Drawing attention to our planet’s environmental crisis, The Day the Earth Stood Still showcases Keanu Reeves as an alien visitor tasked with preventing ecological disaster.

Scott Derrickson helmed this production, penned by David Scarpa, featuring an impressive ensemble cast that includes Jennifer Connelly, John Cleese, Jon Hamm, Kathy Bates and young Jaden Smith.

This modern adaptation reimagines the 1951 classic originally set against Cold War tensions, where an extraterrestrial warned humanity about nuclear weapons and their planetary consequences.

Whilst the 2008 version altered the specific threat, the core message endured – humanity’s destructive impact on Earth’s wellbeing.

As a mysterious celestial body hurtles towards Earth threatening all existence, American scientists scramble to formulate a rescue plan.

Their investigations reveal the object is actually a spacecraft containing Klaatu (Reeves) – an otherworldly being disguised in human form – alongside a mechanical companion.

Astrobiologist Helen Benson, played by Connelly, is assigned to examine Klaatu, who discloses his role as an interplanetary representative.

His assignment: to rescue Earth from ecocide – widespread ecological destruction resulting from sustained environmental harm, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/little-known-keanu-reeves-film-36239598″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>. Drawing from his observations, particularly Helen’s turbulent relationship with her stepson Jacob (Smith), Klaatu determines that humanity is inherently destructive, though he’s later introduced to a Nobel Prize-winning Professor (Cleese) in a bid to alter his viewpoint.

Despite receiving a tepid response from critics when it hit cinemas, the film nonetheless succeeded in generating roughly £177 million globally, establishing it as a considerable box office success.

Enthusiasts on Rotten Tomatoes have championed the film as “brilliant,” arguing its messages remain extraordinarily relevant today.

“I loved this movie,” wrote one admirer. “I think this sheds an important light on situations going on right now and how we really do need to focus more on helping the earth and saving the poor planet.”

Another added, applauding the star power: “Keanu, Jennifer and Jon… just watching them work – what’s not to like? A syfy movie with a heart that we watch as a family while talking about actions and consequences. Was worth our time and we’ve seen it more than once.”

A glowing five-star testimonial from a devotee said: “I loved it brilliant, what a remake of this classic movie.”

Several viewers expressed bewilderment at the critics’ lukewarm reception. One wrote: “No idea why there’s low ratings… all around great movie,” whilst another added: “Better than the dork critics gave it credit for, but a disappointing ending.”

The Day the Earth Stood Still broadcasts on Film 4 at 6.55pm tonight, January 1.

For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website