Cartoon Aliens Invade Marjorie Post Park

It turns out that space aliens are apparently an acceptable substitute for dragons.

The Town of Oyster Bay concluded its Movies Under Moonlight series on the lawn of Marjorie Post Park in Massapequa this week. Hundreds turned out for the event, even though the feature presentation had to be changed.

"How To Train Your Dragon" was originally slated to be shown, but the film's unexpected success lead to an expanded theatrical run, delaying it's DVD release.

As a result, the Town of Oyster Bay opted for a film already out on DVD: TriStar Pictures' "Planet 51," a computer animated children's movie starring the vocal talents of Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, Jessica Biel, Justin Long, Seann William Scott, Gary Oldman, and John Cleese.

Justin Caldwell of Massapequa Park was disappointed in the change, but made the best of it.

"I saw How To Train Your Dragon three times in the theater. I really loved it," he said. "But I've never seen Planet 51 before. I guess I'll give it a shot."

The film is an amusing romp that plays out like the classic 1982 Steven Spielberg movie "E.T." but in reverse, with an Earth astronaut landing on "Planet 51" only to discover it populated with odd green aliens living in a 1950's-like society.

"Planet 51 is a cute movie," said Deborah Kimmel of Farmingdale. "It's a nice novelty to be able to camp out under the stars and enjoy it with the family. It's like a drive-in, but without the car."

"Planet 51" was the last in a series of diverse films shown in town parks this summer. Outdoor movie lovers also got to see "Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs" and some older classics such as "Rear Window" and "Tootsie."

And what's a movie without popcorn? On-hand were Town of Oyster Bay employees handing out free tubs to moviegoers looking for something  yummy to nosh on while enjoying the picture.

In addition, a crafts table offered kids the chance to paint ceramic tiles with bright, cheerful colors.

Maureen Fitzgerald, Commissioner of Community and Youth Events for the Town of Oyster Bay, was pleased with the turnout at Marjorie Post Park.

"We're so thrilled to end the movie season in Massapequa with such a nice crowd," she said. "We have lots of people here, having a good time in the park. It's very family-oriented."