By Ryan Smith

BRAVO!

EDINBORO — A colony of Earthlings finds itself doomed to suffocation in deep space.

Their Santa takes a suicidal turn — and he’s not the only one.

But against the tug of sheer madness, hope is born.

It’s “Christmas on Mars” — psychedelic sci-fi from the minds’ eyes of the Flaming Lips and their longtime associate, director Bradley Beesley.

And tonight, Beesley’s bringing “Christmas” to Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.

It’s all part of the Edinboro Film Series, which, in cooperation with Arts Erie, Edinboro University Student Government Association and Eerie Horror Film Fest, is hosting Beesley’s visit and presenting a screening of the feature film tonight at 8:30 at Louis C. Cole Memorial Auditorium.

“We decided to showcase this project because it has a real indie vibe and the fact that it’s a sci-fi, self-proclaimed B-movie starring the Flaming Lips screams instant cult classic,” said Film Series director John C. Lyons.

“Our guest has been with the band from the beginning and the chance to pick his brain should be a real treat for fans. We hope they come out in mass and in costume!,” he said.

“Seriously, come in costume.”

The Flaming Lips — three-time Grammy Award-winners — are the indie psychedelic rock legends perhaps best known for their complex, spacey arrangements; live shows that include copious amounts of confetti, man-sized plastic bubbles and general good cheer; the 1993 hit “She Don’t Use Jelly”; and acclaimed albums including 1999’s “The Soft Bulletin” and 2002’s “Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots.”

Beesley co-directed “Christmas on Mars” with the Lips’ Wayne Coyne and George Salisbury. His longtime collaboration with the group includes co-directing 10 of their music videos and the critically acclaimed documentary “The Fearless Freaks.”

His other works include “Summercamp!,” a documentary he co-directed with Sarah Price which premiered at the 2006 Toronto Film Festival and was picked up for theatrical distribution; and “Okie Noodling,” an award-winning documentary that captures the art of barehanded fishing and continues to have encore PBS broadcasts.

The Edinboro Film Series, according to Lyons and other organizers, was created to foster an environment that attracts, stimulates and educates future filmmakers, actors, artists and the general public. It also provides a comprehensive film-going experience, showcasing independent films and filmmakers while giving its audiences opportunities to ask questions and meet the artists.