Universal Studios is given credit for creating and truly defining the horror film genre, beginning in the 1920s. It was, however, in the 1950s (post Atomic Age) that their horror genre began to include newly popular science fiction. This Island Earth is the memorable story about two rocket scientists that are abducted by a mysterious alien who needs to defend his planet Metaluna from invasion. Battling bug-eyed creatures, meteor storms and daring escape in a flying saucer, the scientists risk everything to return home to Earth.

The Metaluna Mutant is probably one of the most popular supporting monsters among classic horror fans. Appearing in the 1955 sci-fi classic "This Island Earth", the Metaluna Mutant really didn't get much screen time in the picture. He only appears in the last 10 minutes, or so, but still, it was such a fantastic costume that the image has stayed with fans, and memorabilia of it is still made to this day. This creature was one of the earliest, "bug-eyed monster" to appear in a Hollywood movie. In 2001, the Metaluna Mutant was released by Sideshow Toy as part of their 3rd series of 8" Universal Monsters action figures. The toy features 11 points of articulation (knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, wrists and neck) and was sculpted by Sideshow sculptor Oluf W. Hartvigson. Stand and two spaceship "transporter" handles included.