Battlefield Earth

About This Movie

Battlefield Earth is one of those films that really leaves an impression, though maybe not the one it aimed for. Directed by Roger Christian, it's set in a bleak future where aliens called Psychlos dominate Earth. The atmosphere is heavy, with an almost relentless sense of despair. John Travolta’s performance as Terl is… well, it’s something. He really leans into the over-the-top villain role, and you can’t help but watch. The practical effects have their charm, though they don’t always hold up. The pacing is uneven, kind of meandering at times but has bursts of action that can be entertaining in a strange way. It’s definitely distinctive in its ambition, even if it stumbles quite a bit along the way.

Released on DVD in 2001, Blu-ray in 2010.Filmed using the 'Dutch angle' technique extensively.Based on L. Ron Hubbard's novel.John Travolta also served as producer.