In the realm of television, the 1980s was a golden age for science fiction, with a plethora of shows that, while not as widely remembered as their successors, are nonetheless worth revisiting. These forgotten gems, often overshadowed by the decade's more celebrated sci-fi offerings, offer a unique perspective on the genre's evolution and the societal concerns of the time. Let's delve into ten such shows, each with its own intriguing narrative and cultural significance.
The Tripods
One of the UK's finest contributions to 1980s sci-fi, "The Tripods" is a young adult show that paints a grim picture of a future where Earth has been conquered by aliens. The story, based on John Christopher's trilogy, is set in 2089, where the aliens patrol the landscape with giant tripod machines, and the population is kept in check through mind control. The show's intensity lies in its exploration of human helplessness against high-tech alien conquerors, leaving viewers wondering if overthrowing them is even possible. Personally, I find the show's ability to communicate the utter helplessness of the characters captivating, as it raises deeper questions about human resilience and resistance.
Star Cops
Set in 2027, "Star Cops" is a sci-fi drama that feels eerily topical. The show captures the jaded attitudes of our time as humanity colonizes space, leading to various space crimes. The International Space Police Force, or Star Cops, is tasked with maintaining order in this vast wilderness. What makes "Star Cops" refreshing is its realistic portrayal of space law enforcement, with a ragtag bunch of cops in ratty overalls, led by a balding chief who struggles to keep the operation together. The show's approach is just realistic enough to make you wonder how far we are from this spin on the future of space travel.
The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy
Douglas Adams' "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" is a legendary work of comedic science fiction. The 1981 BBC series, based on a radio adaptation, offers a charming and extremely British take on the unique scenarios described in Adams' story. The characters, from the befuddled Arthur Dent to the eccentric alien traveler Ford Prefect, are well-crafted and memorable. Fans of classic "Doctor Who" will find plenty to enjoy here, as Adams also worked on numerous "Doctor Who" projects. What makes this series particularly fascinating is its ability to capture the absurdity of the universe while still being grounded in reality.
Alien Nation
"Alien Nation" is a crime drama that, while overshadowed by the 1988 film of the same name, is a worthy watch. The show, set in a world where humanity struggles to coexist with a distinctive alien race called the Newcomers, offers a fresh take on the buddy cop genre. The main duo, Matthew Sykes and George Francisco, navigate the challenges of working together while also uncovering the truth about the aliens. The show's exploration of othering the unknown and the buddy cop chemistry between the leads make it an effective combination of a case-of-the-week procedural and a "District 9"-style exploration of othering the unknown.
Robotech
"Robotech" is a curious but worthy animated sci-fi series. The show, adapted from three unrelated Japanese mecha series, combines American storytelling sensibilities with anime aesthetics. The story, set in a vast war, is ambitious and effective, with a grand narrative that combines the themes and key plot points of the source material. While the show may not be the name on everyone's lips these days, it's still a space opera that holds water and should be experienced with an open mind.
Automan
"Automan" is a fun look into how 1980s science fiction perceived artificial intelligence. The show's titular character, an AI program that manifests in the real world as a man in a futuristic, glowing costume, is a superhero of sorts. The show's imagination is poured into every episode, from Automan's inventive powers to the presence of Cursor, a literal cursor object that can draw powerful vehicles into existence. While the show was canceled after just one season, it's still worth checking out for fans who want to experience every sci-fi crimefighter trope of the era rolled into one, glowing package.
Voyagers!
"Voyagers!" is a charming series that pairs a happy-go-lucky adult protagonist with a kid with smart aleck tendencies. The show, set in a world where time travel is possible, focuses on a well-meaning but bullheaded time traveler who, with the help of his young sidekick, corrects wrinkles in history. The end result is as clever as it is entertaining, but like many other shows on this list, "Voyagers!" didn't enjoy a lengthy existence.
Benji, Zax & The Alien Prince
"Benji, Zax & The Alien Prince" is a children's show that, despite its target audience, offers a surprising amount of lore and intrigue. Benji, the famous dog, finds a crashed UFO and tags along with its occupants, Prince Yubi and the hovering robot Zax. Benji soon establishes himself as Yubi's protector and outsmarts the bounty hunters trying to capture the prince. While it may not be "Star Trek," the show knows its subgenre and does it well.
Street Hawk
"Street Hawk" is a one-season answer to the iconic "Knight Rider." The show follows Jesse Mach, a desk jockey cop who agrees to lead a double life as the secretive pilot of a mysterious prototype motorcycle, Street Hawk. The titular vehicle is a sci-fi gadget stuffed chock full of lasers, super speed, and other things you might or might not expect. The show's entertaining stories, great motorcycle-themed visuals, and a cool opening theme by Tangerine Dream make it a delight to watch.
The Adventures of the Galaxy Rangers
"The Adventures of Galaxy Rangers" is a smart, big, and bold cartoon. The show, set in a retro-futuristic Western, combines space adventure with a "Star Wars"-sized story that's easy on the eyes and easy to enjoy. The titular Galaxy Rangers are responsible and capable peacekeepers who both uphold the law and defend their jurisdiction against the vampiric Crown Empire. The show's size extends to its episode count, with a whopping 65 episodes to enjoy.
