The Aurora Encounter

The Aurora Encounter is a 1986 American science-fiction western film that takes viewers on a fantastical journey blending elements of the old west with extraterrestrial adventures. It was directed by the notable Jim McCullough Sr., and co-written by Melody Brooke and Jim McCullough Jr. This movie stars a diverse cast, including Jack Elam, Peter Brown, Carol Bagdasarian, and famed Texas actor Dottie West. More importantly, it is also celebrated for featuring the last silver-screen performance of the legendary Hollywood actor George "Spanky" McFarland of "Our Gang" Fame. But perhaps most notably, the film is lauded for casting a real-life alien in the lead role, Christopher Cox, who had an unusual and heart-touching personal story.

The story of The Aurora Encounter unfolds in the late 19th-century town of Aurora, Texas, a society deeply rooted in the mores and customs of American Wild West era. Known for its lawlessness, and filled with characters typically found in westerns such as gun-packing Marshalls and rowdy saloon-goers, the town of Aurora is about to experience an unprecedented event that will shake its very foundations.

One day, the quiet routine of this western town gets abruptly disrupted when an extraterrestrial spaceship crash lands. Now, this spinning tale of the wild west setting no longer revolves exclusively around human protagonists but includes a friendly alien as well, triggering a series of humorous and often heartwarming interactions that highlight our shared humanity despite the differences in appearance.

However, the fantastical element of a friendly alien visiting an old western town is not merely fictional but delves into the pages of actual American history. The Aurora Encounter borrows its premise from a famous Texas folklore concerning an allegedly real UFO crash that took place in 1897. The crash was followed by reports of a dead extraterrestrial pilot, who was given a Christian burial in the local cemetery. By cleverly incorporating this folklore into its narrative, the film evolves into a blend of science fiction and Texas history, making it even more appealing for science fiction and history enthusiasts alike.

The film gracefully explores the light-hearted and amusing aspect of the interactions between the residents of Aurora and the alien. However, it doesn't shy away from addressing some deeper themes too. Central to this is the unusual bond that forms between the alien and a young, terminally ill boy named Charlie. The relationship between Charlie, portrayed by Christopher Cox, a real-life Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) patient, and the extraterrestrial being serves as a beautiful narrative element that is both touching and insightful. The Aurora Encounter uses this unique friendship to subtly underline the themes of acceptance, compassion, and understanding, thereby transcending the usual confines of a simple sci-fi western.

The movie is further enhanced by the performances delivered by the cast. Jack Elam, renowned for his work in westerns, shines in his role as the town's sheriff, bringing in both toughness and warmth required for his character. Peter Brown, another familiar face in the genre, complements him well as the stern yet just town judge. Carol Bagdasarian brings female strength to the primarily male-dominated film while Dottie West adds a touch of southern charm in her role.

The iconic George "Spanky" McFarland plays a pivotal role in the film and adds a layer of nostalgia to it. His performance, particularly in his interactions with the alien, leaves a lasting impression. But it's the performance of Christopher Cox that truly stands out. The courage and resilience displayed by Cox in real life are mirrored brilliantly in his on-screen character, Charlie, infusing authenticity and raw emotion into the film.

The Aurora Encounter, with its unique blend of comedy, science-fiction, and western genres, provides an entertaining and at times emotional viewing experience. The film's seamless amalgamation of folklore and fiction, bolstered by memorable performances, leaves a lasting impression. From the depth of its characters to the alien's grandeur, this movie offers an enriching insight into human relations while also being a captivating tale about an alien's visit. Whether you're a fan of science fiction, westerns, or looking for a heartwarming journey filled with humor, joy, and a dash of wonders from the beyond, The Aurora Encounter is a cinematic treat well worth exploring.