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ComLoC is a Space: 1999 fan publication published every so often by Chuck Raue, Mobile, AL 36606 with the aid of the assistant-idiot-in-charge-of-a-little-bit-of-everything, Carl Lamb. The opinions expressed in this fanzine are not necessarily those of the editor. This issue of ComLoC is dedicated to Barry Morse and the wonderful character he portrayed, Victor Bergman. Victor, the wisest Alphan of them all and a character sorely missed by us all. Cover art by Marty Siegrist.
Burt Libe, Los Altos, CA 94022 (10/3/76)
Space: 1999 fandom has not matured to Star Trek levels. Main reason is almost total lack of info about the show: episode titles, episode synopses, cast characters and actors, and order of show/episode release (to name a few subjects). Also ITC (Independent Television Corporation) seems to show little concern for promoting fan contact with the studios directly in England, apparently caring less about fan feedback. In fact, ITC (New York) ungraciously ripped off my SASE (enclosed with my request for the London studio address) - not even having the courtesy to answer. And if they don't care, maybe we shouldn't care. If they say to hell with us, maybe we should say to hell with them.
First and most important is to delineate who's who with some reference to character background situations, story characters, and actors. Created by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson? Who are Gerry and Sylvia Anderson??? Who are the producers? The directors? How were the actors chosen? What about the British actors? Most of us Yanks know Martin Landau and Barbara Bain. What about Cathy Schell? Whore in England is Space: 1999 filmed? I never felt more ill-at-ease and helpless with any science fiction TV show.
Episodes are difficult to remember (poor editing). They're not run that often. Newspaper reviews read consistently bad (except for the lavish set expense/creativity). Our own KRON-TV (channel 4) bumped the show twice in a row (new season) for "specials". Show airs 7:00 P.M. Saturdays (if and when it airs at all) - the most difficult time for even my viewing habits and schedules. Same time slot is bad for others too. Perhaps KRON-TV is trying to tell us something?
Bad editing and bad scripting seem to be the two worst problems. Most first-season plots required painstaking labour to follow. Some didn't make sense. Most had weak plotting - especially with the formidable villains who met their doom in incredibly dumb-ass contrivances.
Love failed to make itself known. Cold, unfeeling motions churned the cast through their hum-drum actions. Landau and Bain came across as disjointed entities rather than strong driving character forces. Both partners of this man-and-wife team are professionals' professionals in every sense of the acting game. Both did great work in Mission: Impossible. How does one tell such seasoned professionals their perfunctory Space: 1999 efforts don't wash? Why do such seasoned professionals turn in banal renditions when they should know better? Many such questions remain unanswered. And unless such questions are answered Space: 1999 faces impending doom and deservedly so.
I consider "Another Time, Another Place" (last episode of first season, I think) my favourite. Personal involvement of the characters came to life for the first time in conjunction with the well conceived splitting-of-moons time/space premise.
Second season (I have only seen three episodes) has definitely improved plotwise, but still has a long way to go. Again, formidable villain problems with dumb-ass solutions. Action shows more balance. Landau and Bain are trying hard to convey strained love. Show still lacks. Gone are some previous supporting-cast hopefuls especially our little Caucasian lady with the near-almond eyes (and I can't even remember her name!). Gone are most of the others too. And I can't even remember THEIR names! Space: 1999 seems to support forgettable characters.
Enter, Cathy Schell as Maya. Cathy Schell - a superb professional whose abilities remain stifled by insensitive direction. What in the hell is going on back there in the management tangles? Who is mucking up and why? I might christen Space: 1999 as an exercise in how to derive the worst performances from the most talented people. Hoe is this possible? This opens a Pandora's box of new anti-art concepts. I might suggest some behind-the-scenes producers, directors, writers, and film editors get off their fat one track tails and start thinking. Good science fiction tells stories about people. Good science fiction flows smoothly. Good science fiction creates powerful drama. If they start thinking good science fiction, maybe they'll start producing good science fiction.
Maya has excellent possibilities, but certainly not with her present unrestrained powers of chameleon-changes (which boarder on the ludicrous, unbelievable, whimsy/fantasy) and the reckless way she employs them. My, how could I ever fantasize sleeping with such a lovely lady for fear of waking up beside a black panther bright and early next morn? What-a-way-to-go does not apply here! Hell, this is no woman, this is a terror! I don't see how anyone could consider Maya a "female Spock". Many enraptured female Trekkies could spend hours fantasizing sexual relations with Spock. Could males visualize such relations with Maya? Now I couldn't imagine a harsher turnoff to even the most macho of males.
Maya's problem: her powers. Solution: Maya must lose her powers. The fact that she once had. them will generate several interesting episodes and subplots about her adjustment to normal "human" life. Being more human (even with severely limited powers) will make her believable. And please give Maya normal-hair eyebrows in the present styling/shape. Get rid of that ridiculous witches peak/sideburn darkening; subtle accentuation of highly-dimpled cheeks will more than suffice. Offer her present costume to Mae West and give Maya a sharp, stylish uniform. Present hairstyles, less brambles and bobbles, is very attractive. Use whatever additional makeup improvements necessary to enhance (not desWhat little comes troy) Cathy Schell's potentially stunning allure. through of her talent, beauty, and charisma moves me deeply. I know she can turn Maya into the most wonderful esteemed goddess given half a chance. Let us hope that she is given that chance.
I looking forward to quick improvement in Space: 1999 before it is too late.
Patti Cullen, Mount Kisco, NY 10549 (9/27/76)
I think that I had made up my mind to dislike Space: 1999 even before its premiere last year: I had seen excerpts of it on various talk shows (on which Barbara Bain and Martin Landau both went on about how wonderful the show was). Then I found the first of the book adaptations and they were so bad that I didn't even finish them. But I decided to watch the show anyway.
In our area Space played on two stations -- a Connecticut ABC affiliate and a New York independent station (good old channel 11 which also showed Star Trek). It opened first on the ABC affiliate, and it left me feeling a trifle disgusted. This was science fiction?? No, it was sci-fi. What happened to Barbara Bain?? She left her talent on the set of Mission: Impossible. Explosions making sound on the moon?? Astronauts dropping like security guards?? Hey, come on now, get serious! The only thing that impressed me was the characterization of the Eagle pilot Alan Carter. Nick Tate was the only actor who seemed to know what he was doing.
Well, I watched a few more times --sometimes under duress when I was babysitting. I came to like Victor Bergman and I thought that the Eagles were neat, but I joined the majority of Trekfen and condemned the show. I was not impressed with the special effects (as I have said elsewhere) because I knew they were all modified from the Anderson's earlier marionette programs. By comparison I liked UFO more than Space. Then I saw the episode "Earthbound".
No, no, it wasn't like *HALLELUJAH* discovery of Star Trek, but I liked it. The storyline was good. The aliens were friendly. Simmonds was a perfect villain. I approved of the whole thing. But then I saw a repeat of "Dragon's Domain" and I lost the good feeling. I gave 1999 up as hopeless.
Ah, but then I went to August Party and met Nick Tate -- that was hallelujah time! What many people didn't know was that the first season of Space had been filmed two years before it was shown on American TV. And that extensive changes were made on the basis of criticism received from viewers. I saw the uncut version of "The Metamorph" and thoroughly enjoyed it. I met the members of the '99/UFO club. I was almost a convert.
Last night I watched the premiere on channel 11 - it was cut in several places. But I enjoyed it again -- I could relate to all the characters. The new music added to the mood. The action was better paced, the storyline consistent. Things were explained -- total mystery may have been a good ploy for 2001, but week after week it's asking too much of the viewers. I like Maya, but I still have doubts how she will fit I'm giving Space: 1999 a second chance, which is only fair.
George Perkins, Brookings, SD 57006 (10/31/76)
Of all the multitudes of changes for the better in the second year of Space: 1999, one sticks out as being totally an opposite change - for the worse. I speak of Maya of course.
Her outward appearance as an alien (not as a female -- she scores an A on that count) is stupid. Why the crazy makeup on her cheeks? And why the Spock-like eyebrows she isn't even Vulcan! Luckily Frieberger or whomever Maya's creator was, didn't give her pointed ears as well!
Emotionally Maya just hasn't had time to be explained on the air. Her mind seems to work like a computer (being able to navigate an eagle in "Brian the Brain"), but she also seems to contain compassion and emotion. The two may look together, but intelligence of a high degree is usually associated with a stoic outward appearance, as far as I can tell.
The biggest piece of insanity, in creating Maya, was her strange "molecular transformation" ability. Why wasn't Maya's father capable of it? (In other words, why didn't he change into a bird and fly out of the fire, before his planet exploded?) But why molecular transformation anyway? It is impossible. A 50 kilogram woman can't change into a 1 kilogram bird in a flash the matter either weighs the same, or a terrifically high (very high indeed) amount of energy must be given off.
Nor can a 50 kilogram woman become a 100 kilogram brutish ape-thing and lift a panel off of a crushed man, and then return to a woman again. Where is all this energy coming from? Or, where does it all go?
Why then, does Space: 1999 seem to be always stuck with stupid inaccuracies in its super sets, super character ideas, and super universe?
I was recently told that, "..most of the problems with Space: 1999, series I and II are technical, but they have to be ignored seeing as the whole series is so absurd that you have to treat the series as fantasy..." --David Rowan.
Okay, Space: 1999 you're fantasy, but since Star Trek, you're the only science fiction series worth watching!
Christine McWilliams, Akron, OH 44320 (11/4/76)
This past summer I attended a fan convention called August party. I got to meet Nick Tate (Alan Carter) and got his autograph. He did a talk on Space and was a judge on the costume contest. He seemed highly impressed with our devotion, enthusiasm, and creative reactions to Star Trek. He said that he never knew anything like this existed. He wore his old uniform and even had a commlock and stun gun when he gave his talk. We also got to see a premiere of Space: 1999 Year II, that introduced Maya. I have been watching the show every Saturday night now. I am very impressed with the improvements such as the developing of the characters, giving them more emotion, and changes in the uniforms, sets, etc. I just wish they would ditch the pyrotechnics (too fake), get better guest stars that know the difference between acting and over-acting, get less outrageous costumes and make-up for the aliens, and try to get even better (more realistic or believable) scripts. I think they shouldn't have gotten rid of Victor. In my opinion the best actors are Nick Tate, Catherine Schell, and Tony Anholt.
I also like the fact that they're injecting a little humour into the characters and the scripts. I particularly enjoy the jibbing that Tony gets with regards to his home-made beer and its rating system. It does seem a bit contrived though.
Viv Stanley, Alberta/Canada (11/15/76)
Having not seen the first season's episodes, I can't say whether or not the show has improved, but I do know one thing for sure: I love it. I think it's great, interesting. I really enjoy it. One thing is wrong with it though: No Victor Bergman.
How, you may wonder, can that be? It's quite simple. I've read the some of the books based on the episodes and took a liking to Victor. He is great! Maybe sometime they could use Victor (Barry Morse) as a guest star but not necessarily as Victor (confusing, eh?)
All in all, it's a good science fiction/adventure series. I especially enjoy those little bits of humour in it, and Koenig's quips in "New Adam, New Eve".
Personally, I can't see any major (or minor for that matter) flaws in it. True, Bergman isn't there but Maya makes things interesting. As a Star Trekker too, I find it a little easier to understand than Star Trek, and that the Alphans relate to each other in a more human manner. Anyone else have any thoughts on this point?
Pam Beckett, Uniontown, PA 15401 (11/21/76)
Here are a few comments on some of the second season episodes... "The Metamorph" What can I say? The moment I heard. the new theme music I knew Year II was going to be smashing. I thought it was very wise to begin with the use of a "log"; it really helped to clear up some misconceptions. The new uniforms are quite attractive and really makes the ladies look better. Maya was introduced very completely; she's a welcome addition and contributes a lot to the overall appeal of the show. (Thank God she shows emotion! Can't you just imagine the Trekkies descending upon us?) But...Tony? Don't get me wrong, he's a nice guy and I like him but where did they find him? There's been no explanation for the "disappearance" of Victor, Kano, and Paul. (Did Tony just jump out of a crater one day? Did Victor's "One year guarantee" on his heart run out? Did Kano and Computer elope? Did Paul die of food poisoning from a cup of Sandra's coffee?) Seriously, a character of Tony's importance should have some background. Last, but not least, Alan did his usual wonderful job. Seems to me like he's the only Alphan with any spunk! Little devil!
"The Rules of Luton" -- I knew the minute I saw Tony flying the eagle that this was not going to be one of my favourites. Since when did the First Officer take over the duties of Eagle Captain? Anthony, get your rear back in Command Center and let Nick do the flying! At any rate, it was a bit like an old episode of Star Trek, but it was worth watching anyway. Lots of good background on John and Maya. Interesting to note that Maya can stay in her transformations for one hour. I thought her powers were unlimited. But, for heaven's sake lady, find another bird to turn into! I'm getting tired of that same old one! Not a spectacular episode, but a fascinating premise: plant life to be higher than animal life.
"Catacombs of the Moon" Where was ol' Alan? Putting eagles through the car wash? C'mon, good ol' Alan should have been in the middle of all those fights - you know how short-tempered he is. Otherwise I thought the actors that portrayed Patrick and Michelle were terrific. I always go for a good love story. Two questions: if the security room was off-limits to all personnel except Tony and security, how did Maya just happen to waltz in in that pretty gown just in time to chew up Osgood? Why didn't Dr. Mathias help Helena out? Out I know. He must have gone to be a witness for Kano and Computer!
"New Adam, New Eve" -- If I remember, Nick was in this one a little. What sticks out the most is watching the commander of Moonbase Alpha, the medical officer, the first officer, and the science officer act like four teenagers at a drive-in movie! Basically a good show. Wasn't Nick in it, or am I dreaming?
"The AB Chrysalis -- Where do I begin.....this is what I've been waiting so long for! About time for Alan to get some action. So far this has been my favourite episode. The whole episode was totally unique, the idea of people going into chrysalis to evolve is far-out. That creature Maya turned into was sort of different. 01 Alan blew his cool again; you know, he's not too smart at times. I mean, trying to keep that glass coffin from moving. Come now dear Captain! This episode was was as great an episode to have been seen twice in a row.
Mona Delitsky, Ann Arbor, MI 48104 (11/23/76)
I would like to talk about a dear old man we all once knew named Victor Bergman, but first a little about the changes from first to second season of Space: 1999.
The first season of 1999 had class. I mean really. It consisted of a bunch of very fine scientists and technicians working on Moonbase Alpha. People who, one would assume, were the cream of the crop in their fields. People who we could have confidence in. Koenig was brave, decisive, clear thinking individual and a very fine leader. He made mistakes at times like any human being but he was a leader who commanded respect from the people under him. Even too much respect at times. (Witness Alan's fierce devotion to Koenig in "The Missing Link" when the Commander was clearly to incapacitated to command anybody.) He was somebody I trusted to try to do the best for his people. A human, yet very admirable, intelligent Commander.
Victor Bergman was somebody whose brains I had complete faith in. Victor was a marvellous mixture of scientist and philosopher whose insights I appreciated and whose human kindness towards the other members on the base was really beautiful. Kano was a great character, classic in his devotion to his computer, his "friend". Sandra was a very together woman that I admired. Even Helena, who so many people found fault with, was definitely a very good doctor. In fact, there was not one person on Moonbase Alpha that I disliked, even though I liked some more than others. (I was not much of a fan of Alan Carter's; I had no strong feelings about him one way or the other, although this season, I do like him more and more, and I wish they'd use him more than they do silly Tony Verdeschi.) They were an intelligent on Alpha, with human foibles, but they were people I liked.
I enjoyed watching the first season episodes very much, even the bad ones, because even the bad ones would have one or two scenes that were really great even though the episode itself might not hold up. For example: in "The Guardian of Piri" which I consider the worst first season episode, there is one scene I always loved watching: when the servant of the guardian shows Koenig the image of Helena on the TV screen in Main Mission, Koenig, in his anger, runs up and smashes the screen. His hand is now badly cut and he is obviously in great pain (Landau was very convincing). When the servant offers to heal him, he says "No. Leave me with my pain. It reminds me that I'm human." Always liked that scene.
My favourite episodes from the first season (ones which were the most exciting or had the most character development) were "Breakaway", "Collision Course", "Black Sun", "The Missing Link", "Another Time, Another Place", "Voyageur's Return", and "War Games". These were seven that had some really marvellous science fiction concepts (particularly "Another Time, Another Place" and "Black Sun" which are usually heralded among sci-fi buffs as being the very best) or did much to expand our appreciation of the characters (the sequence in "Black Sun" where Koenig and Bergman get quietly drunk on brandy together and grow increasingly philosophical as the "end" approaches is excellent: or the bit in "Missing Link" where Alan fights to keep Koenig alive when everyone else was giving up really made me appreciate the character of Alan Carter much more; or the situation in "Voyageur's Return" when Bergman very much wants to save Voyageur's information tapes and Helena very much wants to insure the safety of Alpha; it was an interesting triad, much like the Kirk-Spock-McCoy triad, of opinions: Bergman thinks that they can take the risk of dealing with the Queller Drive and Helena thinks they can't. It is Koenig who makes the decision to try to cave the tapes and it was interesting to study the motives and clashing opinions of these characters. Really a very fine episode)
It is things like these which make me object to statements made last year that people couldn't relate to the characters on Alpha, or they didn't know enough about them.. This was usually because people might watch one episode of 1999 comparing it to Star Trek every minute and then reject the whole thing outright. It's sad because there were really so many good episodes that do hold up scientifically, or presented fascinating conjecture into phenomena not yet fully understood in physics (e.g. black holes, etc.), or developed the characters a lot. People were not analysing objectively. They compared it to Star Trek the whole time and didn't let it stand on its own. (Many Trekkies were threatened by a new science fiction show on TV and harboured prejudice is definitely not a part of the Star Trek philosophy.) I didn't feel I knew Captain Kirk or Doctor McCoy at all after watching one episode of Star Trek either.
Anyway, getting back to the changes, now we have an alien on our Moonbase, Maya. I, for one, absolutely did not like "The Metamorph" episode at all. On first watching, it seemed childish and unbelievable and too much like "Lost in Space" or a bad comic book in its plot about (what else but) a mad scientist. Also, Maya in that episode came off as some- what naive and not very bright, although since then, I think they've done some excellent things with her. In every episode since, she has become a character I like and can trust. She is obviously intelligent and capable of her duties as well as other things, and she has a good analytical mind as well as a sense of humour. And she's not snobbish about her abilities at all, too. Really a welcome member on the Moonbase.
Verdeschi, well, he can be alright too, although sometimes he comes off like something out of Marvel Comics in his courageous defiance of aliens etc. which never looks believable, anyway. I think they're doing very good things with Alan Carter this season and I'm really enjoying him tremendously, with his impulsive instincts and warm nature. Now Koenig, the character, seems to be a lot less exciting than he was last season. He's much more of a marsh- mellow now: if an alien makes so much as a nasty sneer towards Helena, he'll surrender his Moonbase immediately. I mean, what happened to our Fearless Leader? (Yes, I know; he's more human now, I guess they've taken some of his leadership away, maybe too much.) Helena was someone it took me the whole first season to like, but I finally did; she's more interesting this season, but apparently not as good a doctor as before; I don't know.
And hell, I miss Victor a lot. A lot. That marvellous scientific flavour to him is missing and the Command Center crew (I wish they hadn't changed the name; Main Mission had such a nice ring to it) doesn't seem as bright and intelligent overall without Victor. They seem to be relying on Maya's powers too much as a solution to their problems instead of using their own resources.
Anyway, they've shown 10 episodes here so far and there have been about four good ones: "Journey to Where" (excellent), "The Exiles" (unexpected ending with Helena solving the problem, which was nice), "The Mark or Archanon" (a few loose ends, but overall very good), and "The AB Chrysalis" (strange, very interesting plot with some nice science thrown in). I very much liked "The AB Chrysalis"; and "Journey to Where" stands out as the best so far with a good plot and even containing a kiss between John and Helena which was very natural and belonged there (he kissed her out of mutual pain and sadness) and was not contrived like in other episodes. Also, Bain gave a damn good performance in that episode, probably her best in the entire series, which was also pleasing. Yes, she can be good when she wants to be.
I mean, let's face it. I love "Space: 1999". And yet, I can recognize it's flaws as well as it's triumphs. I'm the first to say that episodes like "Brian the Brain" are simply terrible (I wanted to write a hate letter to inept Fred Freiberger when I saw that one). I'm pleased with some of the changes and annoyed by others. I got terribly impatient sitting through episodes that are unbelievable and stupid like "New Adam, New Eve" or "Brian the Brain", And yet they don't lessen my appreciation and enjoyment for the good episodes I've mentioned.
Because the series does have tremendous talent behind it. (Hot counting Fred Freiberger, the producer, who doesn't know the first thing about science fiction) Space: 1999 has: Martin Landau who can be fabulous; the man does have tremendous talent and can be brilliant and he has been, at times, in 1999; the collective integrity of Bain, Merton, Tate, Anholt, and Schell who are all at least competent if not fine actors, and the best special effects people in the business. Once they start getting some consistently good scripts, which still hasn't happened yet, they'll be quality all the time.
As for Victor Bergman. Oh, the man. I've seldom met a character in a TV show or book that I feel so much empathy for as Victor. There was a warmth to him that gave the whole setting a human quality, and that marvellous scientific manner with his Oxford-sounding British accent gave the show real class. I was a real Koenig fan in the first season, but I always was interested in seeing what Victor would do because he had a calm and a rationality that was pleasant to witness in the midst of an intense crisis on Alpha.....very refreshing. He was more into solving the problems than worrying intensely or acting impulsively. Also, his affection and concern for the other people on Alpha was very often expressed (for example in "Missing Link" when Victor is standing over the bed containing the unconscious Koenig who was badly hurt in an Eagle crash and he he says, sadly "why him? Why couldn't it have been me?"; also he was the most understanding of the "future" Alphans towards the "present" Koenig in "Another Time, Another Place"). So nice was his ability to appreciate the wonders of something alien when Koenig and the others were mainly concerned with its dangers. All in all, Victor was the greatest and I miss his presence in the show a great deal. It was a mistake to take him out of it.
Here's hoping that the Space: 1999 crew can come up with lots of good things for us in the future.
Carl Lamb, Mobile, AL 36605 (12/20/76)
"Space: 1999: The ultimate adventure series" so read the adverts. This was one of the major turn-offs for myself, and others. Before '99 had even started, I was dead-set against it. "The show to capture the hearts of Trekkies'" it was said. To a hardcore 'Trekker' this was blasphemy. I had made up my mind that '99 was going to be a bomb before I had seen it. Then, when '99 started here in Mobile in January, I decided to tape the first episodes, for posterity. I could always listen to it later, when I wanted a good laugh. This didn't turn out to be the case.
I was hooked the instant "Breakaway" started. From that moment on, I knew that I was destined to become involved in '99 fandom as soon as it cropped up. Well, I became involved, and where I am now. "Assistant-idiot-in-charge-of-a-little-bit-of-everything" so Chuck calls me, and so be it. It's just a title, of no value really. All it means is that I want to help him do ComLoC, i.e. just about do anything and everything I feel like, I'm to help promote, solicit contributions, spread fandom, etc. I hope of some help; if I weren't, then he'd surely kick me off the staff ((hmmm, I didn't even know we had a staff!--ED.)). But, anyway, I have a couple of things to say, which I'll try to say in a comprehensible manner, but no promises. Onward then...
To me, I am a first season fan, and will most likely remain so. To me second season is an utter disappointment. So much of what I loved in year one is lacking in year two, being replaced, or most often, not explained. Thore's an almost total lack of continuity between years one or two. For instance, most obvious are the disappearances of Prof. Victor Bergman, Controller Paul Morrow, and Computer Technician David Kano. What happened to them? More-so though, when did Tony Verdeschi come in? He must have been there all along, as Alpha doesn't get weekly cargo ships from Earth, bringing in new personnel.
Then we have the moonbase itself. All new, modified. Funny, last season I thought that they just barely had enough resources to sustain themselves, much less, to go and remodel Alpha, just because they didn't like what the last interior decorator apparently did. Even the moon seems to have regressed in time. In the year one episode of "Dragon's Domain" it was stated that it was the 877th day since the moon left the Earth's orbit. If that's so, how is it possible that in "The Metamorph", the first episode of year two, that it is the 342nd day since the moon left Earth's orbit, as this was the date given. Several other of the year two episodes also sport dates preceding that of "Dragon's Domain". I spot a definite inconsistency here. Are they deliberately trying to pretend that first season never existed, or is it a mere oversight on someone's part? I seem to believe the former; more evidence seems to point in that direction. Don't get me wrong, I don't hate the second season, but, in my opinion, the quality of the show was diminished. I still stick beside it though, because I feel that they could improve. The show still retains my respect and admiration, but on a first rather than second season basis.
I must admit that I was disappointed with The Making of Space: 1999. It, as the second season, ignored Morse, Hancock, and Jones. Though they may no longer be with the show, some of us out here still like them, and their professional biographies should have at least been included. Another point that bothers me, and I have noted this in other publications as well. Alan Carter is now being referred to as "First Lieutenant" whereas in year one he bore the rank of Captain. I have not heard the term "First Lieutenant" mentioned in an episode yet however. But, should it appear, I guarantee, that I, as well as other indignant Nick Tate fans will send a flood of angry letters to Fred Freiberger, or whoever is responsible. No matter what, he is still Captain in our book!
There are now ten '99 books, plus The Making of Space. 1999. Only six of those ten books contain adaptations or the episodes, the other four are original novels. Out of the six books, only 23 of the 24 episodes of first season were adapted. "Earthbound", being omitted, due to author: E. C. Tubb's killing of the character of Simmonds in the first story "Breakaway". I am somewhat saddened by this fact, as I felt "Earthbound" was one of the better first season episodes. As for the original novels however; after reading #10, I am somewhat puzzled. I do think that Mr. Rankine has showed a definite improvement over Android Planet. In Phoenix of Megaron, though, I feel that Alan falls in love with Rhoda somewhat too quickly, and moreover, now Rhoda is apparently living on Moonbase Alpha, with her to marry Alan soon no doubt. Very interesting. I thought that Maya was the moon's only resident alien. Will they kill her off in the next book, or ignore her as if she never exited?
Then there are trivial things..... In "New Adam, Now Eve", Maya, in her owl form, was seen sitting on Tony's arm, whom she could not touch without receiving a magnetic jolt. Also, in "The AB Chrysalis", why wasn't an eagle sent out from Moonbase to refuel John, Alan, and Maya's Eagle, as was done in "The Rules of Luton"? Then, in one episode, I'm not not sure which one at the moment, Eagle One was in two places at the same time. Highly unusual.
Reviews
COSMOCONNECTION #1; c/o Mona Delitsky; Ann Arbor. Method of reproduction: ditto and offset. 52 pages.
Cosmoconnection is a unique offering of both "Star Trek" and "Space: 1999" with a tiny bit of science fiction thrown in for good measure. To my knowledge. it is the only fanzine at present to offer both Star Trek and 1999 fiction. The major portion of this 'zine is made up of two '99 stories. The first was "Unshielded" by the editor, Ms. Delitsky. Alpha has entered a field of space which is causing madness among the Alphans. The problem is finally solved by Prof. Bergman. An intimate scene between Helena and John appears in this story, while John is under the influence of the field. The next story is "A Perfectly Reasonable Solution" by John Petty. Alpha is due to be destroyed, though unintentionally. The aliens behind it, do not consider the Alphans worth sparing, preferring to let them perish. To save Alpha, John, Helena, Victor, Alan, Paul, and Sandra must pass a test suited to the individual. They pass with the aliens willing to save Alpha. No final solution is present however, and the story tends to leave one hanging. There are a few minor flaws, one of the most noticeable being Alan Carter's use of his "metal belt buckle" to escape from his "test". For Star Trek, there is "A Different Way of Thinking", also by Ms. Delitsky. It concerns a new kind of "love" between McCoy and Natira. It originally appeared in Warped Space #13. There is a commentary on '99 by Sharon Ferraro (which originally appeared in Turnabout #1), an article on the editor's meeting of Leonard Nimoy after seeing the Sherlock Holmes play, some humorous stories, both Star Trek and Science fiction, and a '99 trivia quiz. There are three excellent illos by Marty Siegrist, of ST 'zine fame, as well as a beautiful cover by Rodney Allen, with some illos by Aaron McClellan scattered throughout. Cosmoconnection is worth having, and is sure to improve as time goes on. At present, I believe, contributions are still being accepted for issue #2. (reviewed by Carl Lamb)
ALPHA NEWSLETTER #5; c/o Steve Eramo; Stoneham, MA 02180; $1.00; method of reproduction: Xerox and ITEK-offset; 22 pages.
Issue #5 of Alpha Newsletter is a special, on Nick Tate (Alan Carter). Contained in it are transcriptions of Nick's speeches at August Party, his biography, and Alan Carter's biography, reviews of "The Devil's Playground" (movie), and "The Day After Tomorrow" (TV special), as well as several articles about Nick reprinted from several magazines. Also included are a list of Alan's "zaps", most liked lines, notable episodes, and an ad for an upcoming ST/99/UFO/SF con. There are four good xerox reproductions of photos of Nick, two from '99. Issue #6 will be a Landau and Bain special, and 47 an Anholt/Schell/Merton/Phillips special. To date, this is the best issue of Alpha Newsletter. Numbers 1-4 are hardly more than short reprints of articles discussing 99. This issue is a must for any Tate fan. you're interested, issues #1-4 may still be ordered for 75 each.) (reviewed by Carl Lamb)
AFTERWORDS #3: c/o Art & Story: Tollhouse, CA 9:667; 254; method of reproduction: professional publication; 6 pages.
This issue of Afterwords is a special Space: 1999 issue. Afterwords is the newsletter that is associated with the magazine Art & story, a SP/ fantasy oriented publication. This issue starts off with some news about the magazine itself and with some news about new books and publications. The bulk of the issue is then made up of Space: 1999 material consisting of a letter from one of the readers in which he voices his opinions on the show and how he feels the show's scientific information is researched well. This is followed up by a 4 page article entitled "Space: 1999-'The Metamorph' and the Metamorphoses". The article tells about the many changes that have taken place between first and second season and it reviews the the episode "The Metamorph". The article contains many good pictures from the episode "The Metamorph" and one or two pictures from first season. The cost of this newsletter and the contents make it well worth the quarter spent to get it. (reviewed by Chuck Raue) See here
THE EMPORIUM
THE LONER is a Space: 1999 novelette, written by Michael Heyes. It is a sort of "alternate universe" within the basic background of the series. The story concerns an unidentifiable object that defends Alpha against an alien attack. It was written as an attempt to correct some of the faults of the show, and to make use of the good points. Barring unforeseen problems, THE LONER will be available in January 1977. Approximately 60 pages mimeographed; with offset artwork by Mary Bloemker, H.C. Chmielefski, Marty Siegrist, and Jim Steele. Cost will be $2.75. Order from: Patrice Cullen; Mount Kisco, NY 10549. Although this a one-shot fanzine, a sequel will be planned if enough interest is shown.
COSMOCONNECTION is a new fanzine specializing in Space: 1999/Star Trek stories and information. We think Space: 1999 is an exciting new entry into science fiction and we want the talented people in science fiction and/or Star Trek fandom to get interested in Space: 1999 and work with this theme. Issue #1 is out now, and features 2 long Space: 1999 stories, commentary by S. Ferraro, 1999 trivia, two Trek items (one story and one review), some general science fiction, philosophy, etc. and fantastic artwork by Siegrist, McClellan, and others.
Issue #1 costs 80c, $1.30 with postage. Subscriptions are now $4/4 issues, $5.50 with postage. Written material concerning Space: 1999, Star Trek, other science fiction, astrobiology, space physics, fantasy, comic conjecture, or other things like that is needed and welcome for COSMOCONNECTION #2, hopefully to be out by January 1977. Art also welcome. Send submissions, subscriptions and single copy requests to: Mona Delitsky; Ann Arbor, MI 48104
ROBERT CAIN; Mesa, Arizona 85202 is selling full frame 35mm Space: 1999 slides. These slides are NOT taken off of the TV set. The slides are 55ยข each and he has 30 slides from first season and 14 from second season. He also has slides for sale from Star Trek and Lost in Space. For a complete list of what he has available write to the above address and include a SASE.
VOYAGEUR is a Space: 1999 fanzine specializing in '99 fiction. Contributions are being solicited for #1 at present. No publication date has yet been set. Stories and artwork are needed. For more information or to make a submission write to: VOYAGEUR; c/o Chuck Raue; Mobile, AL 36606.
ALPHAN ODYSSEY is a general Space: 1999 fanzine which is seeking contributions. For more information or to make a submission write to: Carl Lamb; Mobile, AL 36605.
Dear Fellow '99ers,
Hello there, hope you've all enjoyed this first issue of ComicC so far. I'm really sorry it's taken so long for me to get this thing out but in November my typewriter broke down, completely, and I couldn't get a-hold of another one in time so as to have ComLoC 1 out in November. Now I have gotten a new typewriter for Christmas so putting out Comloc on time from now on shouldn't cause so much trouble.
Now that I've finished my apology, I talk about some relevant matters. The first thing that needs to be discussed is the frequency at which this 'zine will be coming out. It'd be nice if this 'zine could be published every 4-6 weeks, but this can only be done if everyone takes the time to write in letters to bring up points to be discussed or if they take the time to respond to someone else's letter. Since I don't know how you all want to do this I'm going to set the tentative deadline for letters to be in to me January 23rd. I hope you will all find something in this issue that you'd like to respond to or that you've got something you'd like to discuss. This issue didn't bring up a lot of discussions. It is more like an issue in which everyone is letting everyone else know where they stand on certain '99 related points.
ComLoC is your 'zine, so I need to know what you'd like to see in I'd like for us to be able to have some illos inside the issues besides the artwork on the cover. Since ConLoC is printed by xerox I can only print art which doesn't contain large areas of black in it. This doesn't apply to art to be used on the cover since these are done by offset. Smaller pieces of filler artwork for the interior of ComLoC #2 that you'd like to submit are welcome. Cover art for #2 is also needed. While on the subject of artwork I'd like to thank Marty Siegrist. thanks for the beautiful piece she did of Victor for this issue, so..... again Marty!
If you want to get the next issue of ComfoC send me 25c and you'll get it when it comes out. ComLoC is printed free of charge so the only cost it incurs is that of postage to mail it out. This 25c covers the postage costs on your issue. If the printing method used for this 'zine doesn't give the nice clear reproduction that can be obtained by offset or by good mimeograph you must remember that this 'zine is printed free and that way the cost can be held down. I believe that holding the cost down to the point that it is affordable to all '99 fans is more important than being able to print on both sides of the paper. I hope that everyone else will agree.
Well, that's about all for now. I must get this thing to the printers so I can get it out before Christmas. Until then, have a merry Christmas and a happy New Year. Hope to hear from you all soon.
Fly like an Eagle,
The Space: 1992 Association of Fans (S.N.A.F.) is a new '99 fan club that The club prints a is seeking to find other '99 fans to join their ranks. bimonthly newsletter called EAGLE IN FLIGHT. For more information on S.N.A.P. write to: S.N.A.F.: Mobile, AL 36601
RICHARD ROBINSON is looking for someone to be the co-editor of his new Space: 1999 fanzine. Richard has a problem which is that he has seen only first season because the station in his area didn't carry second season. Richard is looking for someone who has knowledge about the second season. If you're interested in talking to Richard about this write him at: Dardanelle, Arkansas 72834
Space: 1999 copyright ITV Studios Global Entertainment
