Man Obsessed With Alien Friend's Return

The new Netflix film "Allen" explores the enduring impact of a childhood alien encounter on an adult's life. Petey, as a child in Coolum, formed a strong bond with an extraterrestrial he nicknamed Allen over a month of shared interests before the alien returned home.

Decades later, Petey remains stuck in a state of arrested development, consumed by his obsession. This fixation is a central theme addressed by director Daley Pearson, who co-founded Brisbane's Ludo Studio, known for "Bluey."

Pearson draws heavily from his own childhood experiences and influences, including 1980s and 1990s pop culture, which he likens to an "onslaught" that hooked consumers. The film's premise and aesthetic show significant nods to "E.T."

More profoundly, "Allen" is also a way for Pearson to process the loss of his older brother, Liam, to cancer at age 26 when Pearson was 13. He connects his fixation on nostalgia to the lingering grief and desire to reclaim what was lost.

The creation of the Allen character was a lengthy process, involving "intensive" development. Initial attempts with animatronic puppets proved "frightening," leading to a final design that is a puppet with digital enhancements for expressions and movement.

Despite the deep themes, Pearson emphasizes that the film also offers pure entertainment with a "ridiculous alien who sings karaoke," aiming for a "giddy time" for audiences, especially children. He notes that "Bluey's" success has added pressure but also a sense of responsibility.