Is That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1975)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

Debuting in 1975, That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer represents a sophisticated intersection of artistic ambition and genre-defining elements within the Documentary, Animation, Science Fiction category. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into UFOs and aliens from beyond the stars are common themes in media, entertainment, and other forms of science fiction; however, many individuals have sworn they have seen UFOs and have been abducted in real life! Sit back and watch as the makers of Mazinger take you on a journey through the history of UFO lore. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Documentary, Animation, Science Fiction are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "UFOs and aliens from beyond the stars are common themes in media, entertainment, and other forms of science fiction; however, many individuals have sworn they have seen UFOs and have been abducted in real life! Sit back and watch as the makers of Mazinger take you on a journey through the history of UFO lore. Could it be that UFOs are real and that aliens watch us from afar? In the end, only you can be the judge. This was used for promotion of the then upcoming animated film, "Battlefield of the Space Saucers"."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. The ensemble, led by Keaton Yamada, delivers a professional and engaging performance that satisfies the requirements of the Documentary, Animation, Science Fiction genre. While it may not reinvent the wheel, the commitment to the material is evident in every frame.

The direction by Kazukiyo Shigeno is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 16 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Documentary, Animation, Science Fiction, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 5.2/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1975 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Kazukiyo Shigeno respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Keaton Yamada or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, That's a UFO! The Flying Saucer is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.