Invasion, U.S.A. (1952) | American Cold War-era film directed by Alfred E. Green

"Invasion, U.S.A." is a 1952 American Cold War-era film directed by Alfred E. Green. The film is a drama with elements of political thriller and war propaganda, typical of its time.

The film opens with news reports about a potential invasion of the United States by an unnamed foreign enemy. The narrative then transitions to the bustling city of New York, where people go about their daily lives, unaware of the imminent threat.

The central character is Vince Potter (played by Gerald Mohr), a former war correspondent and current radio broadcaster. Vince is visited by a mysterious man named Mr. Ohman (played by Dan O'Herlihy), who reveals that enemy forces are planning a full-scale invasion of the United States. The invaders are depicted as a coalition of communist nations, capitalizing on the Cold War fears prevalent during the early 1950s.

Vince becomes determined to warn the American public and rally them against the impending invasion. He uses his radio show to convey the urgency of the situation, urging citizens to be vigilant and prepare for the enemy attack. The film portrays a stark and alarming vision of the potential consequences of a successful invasion, with scenes depicting the occupation of American cities, the suppression of civil liberties, and the imposition of a foreign regime.

The narrative unfolds as a series of vignettes, showcasing how different individuals and communities react to the news of the invasion. The film employs a documentary-style approach, interweaving fictional events with newsreel footage to create a sense of immediacy.

"Invasion, U.S.A." reflects the political climate of the early 1950s, marked by the Red Scare and heightened tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union. The film serves as a piece of anti-communist propaganda, emphasizing the need for unity and vigilance to protect American democracy.

Gerald Mohr (Vince Potter): Mohr delivers a strong performance as the protagonist, embodying the urgency and determination of his character.
Dan O'Herlihy (Mr. Ohman): O'Herlihy portrays the mysterious informant, adding an enigmatic and ominous quality to the narrative.

While "Invasion, U.S.A." is not considered a cinematic masterpiece, it is notable for its representation of Cold War paranoia and its use of propaganda elements. The film captures the fears and anxieties of its time, reflecting the broader cultural and political context of the early 1950s in the United States. It stands as a historical artifact, offering insights into the mindset of the era and the ways in which film was used to convey political messages.