Message from Space

Clearly inspired by the Star Wars saga, this Japanese sci-fi thriller charts the conflict between the peace-loving natives of the planet Jillucia and the attacking Gavanas. In response to the threat, eight warriors are chosen to defend the planet. Among the film's whimsical visual effects is Jillucian Princess Esmeralida's (Etsuko Shihomi) spacecraft, designed to resemble a 19th-century sailing vessel, which she uses to round up the eight heroes.