Rediscovering Forgotten '70s Sci-Fi: Five Underrated TV Shows Worth Watching
The 1970s were a golden era for science fiction, with numerous iconic TV shows that have stood the test of time. From "Star Trek: The Animated Series" to "Battlestar Galactica," the decade was filled with groundbreaking sci-fi series like "The Six Million Dollar Man" and "The Incredible Hulk." However, not all sci-fi shows from the '70s have remained in the public consciousness, with many forgotten gems waiting to be rediscovered. Here are five underrated '70s sci-fi TV shows that deserve a second look.
"Planet of the Apes" was a popular movie franchise that spawned a television series in 1974. The show follows astronauts Alan Virdon and Peter Burke, who find themselves in a future where intelligent apes rule over humans. Teaming up with a young chimpanzee named Galen, the trio navigates a world where they are hunted by the ape society. Despite its short run, "Planet of the Apes" offers a unique take on the franchise's lore and is worth revisiting for fans of the movies.
"Space: 1999" is a British sci-fi series set in the near-future of 1999, where the Moon becomes a spaceship carrying a research station across the galaxy. With a diverse cast and intriguing alien encounters, the show explores the challenges of space travel and the quest to return home. "Space: 1999" filled the void left by "Star Trek" and offers a cozy, spacefaring adventure for sci-fi enthusiasts.
"Future Cop" stars Ernest Borgnine as a veteran police officer partnered with an android named John Haven. The show blends sci-fi elements with a police procedural format, focusing on the dynamic between the human cops and their robotic partner. With quirky characters and offbeat storylines, "Future Cop" stands out as a unique entry in '70s television.
"Man from Atlantis" follows Mark Harris, an undersea hero with superhuman abilities, as he explores the mysteries of the ocean. Played by Patrick Duffy, Harris encounters time portals, aliens, and underwater villains in his quest to protect the seas. While the show may seem outlandish at times, it offers a campy and entertaining take on the superhero genre.
In conclusion, the 1970s produced a wealth of sci-fi TV shows that have left a lasting impact on the genre. While some series have faded into obscurity, they still hold up today for their creativity and unique storytelling. By revisiting these forgotten gems, viewers can rediscover the magic of '70s sci-fi television and appreciate the diverse range of stories that were told during that era.