The Navy vs. the Night Monsters/Women of the Prehistoric Planet (1966) in the PNW

Details: Written by: Mortado; Category: The 1960s in Northwest Cinemas

This is a collection of media from the initial runs of "The Navy vs. the Night Monsters" (1966) and "Women of the Prehistoric Planet" (1966) in the Pacific Northwest.

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The Navy vs. the Night Monsters (1966)
"The Navy vs. the Night Monsters" is a science fiction horror film directed by Michael A. Hoey. It plunges viewers into a gripping tale of terror and survival on a remote island in the South Pacific, where a group of naval personnel stationed at a weather station face an unprecedented threat.

The narrative begins with a cargo plane returning from an expedition to Antarctica, carrying specimens of prehistoric trees. However, these seemingly innocuous plants hold a deadly secret—they can transform into bloodthirsty, nightmarish creatures that attack and devour anything in their path. As night falls, the trees metamorphose, unleashing chaos and terror on the unsuspecting island inhabitants.

The crew, led by Commander Charles Brown, played by Anthony Eisley, and Lt. Nora Hall, portrayed by Mamie Van Doren, must band together to fend off the monstrous plants. The film captures their struggle for survival as they face a relentless and otherworldly enemy. Tensions rise as they devise a plan to destroy the creatures before they overrun the island.

Directors: Michael A. Hoey, Jon Hall, Arthur C. Pierce
Writers: Michael A. Hoey, Murray Leinster, Arthur C. Pierce
Stars: Mamie Van Doren, Anthony Eisley, Billy Gray
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Women of the Prehistoric Planet (1966)
"Women of the Prehistoric Planet" is a science fiction adventure directed by Arthur C. Pierce that combines interstellar travel with prehistoric survival. The story begins with a spaceship carrying a group of scientists, crew members, and colonists on a journey to a distant star system. During their voyage, an unexpected accident causes them to crash-land on an uncharted, primitive planet.

Among the survivors is Linda, played by Irene Tsu, an officer of mixed heritage, who finds herself navigating the harsh landscape alongside her crewmates. As they explore the planet, they encounter various prehistoric creatures and face the elements in their struggle for survival. The film highlights their efforts to repair their ship and contact their home base while fending off environmental threats and native wildlife.

Complicating their situation are the planet's indigenous humanoid inhabitants, who view the newcomers with suspicion and hostility. The dynamic between the technologically advanced survivors and the primitive society they encounter forms a central theme of the film, raising questions about civilization, progress, and the clash of cultures.

Director: Arthur C. Pierce
Writer: Arthur C. Pierce
Stars: Wendell Corey, Keith Larsen, John Agar

September 6, 1966 ad (Portland)