I remember watching this years ago on the Disney Sunday Night Movie. Not only did it never re-run on network television, but Disney has for some unknown reason, never thought to release this on video or DVD. That is unfortunate, because it's a fun space frolic that has something for just about everyone: fairly good special effects, the ubiquitous "boy genius", Duncan Regehr in all his masculine glory, a rather thoughtful plot line, suspense, Duncan Regehr, cheesy fight scenes, a wonderful space ship, "lovable" bad guys and, of course, Duncan Regehr.
This premiered at the same time as "Star Trek: The Next Generation", which has gone into the annals of TV history as an SF classic, however, at that point most fans were already appalled and disgusted at the Wesley Crusher character being given so much screen time. (It seemed ridiculous that a ship manned by hundreds of intelligent, capable adults constantly needed the help of a preteen to save them from their weekly dilemmas.) On the other hand, "Earthstar Voyager" deals with the subject of precocious scientific youngsters in a believable, understandable way, therefore winning the interest of young and mature viewers alike. The fact that the ship is on a 40 year mission is a great plot device to introduce young crew members, who are being groomed to take over the helm of leadership half way through the voyage.
Over the years, I've thought often about this movie, especially after watching a disappointing major release like "Phantom Menace". It makes me appreciate the fact that Disney made such a worthwhile, fun movie with good characters and plot line on a well defined, yet modest (by Lucas standards) budget.
My friend taped "Earthstar Voyage" when it aired, but the tape was destroyed. Both of us wish we still had it. If anyone reading this has a copy, let me know!
This premiered at the same time as "Star Trek: The Next Generation", which has gone into the annals of TV history as an SF classic, however, at that point most fans were already appalled and disgusted at the Wesley Crusher character being given so much screen time. (It seemed ridiculous that a ship manned by hundreds of intelligent, capable adults constantly needed the help of a preteen to save them from their weekly dilemmas.) On the other hand, "Earthstar Voyager" deals with the subject of precocious scientific youngsters in a believable, understandable way, therefore winning the interest of young and mature viewers alike. The fact that the ship is on a 40 year mission is a great plot device to introduce young crew members, who are being groomed to take over the helm of leadership half way through the voyage.
Over the years, I've thought often about this movie, especially after watching a disappointing major release like "Phantom Menace". It makes me appreciate the fact that Disney made such a worthwhile, fun movie with good characters and plot line on a well defined, yet modest (by Lucas standards) budget.
My friend taped "Earthstar Voyage" when it aired, but the tape was destroyed. Both of us wish we still had it. If anyone reading this has a copy, let me know!