b_e3Kpi Reviews

Quantum Leap (1989–1993)

"Oooh Boy!"

[28 August 2004]

A highly imaginative idea from Donald P. Bellisario.

The selection of Scott Bakula and Dean Stockwell to play the roles of Sam (the quantum leaper) and Al (Sam's advice-giving & holographic guide) was spot on.

The story lines were great. The series consisted mainly of fictional plots, interspersed with the odd story based on real life events. In addition, the show's original signature tune was great!

The acting, especially from Scott and Dean, was first class. In fact, you don't need to be a sci-fi buff to enjoy Quantum Leap ........ a Bellisario masterpiece!

________ 9 out of 10! ________

Carl Giwa.

Land of the Giants (1968–1970)

2 women, 4 men, a boy and a dog in a strange world .....

[25 August 2004]

I first watched this Irwin Allen sci-fi series when it was shown in the late 80s on Channel 4 in the UK. I found it a lot more entertaining than Allen's other creations "Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea", "Lost in Space", etc.

Yes, the special effects and props used were basic, but this was obviously in line with what was available in 1968-70.

In my view, it was mostly the late Kurt Kasznar's acting that carried the series. Kurt played the role of Alexander Fitzhugh, one of the stranded Spindrift's passengers. He formed a close fatherly bond with Barry (played by child actor Stefan Arngrim), the youngest member of the stranded group. Fitzhugh was seldom co-operative with other members of the party. He loved his wisecracks, was always hungry, and was rather selfish. He was understandably desperate to return to Earth, but with or without the others (including Barry!).

It was quite obvious that actors Gary Conway, Don Marshall, and some of the others performed most, if not all, of their own stunts. This provided a touch more realism to the series.

I'll always remember guest star Michael Ansara's evil laugh in the episode "On a clear night you can see Earth". I watched the whole series again when it was rerun on BSkyB's sci-fi channel. Excellent entertainment for all age groups!

My rating : 8.5 out of 10!