Despite its title, Red Planet Mars takes place on terra firma, sans space ships, cosmic rays or space cadets. It is a fantastic concoction [from a play by John L. Balderston and John Hoare] delving into the realms of science, politics, religion, world affairs and Communism.
Pic’s main theme deals with a scientist (Peter Graves) who has managed to achieve radio contact with Mars. Messages from the planet cause all sorts of havoc on earth. The Martians, it appears, have prolonged the life span to 300 years and use cosmic power for energy. As a result of this news and the contact with Mars, mere earth dwellers fear that these secrets will soon be forwarded to earth and will change the entire economic structure of the globe.
Despite the hokum dished out, the actors concerned turn in creditable performances.
