons" experience Earth and its inhabitants for the first time. Simultaneously, their former crew member, Gilbert – the so-called reject, also lands on our planet, but his journey shapes up to be starkly contrasting with his former peers.

Mel Smith plays Bernard, the lead character among the extraterrestrial visitors. A rather odd, unwitty and sluggish being, Bernard arguably embodies the title of the film, representing the brand of comedy the film aspires to present. Griff Rhys Jones portrays the character of Gilbert, providing a solid counterpoint to Smith's Bernard. His role is further enhanced by the striking contrast that Gilbert’s journey on Earth offers as compared to his ‘moronic’ counterparts. Meanwhile, Joanne Pearce shines as Sandra, a fun-loving alien integrating into the human society while her adventures often leading herself and others into humorous and bizarre situations.

In its essence, "Morons from Outer Space" is a social satire that ingeniously uses the concept of alien visitors to mock and comment on human society’s fascination with the 'other' and our often naive, over-the-top reactions towards what is alien to us. Our media's sensationalistic tendencies, quick-to-judge natures, and the outrageous extents that society may go to make a profit are all exposed in humorous and often blatant manners. Deeper underneath its comical façade, the film also provokes thoughtful discussions about cultural dislocation, exploitation, and the absurdity of sudden stardom.

The film subtly ridicules the typical imagery of intelligent and superior aliens visiting Earth. Instead, it poses an interesting proposition – what if these visiting aliens are just as imperfect, dull, and average as humans? Consequently, this reversal of roles helps the film present its jokes and gags more effectively, giving birth to numerous moments of hilarity and absurdity.

The direction by Mike Hodges is on par with the demands of such an unconventional storyline. His ability to maintain a fast pacing, ensuring that no scene drags out for too long, is commendable. At the same time, the script by Griff Rhys Jones and Mel Smith stands out for its originality and its mix of nuanced and slapstick humor.

Regarding performances, Mel Smith, as Bernard, steals the show with his endearing silliness and comic timing. Griff Rhys Jones's portrayal of Gilbert offers an interesting counterbalance, and his performance brings forward the subtle humor and satire hidden within his character's plight. Joanne Pearce, as Sandra, is delightful and adds energy to the film.

The film's production design does an impressive job of realistically presenting a fictional space-making the audience believe its authenticity. The special effects, although limited due to the time of the movie's creation, are cleverly used and add a distinct charm to the feature. Cinematography, too, adds to the narrative, using a variety of techniques to highlight the oddities presented in the film.

Overall, "Morons from Outer Space" is a light-hearted and humorous flick, backed by witty writing and credible performances. It’s a movie that leans into its silliness, mocking both the visitors from outer space and the Earthly inhabitants in an endearing and original way. The eccentric premise, lovable characters, and frequents bursts of laughter make it a well-loved classic in the genre of comic science fiction.