Catacombs Reference Library
Trade Press
Year 2

Review from unknown trade paper (similar to Variety reviews, but this has a full author credit)

Space: 1999 Year 2

KHJ, Sept. 25, 7-8 p.m.

The first new episode of the second season of Space: 1999 leaves no doubt that the series is now under the control of producer Fred Freiberger. Although it is still not Star Trek, the episode bears little resemblance to any of the first season's shows.

The new character of Maya played by Catherine Schell, is a copy of the Spock character, complete with pointed eyebrows and sideburns. Maya is an alien capable of changing herself into any object. During the course of the show she becomes a lion, a panther, a dove, a wolf and an orange bush.

This gimmick allows for interesting story possibilities, but it could become ridiculous if over-used. The new music score and opening titles are more appropriate in establishing the mood of the show. The antiseptic look of the first season seems to have changed, with warmer colors used in sets and costumes.

The script by Johnny Byrne is tighter and has good pacing. The special effects by Brian Johnson are also good. This time he destroys a whole planet in order to introduce the Maya character.

Newcomer Tony Anholt, with strong youth appeal, replacing Barry Morse, could become a hit on the series.

Director Charles Crichton has even managed to extract more emotion from Martin Landau and Barbara Bain and the supporting British cast.

In all, ITC seems to have achieved its objectives by turning the series from a near first-season failure into a well-produced science fiction series. Production executive is Reg Hill.

Paul C. Miles

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Space: 1999 copyright ITV