Destination Moon

Author: Hergé

Robert A. Heinlein is one of the most important voices in the history of science fiction. In Destination Moon, you can see his fingerprints over the entire film, from the plot to the broad characters. RAH took a pass at the screenplay, and served as the technical advisor, so you can see where all that came from, but the Grand Old Man isn't the only legend of the Golden Age of Science Fiction present. In fact, I'd argue that astronomical artist Chesley Bonestal's matte work and design for the lunar surface is just as significant, and Walter Lantz's brief Woody Woodpecker cartoon that explains the methods and dangers of space-flight come very close to equaling Heinlein's markings. The film is noted for being meticulously researched, striving for accuracy in every possible front. There are things that today we know are patently ridiculous, but without 50 years of space travel under their belt, they did OK. The feeling of the film is one of science at a tipping point, and while the acting is far from naturalistic, and some of the characters are down-right flat, the entire film does give off the fresh scent of 1950s American optimism. Why it's on the list A fun film that really represents what 1950s scifi was all about.