Warning, warning. Alien approaching.

No, it’s not the lumbering big screen version but the seminal 60s TV series - all 30 episodes of it, complete with outlandish storylines, literate scripts and CGI-free production. Originally entitled Space Family Robinson, it features a stranded all-American family, catapulted to a planet in the Alpha Centauri star system but thrown off course by saboteur Dr Smith, who becomes trapped during lift-off. (Questions at this point aren’t helpful.)

It’s the constant presence of Smith, ready to betray the Robinsons as they scrape by on the deserted planet, that gives Lost In Space its real appeal. He’ll happily use the last of the family’s drinking water for a shower or trade their young son’s brain for the sake of his own survival, then beg for their forgiveness. The series is currently being remade for American TV, directed by John Woo, so catch the original while you can. Extras Unaired pilot episode No Place To Hide, Making Of… featurette. (9/10)
Jonathan Carter 20 February 04

Lost In Space: Season One (Eight-Disc Set), out now on 20th Century Fox.

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