About this episode
Richard C. Hoagland continues his investigation into the Mission to Mars film controversy with entertainment writer David Giamarco joining the discussion. They examine why director Brian De Palma fled to Europe immediately after the premiere, abandoning all promotional duties. Giamarco confirms seeing the controversial trailer showing actual Viking imagery of the face on Mars with text accusing NASA of a 25-year cover-up. NASA officials claim they cannot comment on the film despite their documented involvement as consultants with script approval. The discussion reveals Disney created the provocative trailer only two weeks before release, coinciding with Hoagland's radio coverage of the controversy. Story Musgrave, NASA astronaut and film consultant, defended the agency publicly while the trailer simultaneously accused NASA of conspiracy. Giamarco's firsthand accounts from the press junket reveal unprecedented dysfunction and contradictory messaging from a major Hollywood studio.