Write a short essay that covers the questions posed below. Make sure you are taking your time to completely answer the questions and are using the best writing skills. 1. In regards to the final scene, do you think the film means for us to embrace or feel discomfort over ultimatum that Klaatu issues? How does the solution he proposes contradict what might have beens as a film advocating peace and international brotherhood? Would the solution he offers us be toleral workable, desirable? Is his solution hypocritical? 2. "The Day The Earth Stood Still" was one of the very first Holly wood films to include electronic instruments on its soundtrack. How does this film help to define what science fiction films "sound like Why would Bernard Herrman have chosen this particular "sound" for his score? What moments of th film make particularly effective use of music to set the tone for the action?

"The Day The Earth Stood Still," directed by Robert Wise and released in 1951, is a seminal work in the science fiction genre that raises profound questions about humanity, peace, and the consequences of our actions. The film culminates in a final scene where the alien visitor Klaatu issues an ultimatum to humanity: either embrace peace and cooperation or face annihilation. This moment is pivotal, as it forces the audience to grapple with the implications of Klaatu's message. The discomfort that arises from this ultimatum is palpable; it challenges viewers to reflect on the state of the world and the potential consequences of our failure to unite. While Klaatu's solution appears to advocate for peace, it simultaneously contradicts the film's overarching themes of international brotherhood and understanding. By suggesting that humanity must conform to a strict set of rules enforced by a powerful extraterrestrial force, Klaatu's approach undermines the very essence of voluntary cooperation and mutual respect that peace requires. The solution Klaatu proposes raises critical questions about its workability and desirability. On one hand, the idea of a universal peace enforced by an external authority may seem appealing, especially in a world rife with conflict and division. However, such a solution is inherently hypocritical; it suggests that true peace can only be achieved through coercion rather than genuine understanding and collaboration among nations. This perspective not only diminishes the value of human agency but also risks creating a society where fear, rather than goodwill, governs relationships. Ultimately, while Klaatu's ultimatum serves as a wake-up call, it also highlights the complexities and contradictions inherent in the pursuit of peace. In addition to its thematic depth, "The Day The Earth Stood Still" is notable for its innovative use of music, particularly through the score composed by Bernard Herrmann. As one of the first Hollywood films to incorporate electronic instruments, the film's soundtrack plays a crucial role in defining the auditory landscape of science fiction cinema. Herrmann's choice to use unconventional sounds reflects the otherworldly nature of the narrative and enhances the film's exploration of alien themes. The eerie, dissonant tones create a sense of unease and anticipation, effectively mirroring the tension between humanity and the extraterrestrial presence. Several moments in the film exemplify the effective use of music to set the tone for the action. For instance, the opening sequence, accompanied by Herrmann's haunting score, establishes an atmosphere of mystery and foreboding as the spaceship descends to Earth. Similarly, during Klaatu's interactions with humans, the music shifts to underscore the emotional weight of the dialogue, enhancing the viewer's connection to the characters' struggles. The climactic scenes, where the threat of destruction looms large, are punctuated by Herrmann's score, which amplifies the urgency and gravity of the situation. In conclusion, "The Day The Earth Stood Still" serves as a thought-provoking exploration of peace, authority, and the human condition, while also pioneering the soundscape of science fiction cinema. The discomfort elicited by Klaatu's ultimatum invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of achieving global harmony, while Herrmann's innovative score enriches the film's narrative and emotional impact. Together, these elements solidify the film's status as a classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.