Ashes to Ashes is the sequel to the critically acclaimed series “Life on Mars“. Returning to “Gene Hunt’s” world, this time the viewer visits 80s London. Blending elements of science fiction, and crime drama, the series explores themes of memory, trauma, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. Like it’s predecessor, all while paying homage to the iconic culture and music of the era.

The premise of the series revolves around Detective Inspector Alex Drake (played by Keeley Hawes), a criminal psychologist from 2008. In the first episode, she is shot during a police investigation, and instead of dying, she wakes up in 1981 London. Much like Sam Tyler, the protagonist of “Life on Mars,” Alex believes she is in a coma and that her experience in the 1980s is a product of her unconscious mind. Her primary goal is to find a way back to her own time, while also trying to unravel the mystery of why she has been sent to this specific moment in history.

Upon waking in 1981, Alex finds herself working at the Fenchurch East police station, where she is teamed up with DCI Gene Hunt (Philip Glenister), a brash, no-nonsense detective who embodies a rough-and-tumble approach to policing that was emblematic of the era. Gene is joined by fellow “Life on Mars” characters, DS Ray Carling (Dean Andrews) and DC Chris Skelton (Marshall Lancaster),  who mature considerably through this series.  Hunt’s methods often clash with Alex’s modern sensibilities, creating tension but also a compelling dynamic between the two characters.

The 1980s backdrop allows “Ashes to Ashes” to explore the social and political climate of the time, including issues like police corruption, the rise of Thatcherism, and the changing role of women in the workplace. The show also features a killer soundtrack, while the club scene is explored, as well as the crazy makeup of the era. Including hits from David Bowie, Duran Duran, and The Clash it’s a musical time capsule for viewers.

The show must be watched after the original series “Life on Mars” and to it’s conclusion. It culminates in a third and final season, which ties together many of the mysteries that have been building since the first series. The ending is both surprising and thought-provoking, offering a satisfying conclusion to the overarching narrative.  Not to be missed, but also not to be rushed. The conclusion is powerful because of the character development across the two series.

A remarkable expansion on the original series’ themes with its own identity. Its mix of nostalgia, psychological drama, and crime procedural elements make it a unique and compelling show. Whether you’re a fan of 1980s pop culture or drawn to complex, character-driven stories, “Ashes to Ashes” offers something for a broad range of viewers. Through its innovative storytelling and memorable characters, it stands as one of the BBC’s finest dramas.

 Life on Mars was also made into a Korean Drama

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Repo Man, directed by Alex Cox and released in 1984, is a film that defies easy categorization. Blending elements of science fiction, punk rock culture, and satire, it has secured a place as a cult classic in American cinema. The film’s unique combination of genres, its offbeat narrative style, and its sharp social commentary make it a standout work of the 1980s.

The story follows Otto Maddox, played by Emilio Estevez, a disaffected young punk in Los Angeles. Otto after being fired from his job at a supermarket, reluctantly enters the world of repossessing cars. A bizarre subplot involving a 1964 Chevrolet Malibu, with a weapon in it’s trunk that becomes the object of pursuit for various factions, including government agents, UFO enthusiasts, and rival repo men.

The film’s punk identity is highlighed in it’s soundtrack. Featuring bands like Iggy Pop, Black Flag, and Suicidal Tendencies, is a critical component in reinforcing the film’s rebellious spirit. The title track, performed by Iggy Pop, captures the anarchic energy of the punk scene and the film’s overall vibe.

Beyond its punk rock surface, “Repo Man” offers a sharp critique of various aspects of 1980s American society. The film satirizes consumer culture, particularly with it’s generic white label products showcased throughout the film. Symbolizing the homogenization of consumer goods and the emptiness of consumer culture.

“Repo Man” influenced a generation of independent filmmakers with its low-budget aesthetic and genre-blending approach. The anti-establishment, punk theme seem at odds with sci-fi, but not when you consider conspiracy theories. So the film mocks a growing paranoia around government surveillance and cover-ups.

Those looking for something different from Hollywood’s main offerings, gave this movie a cult like following. “Repo Man” was not a major box office success upon its initial release. Its success demonstrated that films outside the Hollywood mainstream could find an audience and achieve lasting cultural significance.  The spirit of rebellion disillusionment of the 1980s is captured in Repo Man. Its blend of punk rock sensibility, science fiction intrigue, and social satire offers a unique cinematic experience.

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Korean Life on Mars is the South Korean remake of popular British series by the same name.   It’s a television drama that blends elements of science fiction, crime, and psychological thriller genres. Directed by Lee Jung-hyo, it aired on OCN and became notable for its gripping narrative, strong performances, and the seamless way it wove together the elements of a crime procedural with time travel.

The story follows Han Tae-joo (played by Jung Kyung-ho), a modern-day detective with an analytical mind. He relies heavily on evidence and logical reasoning in his investigations. While chasing down a serial killer, he is involved in a mysterious accident. Tae-joo wakes up to find himself transported back to the year 1988, a time when the methods of crime-solving lacked the forensic precision he was accustomed to.

In 1988, Tae-joo is thrust into a world where technology is primitive, and the rules of policing are vastly different. He joins a police force led by the rough-and-ready Kang Dong-chul (played by Park Sung-woong), who relies more on gut instinct and old-school methods. The team also includes the righteous Yoon Na-young (played by Go Ah-sung), and the rookie Lee Yong-gi (played by Oh Dae-hwan). Together, they navigate the criminal underworld of the late 1980s, while Tae-joo struggles to find a way back to his time.

Korea Life on Mars stands out as a successful adaptation of the original British series, while adding its own unique flair through cultural and historical nuances specific to South Korea in the late 1980s. Set in the year of the Olympics. The drama does an excellent job of capturing the retro aesthetic of the era, from the fashion and vehicles to the police procedural methods, giving the show a distinct nostalgic charm. And while the story lines run parallel to the original series, they have their own unique twist. Characters are slightly different too, unique in both personality and from a cultural perspective to the BBC production.

The show also excels in its pacing and plot development. Each episode presents a new case for the team to solve, but the overarching mystery of Tae-joo’s predicament is carefully unraveled throughout the series. This balance between episodic storytelling and serialized narrative keeps the audience engaged, eager to discover the truth behind Tae-joo’s time travel.

The production of Korea Life on Mars involved meticulous attention to detail to accurately recreate the late 1980s. The props, sets, and costumes were all designed to reflect the era, providing a rich and immersive experience for the audience. The cast reportedly underwent extensive preparation to embody the attitudes and behaviors of the time, with particular focus on the differences in police work between 1988 and 2018.

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Ultraman a pioneering Japanese television series, originally aired from 1966 to 1967. Created by Eiji Tsuburaya, the series marks the beginning of what would become the most spin-off producing franchise ever. Ultraman follows the adventures of an extraterrestrial superhero, an Ultra, who defends Earth from giant monsters and alien threats.

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The series begins with the arrival of a mysterious alien, Ultraman, who comes to Earth to assist the Science Patrol, a special team tasked with protecting humanity from giant kaiju (monsters).  But for all his strength, Ultraman’s power is limited by Earth’s environmental factors, draining quickly and needing recharge. Ultraman saves one of the science patrol, Shin Hayata, from a near fatal accident, fusing with him and remaining dorment until his extrodinary strength is needed to push back the impending alien / monster threats.

The show’s plot revolves around these battles against various monsters, who each pose a unique threat to humanity. When danger arises, Ultraman emerges from Hayata’s body and uses his incredible size, strength, and special abilities to combat these threats. His main weapon is the Specium Ray, which can defeat even the most formidable monsters. The transformation from Hayata to Ultraman is a key dramatic element of the series, showcasing a blend of action and character development.

The series special – effects, while cheesy by today’s standards, were ground breaking in the 60s. The costume for Ultraman changed after the first 13 episodes, then again for the 30th episode. Each episode was a combination of action, drama, with a morality tale. The concluding message of courage, teamwork, and the importance of protecting the environment may be in part reason for the longevity of the Ultraman franchise. While the show’s special effects and monster designs might seem dated by modern standards, they hold a nostalgic charm and remain influential in the genre.

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Dune 1984, is a science fiction epic based on Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel of the same name. Set in a distant future where noble families vie for control of the desert planet Arrakis, known for its valuable spice melange.  Hebert, though a science fiction writer, was really a commentator on the  strength of the human mind and spirit as much as on humanity’s weaknesses, falling prey to greed, and political manipulation.   The film follows young Paul Atreides as he becomes embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue, betrayal, and prophecy.

At its core, “Dune” explores themes of power, destiny, and ecological stewardship. The struggle for control of Arrakis, mirrors real-world conflicts over finite resources, highlighting the consequences of unchecked greed and imperialism. The film’s intricate plot and richly imagined universe captivate viewers, drawing them into a world of complex characters and intricate politics.

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Visually stunning, “Dune” boasts impressive special effects and elaborate set designs that bring Herbert’s universe to life. From the towering sandworms of Arrakis to the opulent palaces of the noble houses, every detail is meticulously crafted to immerse audiences in a futuristic world of wonder and danger.  Despite its visual splendor, “Dune” received mixed reviews upon its release, with some critics praising its ambition and imagination while others criticized its convoluted plot and uneven pacing. Lynch’s unconventional storytelling style, characterized by dreamlike imagery and nonlinear narrative, polarized audiences and left many viewers perplexed.  Truly this film is best enjoyed by avid readers who have already devoured Herbert’s Dune saga, and can fill in all the gaps in this extremely complex narrative.

Dune 1984 is only an early taste of what has become a dynasty in it’s own right.  Frank Hubert died in 1986, having published  5 more books in his Dune series. His son Brian, using his father’s notes collaborated with another science fiction author Kevin J. Anderson to continue the series. They have released 2 trilogies which prequel Frank’s original story as well as two novels which bring a conclusion to the Dune Character’s story arches.

For visual media, we have Dune as a 3 part television series in 2000,  and more recently as a movie in 2021, the conclusion of which was released this year under the title Dune 2. Needless to say, “Dune” has  gained a cult following and is celebrated for its bold vision and groundbreaking visuals. Its influence can be seen in subsequent science fiction films and television series, inspiring generations of filmmakers and fans alike.   While it may not have been universally embraced upon its release, its enduring legacy and passionate fan base attest to its lasting impact on the science fiction genre.

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Gemini Man captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, espionage, and futuristic technology. Harve Bennett and Michael Sloan created the show about an adventure seeking deep sea diver Sam Casey, who, after a bizarre accident has the superpower of invisibility for 15 mins every 24 hours. His secret special gift, gets him recruited as a government spy.

Ben Murphy portrays Sam Casey,  a talented spy working for a top-secret government agency known as INTERSECT. Unbeknownst to his colleagues, with the help of a special watch, embedded with experimental technology called the “Gemini Factor”,  Sam could activate his invisible state and tackle dangerous missions with stealth and agility.

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Katherine Crawford, playing Abby Lawrence, a brilliant scientist and potential love interest to Sam, joins him in each episode of Gemini Man.  She is responsible for saving his life with the stabilizing effects of the Gemini Factor. She coordinated the research into making his watch and provides technical support to him during his missions. Each episode of Gemini Man follows Sam as he took on assignments that required his unique abilities. From infiltrating criminal organizations to foiling international conspiracies, Sam used his invisibility to gather information, outsmart adversaries, and save the day.

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Gemini Man was cancelled after just one season, with its final episode airing in 1977. The show had its strengths, with solid performances by its cast and a unique and intriguing premise. However, it was up against the iconic Charlie’s Angels, the 6 Million Dollar Man and the Bionic Woman, and it cost more to produce as the special effects of invisibility were more demanding than the slow-motion and sound effects of bionics. Nevertheless, Gemini Man left a lasting impression on fans of science fiction and espionage, with its concept of invisibility continuing to influence popular culture in subsequent years.

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Directed by George Roy Hill, Slaughterhouse Five was based on a time-travel novel by the same name, written by Kurt Vonnegut. It was directed by George Roy Hill. Slaughterhouse Five tells the story of Billy Pilgrim, a WWII soldier who becomes “unstuck in time” and experiences moments from his past, present, and future, out of order. A classic of American literature, Slaughter House Five explores the human experience including themes of war and death.

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The non-linear storytelling, gives the viewer the same disjointed confusion that one would expect it’s hero to be experiencing as he leaps about in time. The film’s unconventional narrative structure, creates a unique and immersive viewing experience, as the audience goes through the same events from multiple perspectives. Michael Sacks in his portrayal of Billy Pilgrim, is another standout aspect of Slaughterhouse Five. Sacks perfectly captures the vulnerability and intensity of the role, making his character very relatable.

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Despite its many strengths, Slaughterhouse Five is not without its flaws. The easily offended might find it’s depiction of violence and bleak world view disturbing, but for those who have been through tough times, this can be understood as how life is for some. Others lacking focus, may find it’s slow pace and confusing narrative structure, challenging to follow. But if you can handle war movies or like time travel films, it is not one to miss.

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Despite these criticisms, Slaughterhouse Five is a powerful and unforgettable film. A classic of American literature, it is widely regarded as one of the defining films of the 1970s. Its impact on the film industry and its influence on subsequent generations of filmmakers cannot be overstated. Whether you’re a fan of war films, science fiction, or simply a good story, at least once in your lifetime, you should tune in and go along for the ride, that is Slaughterhouse Five.

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“V” The Final Battle is a three part series made to conclude the popular “V” the original miniseries. The show, first aired in 1984, just a year after the original, while interest in the characters and the new sci-fi was high. This gripping series is a much needed follow up to the original, following a group of human rebels as they fight against an invading force of aliens who have taken over Earth.

“V” The Final Battle is the conclusion to the original mini series that aired in 1983.

One of the most enthralling aspects of “V: The Final Battle” is its ability to keep tensions high and maintain the sense of danger throughout the series. The aliens, known as Visitors, are portrayed as ruthless and powerful, and the human characters are constantly struggling to stay alive and resist their oppression. This makes for a thrilling and suspenseful viewing experience.

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Like the original, “V” the Final Battle also does a great job of exploring themes of power, oppression, and resistance. It raises questions about what it means to be human, and the importance of standing up for oneself and others. The series also deals with the moral implications of fighting against an enemy, the importance of unity and the cost of freedom.

Perhaps the best reason to watch “V” the Final Battle is its triumphant outcome. The viewer is imbued with hope and optimism by the end, with the Visitors being defeated and the humans reclaiming their planet. The intense final battle is epic; a powerful reminder that even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, the human spirit can triumph.

In conclusion, “V: The Final Battle” is a must-watch for fans of science fiction and political drama. Perhaps the most compelling message here is a reminder of what we seem to have lost as a society. In the age of superhero films; we forget that no-one is coming to save us from real life’s tyranny. When faced with an overwhelming foe, it is the strong who protect each other. Like the “V” miniseries, victory of the oppressed is dependent upon uniting our efforts, revealing our true enemy instead of letting them divide us into squabbling camps. As for the weak, they empower these dark forces and ultimately are it’s most numerable victims. So we should watch both the original “V” miniseries and its sequel, “V” the Final Battle, to learn how to recognize tyranny. Hope prevails when true heroes get involved to the best of their capacities, never expecting someone else to fight their battles for them. The only losers are those who self-righteously embrace oppression, because they will trading in their livelihood for someone else’s vision of how they should live (and die).

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“V” the Original miniseries is a story is of a totalitarian alien race known as the Visitors, who come to Earth in seemingly peaceful ships and promise to share their advanced technology with humanity. Their arrival is worldwide, everyone is addressed in their own languages, and the aliens even look like us. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that the Visitors have a sinister agenda, and a small group of human rebels must band together to stop them.

Created by Kenneth Johnson, “V” the Original miniseries and was a huge ratings success when it first aired. This led to a sequel movie series, “V” the Final Battle, a spin-off weekly series, and a 2008 reboot. The series is a science fiction classic, and it is still considered one of the most iconic and influential science fiction shows of all time. The lead actors, including Marc Singer, Faye Grant, and Jane Badler, all deliver strong performances and are able to convey the complex emotions and motivations of their characters. The Visitors themselves, portrayed by actors in alien makeup, are also extremely well-done and are able to convey a sense of otherness and menace.

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Tension and suspense are slowly built up in “V” the Original miniseries. The Visitors’ true nature is slowly revealed, keeping the audience guessing to their true intentions, until the very end. The show also does a great job of exploring the themes of trust, betrayal, and resistance, and it raises important questions about the nature of freedom and the dangers of blindly following authority.

Overall, “V” the Original miniseries is a classic science fiction tale, worthy of a watch today. The acting, special effects, and suspenseful story make it a compelling, but its exploration of political themes and questions of freedom and authority, make it a must see thought-provoking piece of science fiction. While it may have some flaws, the current political climate and worldwide recent power consolidations make it a series not to miss..

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Flash Gordon splashed down in1980 on the silver screens. It was never meant to be taken serious. Instead, it’s an outrageous and fun fantasy romp with an incredibly great theme song. This movie is a science fiction space opera directed by Mike Hodges. It’s a definite winner for people that just want to be entertained, without having to deal with a plot designed to preach the agenda of Hollywood’s elites. Flash Gordon is best watched while consuming hot butter popcorn and root beer floats! Put your silly faces on, and enjoy your trip into the 1980s twilight zone!

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Created by Alex Raymond for the King Features comic strip. It walked a fine line of encapsulating both the nostalgia of the original 1930s comics and a healthy dose of 1980s cheesiness. The 80s super rock group, Queen, did the theme song and it immediately became both a fan hit and legendary. Flash Gordon is the classic tale of an underdog fighting against oppression, somehow beating the odds to win, both the battle and his girl. The movie stars Sam J. Jones, Melody Anderson, Ornella Muti, Max Von Sydow and Timothy Dalton.

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In this movie version, it’s New York Jets football star, Gregory, aka. ” Flash Gordon” who becomes the accidental hero of the story. Boarding a small plane, he meets the lovely travel agent Dale Arden. A mid-flight meteor collision kills the pilots and Flash Gordon takes over the controls, crash landing into the greenhouse of Dr. Hans Zarkov. Considered a mad scientist. Dr. Zarkov believes that the earth is being pushed towards the moon, by some extra-terrestrial source, causing all the natural disasters. He has built a space ship to get evidence and be taken seriously, but his assistant refuses to go. So instead the doctor tricks Flash Gordon and Dale into boarding.

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