Lost In Space

Science fiction shows were all the rage, growing up in the 1960s. One of the most popular ones was Lost in Space. It ran from 1965 to 1968 for the CBS network and 83 episodes were aired. The setting was in the future, in 1997 and Earth was suffering from overpopulation and a lack of essential resources. Another planet, suitable for humans, must be found and the Robinson family volunteer for the mission.

Inspired by the Swiss Family Robinson story, the show was an adventure series, enjoyed by all the family. The story begins with the Robinson family setting out in their spaceship, the Jupiter 2. Professor John Robinson (Guy Williams) leads the expedition. He is accompanied by his wife, Dr Maureen Robinson (June Lockhart), and their three children, Will, Judy and Penny. Other members of the crew include their friend and trained pilot, Major Don West (Mark Goddard) and the Robot.

This is not a straightforward mission, however, as they have an uninvited guest on board. Psychologist Dr Zachary Smith (Jonathan Harris) was intent on sabotaging the spaceship, only to become trapped on board with the others. The extra payload of having Smith interferes with the ship's systems and the mission goes off course. Several guests appeared on Lost in Space, including some actors that would go on to be major stars. They included Michael J.Pollard, Kurt Russell and Daniel J. Travanti.

The complete series is available on DVD for fans that want to go down memory lane and for a new generation that missed it on TV. In addition to showing every episode, there are extras containing interviews with cast members and bloopers. Interest in the old Lost in Space was revived when a feature film version was released in 1998. It had an impressive cast and fans enjoyed seeing their show on the big screen. William Hurt played Professor John Robinson and Matt LeBlanc (Joey in Friends) took the role of Major Don West. Other cast members included Heather Graham and Mimi Rogers.

There is a range of merchandise available, in association with the show. This includes posters of the film and soundtrack CDs from the original series. Composer John Williams composed the theme tune and score, making futuristic, electronic sounds. There is a lot of interest in the Robot character. It had its own personality and technology enthusiasts can buy full size replicas of the robot. There is even a robot builders' club, dedicated to Lost in Space.

Summary: Ah, the old classics! Lost In Space captivated audiences of the 60s. It is the story about a family who lives in space looking for another earth-type planet since our own Earth is suffering from overpopulation and dwindling resources. the complete DVD series is available for those who may have missed this classic TV show.

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