The Day the Earth Stood Still (1951)

Classic Sci-Fi Drama filmed in black and white... Made just after World War II, and at the start of the cold war with Russia - UFO lands in Washington DC and a human-like alien steps out holding a gift for the President of the United States. Problems begin as a nervous soldier shoots and wounds the humanoid. Then a large robot steps out of the space craft and "laser-melts" all the weapons held by the gathered military and police. The injured humanoid is taken to a military hospital for examination and tests but manages to escape, creating havoc in Washington as the public fear and mistrust of the alien escalates. But actually the alien means no harm. Very realistic movie with a clever script. Almost like it could really happen! 92 min.