UFOs have been widely popular for decades. Not only do they have their place in fiction, names like “Roswell” and “Area 51” have long been a part of the mainstream. Now referred to as Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP), there has been something of a resurgence in recent years. The latest investigative documentary from filmmaker James Fox attempts to capitalize on this renewed interest while steadfastly sticking to old formulas.
In his previous works regarding the subject, Fox has shown a willingness to research the topic. Yes, there are the secretive interviews and footage of supposed UFOs, but there is not the sensationalist aspect found in these films. It is unfortunate that The Program relies so heavily on shocking revelations.
On the positive side, a few of them work. One chapter of The Program is bombastically titled ‘Photograph of the Century’. It is a name so over the top that it is impossible to live up to. When the actual picture is shown, it is actually pretty awesome. It is a shame that it is such a short part of the entire film.
Regrettably, most of The Program falls into the normal traps found in the genre. Most of the time is spent overpromising and underdelivering. The opening montage perfectly sets the tone. It is standard fare filled with quick edits and interviews with experts that hint at more. Much of the footage is used many more times, but the biggest offender is the constant clips of one person who keeps talking about the wealth of information he knows but cannot share.
It is a tactic often seen in these documentaries that either leads to a wild claim or something that is underwhelming. Here, it does neither as over numerous clips, the person basically says the same thing – that they are unable to divulge any information – in different ways. It becomes very annoying very quickly.
At almost two hours, nothing new is brought to the table and the whole thing begins to lose sight of its intended goal. What starts as a focused investigation about a secretive operation run by the United States government becomes a globe-trotting affair that discusses sightings from around the world and, eventually, even aliens. The Program has its moments but ends up being standard ufologist fare.
The Program is available on digital now.
