more fun with Moon Base Alpha

Space 1999 was a diverse series that had it all and then some. It was fun like Doctor Who, as abstract as the Prisoner, as explorational as Star Trek, as light as Lost In Space, as philosophical as 2001, as dark and claustophobic as the most entertaining horror movies and disaster films, as funny as Plan 9, and it even featured pre-Star Wars space battles that were truly a blast. On it's own merit it was also quite a unique series. It was never locked down into just one pattern so it never got sterile. There are episodes for every mood and mindset. One can enjoy the serious episodes or the just plain fun escapism. The setting of 1999 only adds to the fun and the out of control moon idea was certainly original. Many episodes allow the viewer to come to one's own conclusions and there's little clear continuity after the first episode which also allows creativity on the part of the veiwer. It's a very expansive and wonderous universe that's explored in different ways. The diversity of styles and ideas are it's greatest strength. It's always a wild ride.

Not legendary but still above average TV

If you're gonna quibble over which season is best, then Shatner's right - GET A LIFE!

I also saw this great series as a kid - in the 70s, before Star Wars, all we had was this, reruns of Trek, the Avengers & the Prisoner. Notice how most sci-fi needs at least 1 Brit (or at least a European) to give it some class - just a side thought...

As a kid, I liked the 2nd season - as an adult I like them both. The 1st season is a little darker in tone but I don't agree it was more 'adult' - just darker and less action-packed. As an adult, I see that it was more existential in tone, usually pitting Koenig against his crew. As a kid, this was a bit disturbing seeing how easily his crew turned against him, but as an adult, this does make the 1st season seem more realistic. However, the show's plotlines owe a lot to Star Trek. I can pick any episode from either season and find elements already worked in Trek.

However, the Trek-remakes owe a lot to this show. Trek TNG, DS9, and Voyager were basically a collective Space 1999 redo - the commander/doctor dynamic, the lost castaway feel, etc.

I still love the set design, the Eagles, and the space backgrounds. Because of the 2001:Space Odyssey underpinnings, the show still visually holds up. I like Koenig's (note the prevalence of J & K in scifi leader names) beseiged attitude and the mix of old & young characters in the cast.

Great show

Space 1999 - Set #8

The last set in the Space 1999 collection. This 2-DVD set contains the last 6 episodes of the ground-breaking 70's-era sci-fi series. If you are a Space 1999 fan (like I am) this is a must-have to complete your collection. The special effects aren't up to today's standards, but 30 years ago they were mind-boggling -- especially for a 10 year old! The bonus features (interviews with the actors, etc.) are a nice finishing touch...