(1) 1953 Campaign Book Review
A sensational color spectacle which figuratively sent local spectators out of this world made its screen bow yesterday when Twentieth Century-Fox's "Invaders From Mars" opened. An Edward L. Alperson production, "Invaders From Mars" is a well-made science-fiction drama starring Helena Carter, Arthur Franz and the youngster, Jimmy Hunt. Local audiences, judging by their excited applause, had the thrill of their lives.

With emphasis on spine-chilling episodes, the story relates the discovery of a strange spaceship whose eight-foot giant occupants have come to destroy the earth. While it wouldn't be fair to reveal the entire plot, it can be said that the crisis of the gripping drama is brought about in the contamination of U.S. citizens by the invading Martians. The destruction of the spaceship and its inhabitants, who are a terrible threat to all mankind, is finally accomplished by the U.S. Army.

In addition to other-worldly thrills, "Invaders From Mars" carries a warm and human romance between its principals Helena Carter and Arthur Franz. Both of them render imaginative and highly moving performances. Jimmy Hunt is equally effective as a pint-sized astronomer who is the first to discover the Martians.

Sparking "Invaders From Mars" are weird and electrifying special effects. Many of them figure in subterranean battle scenes and space flights. Shown for the first time are strange and fantastically powerful weapons, the Gargantuan Martians, and their leader, a macabre creature encased in a glass globe.

In addition to the principals, "Invaders From Mars" offers a carefully selected cast of supporting players. They include Leif Erickson, Hillary Brooke, Morris Ankrum, and Max Wagner. William Cameron Menzies directed, Richard Blake wrote the screenplay and Edward L. Alperson, Jr., served as associate producer for "Invaders From Mars."

(1) 1953 Newspaper article about Jimmy Hunt
At the age of 14 years, young thespian Jimmy Hunt prefers character parts in films and doesn't intend ever to play "any of that mushy love stuff." The young actor currently is starring with Helena Carter and Arthur Franz in "Invaders From Mars" at local Theaters.

The new Twentieth Century-Fox color spectacle depicts the invasion of Earth by terrifying monsters from the war planet Mars.

Jimmy hopes to become a great western star eventually, but isn't going to allow acting to interfere with his education. Although a bit premature, he intends to matriculate as an engineer. He isn't quite sure right now whether he will major in electrical, mining or civil engineering.

He is not impressed by his success in films or the raves he has been getting for his performances, especially for his taxing role in "Invaders From Mars." He tells anyone who will listen that he is working in Hollywood only to get enough money for a college education.

Jimmy was six years old and attending grammar school in Culver City when a studio talent scout visited the school, looking for a little boy with freckles to play an important screen role. Jimmy's famous freckles got him the job, abetted by his equally famous grin.

He went from one picture to another, and was on his way to film stardom almost before he knew what was happening to him. He has made 38 pictures during his six years since he began.

"Invaders From Mars" is a milestone for young Jimmy in that it is the first time he has received star billing. This was especially gratifying for him.



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