Brave New Jersey Takes Us to Night of the War of the Worlds Radio Broadcast
Jonathan Barkan
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The War of the Worlds radio broadcast in 1938 set off a panic the likes of which hasn’t been seen since. Countless American citizens were convinced that the story they were hearing was true and that the world was being invaded by Martians. While ridiculous to think about now, it’s a fascinating event that really speaks to how important and powerful entertainment can be.
In Jody Lambert’s film Brave New Jersey, we witness a small New Jersey town that hears the broadcast and, believing that this is their last night to live, open themselves up to taking risks and chances they never would’ve done before. While not horror, the foundation of this film is so iconic to our genre that I feel like it would be a shame to not let you all know about it!
Directed by Jody Lambert, who co-wrote the film with Michael Dowling, Brave New Jersey stars Tony Hale, Heather Burns, Anna Camp, Sam Jaeger, and Raymond J. Barry.
Synopsis:
In a small New Jersey town on the night of Orson Welles’s legendary 1938 “War of the Worlds” radio broadcast, the hoax that terrified millions into believing Martians were invading America, citizens face what they think is their last night on Earth. The over-worked town’s mayor Clark (Tony Hale) will take a chance on love. The neglected housewife, Lorraine (Heather Burns) will break free from her big-cheese husband (Sam Jaeger). The demure schoolteacher Peg (Anna Camp) will become a warrior. The aimless reverend (Dan Bakkedahl) will rediscover his faith. The scared Sheriff (Mel Rodriguez) will find his courage. And the reclusive war veteran (Raymond J. Barry) will become a hero as he convinces the town to fight the aliens. All these characters join forces for a final “battle” that leads to a surprising and hilarious outcome.
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