Fair but dull late '50s color Russian-made, English-subtitled sci-fi. Has a fair amount of typical for the era pro-Russian propaganda and derisive depiction of the American way of life. Russian scientists and cosmonauts plan a trip to Mars but in the meantime rescue and aid a pair of US astronauts. When the Americans learn of the Russian plan, (it's no secret) they are ordered by their superiors to head to the Red Planet first, even though they're ill-prepared. Of course the Russians have to save the astronauts bacon yet again and end up on one of Mars's satellites. The Mars plan is kaput and now everyone has to figure out a way to return to Earth. Some nice visuals and the Mars rise effect as seen from the satellite is impressive. The slog through the story is dull though. Not much exciting action here. Roger Corman got his mitts on this film and added dubbing and some added scenes, including a pair of rather grody monsters, and named it Battle Beyond the Sun. Catch that if you can. The quality of this, the Video Dimensions DVD of The Sky Calls is very good. The color is great and the picture is clear. Recommended for fans of un-embellished Russian imports.
Review of Battle Beyond the Sun
