Space:1999

Well, I've done it. I've gorged myself upon every episode of the classic science fiction TV show, Space: 1999. It chronicled the lives of the crew of Moon Base Alpha after the Moon is blasted out of Earth orbit and sent careening through space (and even time and other dimensions). The show was brought to us by the same creative minds that gave us "Thunderbirds", "Captain Scarlet" and "UFO."

My first impression wasn't very good. After watching the first three episodes I was ready to give up. But, I decided not to and stuck with it. I'm glad I did.

The first season became quite good. A number of the episodes were entertaining and thought provoking in addition to being creative, original and even daring television. The show is incredibly metaphysical and delved into myth creation like a 2001 every week.

It, of course, has its ups and downs. I found the pacing to be quite slow even for the era in which it was made. Personally, I hate the uniforms. The plant seance was way over the top (though it was saved a bit by being a McGuffin).

What surprised me the most was the influence of the show. Star Trek: The Motion Picture is basically "Space: 1999 The Motion Picture." The uniforms are almost an exact copy. The feel and pacing are very similar. Ilia's replicate was nearly lifted from an episode.

Star Trek: The Next Generation picked up a lot as well. A captain and a female doctor with a history that could lead to romance. The captain's Ready Room. Really, the whole idea of a comfort-minded ship. Possibly, even the idea of families on board. The quote, "resistant is futile," also plays a role in several episodes of Space: 1999.

Most surprising was that several Stargate SG-1 episodes echo themes, ideas or even situations from Space: 1999 (turning into a caveman for just one example). Also, the X-wing pilot suits from Star Wars look somewhat like the suits used in Space.

I don't think the writers were stealing or copying. I think Space: 1999 hit a mark that resonated with writers of science fiction.

If you get a chance check out this series. It's a trip.

Wait...! What...? Did I forget the second season? No, I watched it. It has a totally different feel. Some interesting ideas. But, it falls short of what the first season tried to create. Worth watching? Yep, but know what you're getting into.