The Magnetic Monster

The magnetic monster of the title is not what you might expect from a sci-fi B-movie of the 1950s, an era filled with mutated creatures blown up to gigantic proportions due to radiation. Rather, it's a newly-discovered radioactive element that has taken on a kind of life of its own after being subjected to secret experiments. By the time our heroes, the A-Men (atom scientists) of the Office of Scientific Investigation, track a trail of magnetized metal to the source, it has already started to grow out of control. Co-written and directed by Curt Siodmak (best known as a horror movie screenwriter), 1953's The Magnetic Monster is more cerebral than most sci-fi films of its day and it is structured more like a police procedural. Even though no spectacular monster is on the rampage, there are still clever special effects, as powerful magnetic forces send metal objects flying across rooms to stick on walls and ceilings. Richard Carlson, star of numerous low budget productions and a busy supporting actor in bigger films, is lead scientist Dr. Jeffrey Stewart, who spouts theories with the voice of authority as he searches for and then tries to contain the menace, which begins releasing deadly levels of radiation as it grows at an exponential rate. Ultimately, however, this is a talky and slow film, more interesting as sci-fi curio than it is entertaining. Extras include audio commentary by film historian Derek Botello. A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)