Can of Worms (1999)

Can of Worms Poster

A teen is visited by aliens after he broadcasts a message into space.

Introduction
"Can of Worms" is a made-for-television sci-fi comedy film launched in 1999 on Disney Channel. It was directed by Paul Schneider while its screenplay was adjusted by Kathy Mackel from her own book. The film stars Michael Shulman, Erika Christensen, and Adam Wylie.

Property
The film's plot centers around Mike Pillsbury (Michael Shulman), a teenager who feels out of location on the planet and believes he must be from another planet. After a particularly bad day at school and in the house, throughout a thunderstorm, Mike sends out a message out into area, asking extraterrestrial beings to come and take him away. The message is heard, and many aliens from various parts of the universe start to appear at Mike's home.

Plot Summary
Throughout a football video game, Mike, a very imaginative young boy, gets torn down and when awakened, claims that aliens have taken over the bodies of his employee. He also has a frustrating time at home with his intrusive sis and unsupportive parents. Later that very same night, throughout a storm, Mike vents his disappointments by broadcasting a message into the universes, wishing aliens would pertain to Earth and take him away.

His transmission is heard by different alien species in different parts of the universe. The first to show up is the TV-style sales-ship, driven by an alien, Thoad (voiced by Malcolm McDowell). He's a demon-like animal who attempts to catch Mike thinking him to be a "missing link" types worth a great deal of stellar credits.

Meanwhile, 2 other aliens, Barnabus and the Galactic Patrol (voiced by Sam McMurray and C. Ernst Harth) show up to safeguard Mike. They try to describe to him that Thoad is an infamous fugitive hunter and Mike is in excellent threat. However, given that these aliens are typically more comic than scary, Mike does not quite believe them.

More amusing aliens get here including the dog-like Bom (voiced by Chris Elliott) and the telepathic twin extraterrestrial ladies, Lula and Juna. All the aliens, regardless of their conflicting motivations, promise Mike a method off Earth.

Climax and Resolution
The chase towards the climax of the film begins when Mike, attempting to deal with Thoad, tells him that he is the one who sent the message out into area. Understanding Mike's potential bounty, Thoad right away tries to record him.

In some way, Mike leaves and helps another alien, who was also recorded by Thoad. They both return to Earth safely. Mike finally confesses, in a heartfelt discussion with his pal Katelyn (Erika Christensen), that his creativity may have got the best of him and that possibly he does fit here in the world. He starts to understand that feeling various does not necessarily imply you belong elsewhere. As the movie concludes, Mike guarantees the aliens that he will never reveal their existence to anyone.

Conclusion
"Can of Worms" leverages on the timeless 'coming of age' theme, worn an amusing and otherworldly sci-fi setting. The movie incorporates many amusing yet charming alien characters that keep the audience fascinated. Though it is primarily a funny, it touches crucial elements about identity, belonging, and accepting one's individuality. The entire story is conveyed in a rejuvenating and light-hearted manner, ideal for an audience of any ages.

Top Cast

  • Michael Shulman (small)
    Michael Shulman
    Mike Pilsbury
  • Erika Christensen (small)
    Erika Christensen
    Katelyn
  • Adam Wylie (small)
    Adam Wylie
    Nick
  • Andrew Ducote
    Jay
  • Lee Garlington (small)
    Lee Garlington
    Dana Pillsbury
  • Brighton Hertford (small)
    Brighton Hertford
    Jill Pillsbury
  • Marcus Turner
    Scott
  • Malcolm McDowell (small)
    Malcolm McDowell
    Barnabus (voice)
  • Chris Davies
    Ryan
  • Marie Stillin (small)
    Marie Stillin
    Mrs. Nickerson
  • Jessica Murdoch
    Katelyn’s Friend