Lego Space Space subtheme in which the entire theme is "good", "bad", or "civilian". Life on Mars is a space theme released in 2001, around a time of increased curiosity about the red planet. The theme revolved around the concept of the lifeforms that could possibly exist on Mars. This was the first Space theme to feature two types of minifigures: human astronauts and Martian aliens. The sets denote peaceful coexistence between the two species on the planet Mars. The "Life on Mars" theme pioneered several unique aspects in Lego in general. It was the first Lego theme to utilize a pneumatic
Red Planet Mars staff at "Variety" liked the film, writing, "Despite its title, "Red Planet Mars" takes place on terra firma, sans space ships, cosmic rays or space cadets. It is a fantastic concoction [from a play by John L. Balderston and John Hoare] delving into the realms of science, politics, religion, world affairs and Communism...Despite the hokum dished out, the actors concerned turn in creditable performances." "The New York Times", while giving the film a mixed review, wrote well of some of the performances, "Peter Graves and Andrea King are serious and competent, if slightly callow in appearance, as the indomitable scientists.