Watch The Monitors

The Monitors is a sci-fi comedy film that was released in 1969. Directed by Jack Shea, the movie follows the story of a group of aliens who come to Earth to establish a peaceful global society. They do this by taking over all forms of media, including television and radio, and broadcasting their message of hope and unity to the masses. However, not everyone is happy about this new world order, and a group of rebels sets out to overthrow the alien overlords.

The movie starts with a scene that sets the tone for the rest of the film. A group of aliens land on Earth, dressed in bright, colorful outfits that look like they were made for a stage production. They announce that they have come to bring peace and harmony to the world and quickly set about taking over every form of media. Their message is simple and straightforward: Humanity has grown tired of war and conflict, and it's time for a change.

The aliens are led by a sympathetic and wise leader named "The Monitor" (played by Guy Stockwell). He is kind and patient with the humans, always trying to find a peaceful solution to their problems. His second-in-command is named "The Technician" (played by Susan Oliver), a beautiful and intelligent woman who is tasked with handling the technical aspects of the alien takeover.

Despite their well-meaning efforts, the aliens face resistance from a group of rebels who call themselves "The Awakened." Led by a charismatic leader named "Gail" (played by Shepperd Strudwick), The Awakened think the aliens are a threat to their way of life and freedom. They quickly set out to sabotage the alien broadcast and incite a revolution.

Along the way, we meet a cast of quirky characters, including Larry Storch as "Murnau," a television executive who becomes an unwitting pawn in the alien's plans, and Avery Schreiber as "The Accountant," a hapless accountant who gets caught up in the rebel's plans.

The Monitors is a unique movie that mixes science fiction with social commentary and humor. The film's message is one of hope and unity, but it's delivered in a light-hearted way that makes it enjoyable and fun to watch. The special effects are clearly dated, but they add to the charm of the film rather than detract from it. The costumes and sets are colorful and imaginative, and the acting is top-notch, especially from Guy Stockwell and Susan Oliver.

One of the things that set The Monitors apart from other sci-fi films of the era was its focus on social issues. The film was made in the midst of the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement, and it reflects the political and cultural climate of the time. The aliens represent a broader, more inclusive society that is free of the prejudices and discrimination that were prevalent in the 1960s. They advocate for unity and cooperation and challenge the notion that war and conflict are inevitable.

Overall, The Monitors is a delightful and charming film that is well worth watching. It's a reminder that science fiction can be more than just a space adventure or a cautionary tale; it can also be a vehicle for social commentary and a call to action. The movie's message of hope and unity is as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago, and it's a message we could all use more of in our lives.