Four-Star Films : ‘The Day the Earth Stood Still’

This anti-nuclear war, science-fiction parable is something of a minor legend, beloved by ‘50s buffs and cinephiles. Robert Wise directed what turned out to be one of his best-liked movies and a personal favorite of his. Michael Rennie stars as an alien on a mission to warn earthlings of nuclear peril. Well-written by Edmund North, the 1951 film boasts a Bernard Herrmann score. With Patricia Neal (pictured) and Sam Jaffe (AMC Wednesday at midnight).

Other four-star films airing this week:

The Ruggles of Red Gap / AMC, Monday, 7:30 a.m.

From Here to Eternity / TMC, Tuesday, 7:30 a.m.

Paths of Glory / TMC, Tuesday, 9:45 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.

The Lavender Hill Mob / Bravo, Tuesday, 3:30 p.m.; Wednesday, 9:30 a.m.

The Informer / AMC, Wednesday, 3 a.m.

Hail the Conquering Hero / Disney, Wednesday, 10 p.m.