Top Space Opera Movies

[@marSLaZZ66]

I saw Star Crash, Battle beyond the Stars, and Flash Gordon in theatre back then and they're still a pleasure to watch.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That is awesome. I only saw Flash Gordon at the theater. But I would love to see Starcrash and Battle on the Big screen. I can just imagine that fantastic Battle theme music in surround sound.

[@YandereShiki]

I love Flash Gordon. Seen it five times and sanged the background music everytime something happens.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

As you should. Ever seen the anime Big O? If not, look up its theme song.

[@YandereShiki]

@@AtomicSnackBar I've seen it too

[@PuncherOfAbs]

@@YandereShiki for some reason it feels like an adaptation of a stage shoe or musical

[@rlgood]

Every time I watch Flash Gordon I view it as a 2 hour rock opera by Queen. No other band could have scored that movie.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

It is a killer soundtrack for an incredible looking film. One I should probably pick up. Their Highland music is great as well. Thanks for watching, Ron.

[@Strideo1]

Nice video! All of these movies were made back in the days when almost everything you saw on screen was made by human hands from the props and costumes to the spaceship models and robots and monsters. Even when the effect wasn't perfect there's still something fascinating and so satisfying to watch when movies were made this way.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

100% agreed, Strideo. I tend to like even the worst practical effects better than CG. And I really like stop motion. Give me a Harryhausen effect any day. Or a rubber suited monster over some CG mess. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge.

[@winslow-eh5kv]

No, not entirely. They had OPTICAL methods too back then. They just weren't COMPUTER SIMULATIONS like all of them are in movies of TODAY.

[@henryeason9572]

No CGI or CAD...handmade like a Harryhausen movie! ❤

[@darkstarZ74]

Danilo Donati who designed the costumes and sets for Flash Gordon did the same for many other trippy movies such as Romeo and Juliet, Fellini Satyricon, Decameron, Fellini Casanova, Caligula, Red Sonia even.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Then I must say, he did some good work. Flash Gordon impresses me every time I see it. Thanks for watching, Travis.

[@RSEFX]

I SPENT 15 MONTHS WORKING ON "BATTLE BYOND THE SUN"...tho I'm not sure it's anything to brag about. I created quite a few models, and many effects shots. It was fun to work on (tho INCREDIBLY strenuous! due to the low low budget and difficult working conditions). Regardless, I'm kind of tickled that anyone remembers this film AND cares for it! I thought for sure PLANET OF THE VAMPIRES might wind up on this list, but it may be too much before your time. Same ROBINSON CRUSOE ON MARS. Thanks for the video!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Robinson Crusoe on Mars is one of my all time favorite films. I even covered it on my Top 1960s Sci-fi Movies episode. I first caught it as a kid on cable and it just captured my imagination. It may be what got me into sci-fi beyond Star Wars. Planet of the Vampires is one I've heard much about, but haven't gotten around to watching. Other than Hercules in the Haunted World, I haven't dug too deeply into Bava's work. And that is pretty awesome you worked on Battle. That's a highly underrated movie. And that theme music? Perfection.

[@mizukarate]

Happy I found this channel.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Good to have you here at the Lounge. Stop by anytime.

[@horrorhands666]

Ashamed to say, I’ve never seen any of these. I like the Akira connection in Battle Beyond The Stars. Starcrash looks cool, I met Caroline Munro a few years ago and she was really friendly

[@AtomicSnackBar]

You have brought shame upon the House of Hands. Now you have to fight an alien invader to make up for it.

[@tonysantiago255]

You met Caroline Munro?! You Have to see her as Stella Star in Starcrash. She will make you blow a vaporator! 😶😍 I've always heard she's really nice to fans too.

[@wimvanderstraeten6521]

09:17 The giant robot is a direct reference to Talos, the man of bronze (created by Ray Harryhausen) in Jason and The Argonauts.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Being what a fan Cozzi was of Harryhausen's work, and openly stating so, a direct homage certainly fits. Thanks for stopping by, Wim.

[@beyondz55]

That's fantastic! Talos is one of my favorite stop motion creatures of all time. Still looks so amazing to this day.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@beyondz55 I agree. I remember seeing a model kit in a catalog as a kit before I saw the actual film and thinking it was super cool.

[@shanegross9976]

For any interested there was a comic book prequel to "Battle Beyond The Stars", it's called "Battle Amongst The Stars".

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Consider me very interested. I've never talked about them on the channel, but I'm a big comic guy as well. So do tell, good sir.

[@shanegross9976]

It's about Zed's adventure when he piloted Nell. There's also a comic book prequel to "Earth vs The Flying Saucers" called simply enough "Flying Saucers vs The Earth", it focused on the aliens from the film.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

​@@shanegross9976 Is the Battle Amongst the Stars comic a more modern release? Or did it come out around the time of the film?

[@shanegross9976]

It's a miniseries released in 2010 set 30 years before the movie.

[@cuddlepaws4423]

In Flash Gordon you forgot the Hawkman played by Brian Blessed who is one of our UK National Treasures.... I saw this film years ago, and you saw everyone else then Brian Blessed, who filled the screen both in size and booming voice. He spends the entire film looking like he's having an absolute blast!! Bless him. He is still being asked to boom those famous words, 'Gordon's Alive??!!!' The thing is, Brian Blessed has no volume control. His voice is as big as he is. 😂😂😂😂

[@AtomicSnackBar]

No offense meant to the good Mr. Blessed. I usually don't go too deeply into the cast in these top list episodes. I save that for my standalone reviews. But I fully agree with you. He is one of the highlights of the film. And pretty much steals the show in every scene he's in.

[@Madmax-rz5hz]

​@@AtomicSnackBarBrian Blessed even steal the scenes when he dies commercials for floor cleaners!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@Madmax-rz5hz That's charisma, right there.

[@thatwhitegti]

Your 17th biggest fan here, great work again!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

17th biggest. I'll take it. Though I think places 5 through 16 are just cats in a trench coat.

[@darkstarZ74]

Robert Urich was Dan Tanna in the Charlie's Angels spin off VEGA$

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I didn't know Vegas was connected to Charlie's Angels. That's a neat piece of trivia.

[@NeoNorse]

Ice Pirates! Gotta re-watch that tonight! Seriously, where else can you watch a movie that takes the existential horror of the chest-burster from the "Alien" franchise and re-badges it as a "Space Herpes?" Flash Gordon (1980) I saw in it's theatrical release whilst out of town in Decorrah,Iowa. I left that theater wondering what just happened. It has grown on me since as the themes, the music and the comedy have really held up, much more so than the original B&W serial.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

But I mean, who hasn't had a case of the Space Herps at least once, am I right? The music really is a factor in Flash Gordon's charm, giving it an almost music video or music film feel at times. Something else I find unique, is it came out in 1980. Meaning it went into production in the 70s. Yet it feels like an 80s film mixed with a 60s film.

[@RedSiegfried]

What's a "space opera?" From what I understand it's kinda like a "horse opera," meaning an old stage production that is cheap as hell and melodramatic but they put a real horse out there on stage to make it stand out and get everyone's attention. In other words, a cheap and melodramatic space story with lots of flash and glitter to get your attention. And I love them in any form.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That's not too far off really. And the term did evolve from "horse opera." Though I wouldn't say cheap necessarily, but the rest is dead on. I was curious, and wikipedia lists it as "Space opera is a subgenre of science fiction that emphasizes space warfare, with use of melodramatic, risk-taking space adventures, relationships, and chivalric romance."

[@scottthomas3792]

I have seen all of these movies at the theater...the guy who sat behind me during " Battle Beyond The Stars" referred to the main starship as " The Space Uterus".....he sort of riffed the movie, which added to it. Starcrash is a prime example of " so bad, it's good"...

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Whereas I would politely disagree that anything about Starcrash is bad, it's neat you saw all these in the theater. I only got to see Flash Gordon and The Ice Pirates on the big screen.

[@CondosNkarens]

The oldschool commercial break sold me. Subscribed

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Glad to hear it. Welcome to the Snack Bar.

[@rodneyadderton1077]

I loved the 'Ice Pirates'. Saw that as a kid in the 80's. Lots of good memories. Love those commercials. Great video. New sub. All good picks.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I saw that one at the theater myself. And I guess it's just a matter of perspective, but I also remembering seeing it TV a lot. So it seemed like such a popular film. Odd that it's now a bit obscure. And great to hear. Thanks for stopping by, Rodney.

[@mikemahaffey9121]

Battle Beyond the Stars was one of my favorite space opera movies back in the day.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

It's a really good one even still. I got the bluray of it not long ago. And that title music is killer. As good as anything in big budget sci-fi.

[@jennifertochi6253]

Sterling I love and have seen all these movies. I love each and every one for what they are MAGIC. I am a sucker for Flash Gordon and Space Bandits especially. You evil genius dropping My Chauffeur in that video.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

If there is any opportunity to mention My Chauffeur on this channel it's getting mentioned. I would like to cover it in full one day as well. Just not sure it's really my audience.

[@davidabbott7270]

For of all the videos I've seen of yours which I can only say I've seen like five maybe this is the best list so far with the greatest selection of movies there's not one on here I cannot disagree with. And everyone I've seen at least five times.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I appreciate that. This was one of my favorite lists as well. With most of my lists, it's about a certain creature or character. So the movie itself isn't as much a factor. But here I focused on only the movies. And it was all movies I dig a whole lot. Thanks for watching, David.

[@arthurdotson9579]

LOL, among the cast of Ice Pirates, you could have mentioned Ron Pearlman stars as the ship's cook when he was younger.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

You know, I was about 99% positive I did mention that. But stuff slips by. I blame the drink. Thanks for stopping by, Arthur.

[@arthurdotson9579]

@@AtomicSnackBar Hey, it's cool, maybe I missed it if you did. I still loved the video, and you turned my attention to some films I've never seen before, just like you said. And thanks for that.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@arthurdotson9579 Oh, it is all gravy, good sir. I usually film these months in advance. So by the time they come out I often have no idea what I talked about. And I am always glad for little factoids I may have missed. Thanks again for stopping by. Do hope to hear from you again.

[@beyondz55]

Btw just rewatched Time Bandits with my daughter and she loved it. Totally a wacky classic imho. Love that film so much, RIP David Warner.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

It was a shame to hear about David Warner. He is one of my all time favorites. And my favorite Jack the Ripper at that.

[@beyondz55]

@@AtomicSnackBar i just saw From Beyond The Grave (Amicus Films) for the first time and it was great to see David act in a scene across from Peter Cushing. Love those films!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@beyondz55 Amicus was a great company and right there with Hammer in many ways. Their anthology films are second to none.

[@discobolos4227]

Superb channel! Oozes lots of character! :)

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Well, most excellent. I do appreciate that. I certainly try to make things a bit more fun.

[@discobolos4227]

@@AtomicSnackBar 👍

[@robertdee648]

As always, a great video, Slim. You totally achieve your objective of introducing your audience to little know movies. I'm amazed at the scope and detail you bring forth regarding so many less well-known movies. Your uncanny ability to tie commercials to the themes of your reviews is also admirable. The 1980 Flash Gordon is one of my all-time favorite movies. The theme song is great. I haven seen Star Crash, but it now on my watch list.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I think uncanny is a pretty good word to describe it. Especially since I get my info from a Ouija board. Thanks for watching, Dr. Dee.

[@robertdee648]

@@AtomicSnackBar My pleasure, Mr. Gray.

[@55Quirll]

It is a Caroline Munro Film, along with Captain Kronos-Vampire Hunter, At the Earth's Core, and the 7th Voyage of Sinbad. All worth having in your movie library.

[@charliebrownie4158]

There's also a sequel to Star crash and it's worth watching I love the I love the words that are dubbed into English from I guess French or Italian or whatever it was it's I love how they put the story together and then they even changed in mid movie to changing from what star crash was and who what the beginning of the sequel is like and then suddenly it changes into a different movie it's worth watching if nothing else I love watching and laughing at the different scenes that weren't set to be comedy but they become comedy because of them being poorly written poorly acted and probably edited that doesn't mean they're worthless it means they're they're fun movies to watch that's what that means.

[@georgesulea]

Firstly, just discovered your channel; LOVE IT!!! So much cool stuff! Secondly,you have referenced my childhood with all these wonderful films:) This makes me smile! 😁

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Very glad to be of service, George. That is basically what I do. Talk about my favorite things from childhood. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge. Hope to hear from you again.

[@fredblonder7850]

4:00: You named THE BLUE STAR and didn’t do the “Woooo Ahhhhhhh”.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I shall return to the Corner of Shame and think about what I've done.

[@HorrificNightmaresJM]

Great list Slim. I expected to hear you sing while floating. I'll have to give ice pirates another try, it was too goofy for me. Battle Beyond the stars is a really fun movie. I still need to pick up Galaxina, i saw parts of it when I was really young. My dad took me to see Flash Gordon when I was a kid, still love it to this day. Starcrash is a recent watch based on your recommendation. Needless to say you got me again by introducing me to a awesome movie.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Well, I didn't sing, but I was floating the entire time I filmed the episode. But since I kept hitting the ceiling, I duct taped myself to the chair. The things I do for the channel. If you can find Galaxina, it's a tricky one, it is well worth the effort. Thanks for stopping by the space station, J-Man.

[@martykarr7058]

Robert Vaughn's character was practically the same from "The Magnificent Seven" and most of his dialog, except for the SF references was the same.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

You know, I've only seen "The Magnificent Seven" once many years ago. I'm far more familiar with Battle. I didn't realize the homage was quite that homagey.

[@martykarr7058]

@@AtomicSnackBar It's like the movie "Airplane!" which not only was a parody of the movie "Zero Hour" but also used most of the original movie's dialog.

[@Munchausen70]

Muy bueno, algunas no las vi,a sí que las buscarte´. Si no la viste te recomiedo "Message from Space", japonesa de 1978.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

"Message from Space" es genial. Gracias por ver.

[@derek9063]

This was great! Thanks for this

[@AtomicSnackBar]

My pleasure, Derek. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge.

[@paulbowler5345]

So many of my faves in this one, especially Battle Beyond the Stars, Flash Gorden and Star Crash! 😀

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Great minds get launched out into space alike.

[@FeverDreamlandTheater]

Wonderful vid Rob. Aside from your robot vids, I love when you do a rundown of personal favs like this. I loved Ice Pirates when I was a kid, what a fun trippy movie....the bit in the end when time speeds up and everyone ages always stuck with me. Man I really have to give that a rewatch. Flash Gordon is the BEST. I recall that when I caught that on TV I confused it with Star Wars. But that makes sense considering the ties you noted and the serial was an inspiration for George Lucas. Galaxina slipped through though the cracks, did not know about that one, but that's why I dig this channel. Have a good weekend & stay wacky brother. 😁

[@AtomicSnackBar]

These top list episodes are some of my favorites as well, and easily my most popular. They are just so labor intensive, I can only handle one a month. But knowing how much you put into yours, I'm sure you can relate and then some. Galaxina is oddly obscure. I really don't know why. It has a lot to offer. And when it finally came out on bluray it quickly went out of print. Thanks as always for watching, pal.

[@vpower962]

Great review with fabulous behind-the-scenes facts. You can get much better than movies such as Battle Beyond the Stars, Flash Gorden and Star Crash--especially Flash Gordon

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Well, he is the Defender of the Universe after all.

[@srebrenkozhtomir]

I just KNEW you would mention Battle Beyond The Stars!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

A must see space opera in my book. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge.

[@larrydsAquatics]

Great job brother those are all wonderfully fun movies.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That sums it up quite well, Mr. D.

[@jasonellis9550]

Great reviews! I'm hooked on your channel man 😜

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That's great to hear and it's great to have you. And I always appreciate when folks go back and watch older episodes.

[@scottcleaves1040]

The beach scene with the giant robot was filmed on the same beach that they filmed the Talos scene from Jason And The Argonauts. The director supposidly made this movie as an Aamogh to Sci-Fi movies he loved. This is going from what I've heard about the movie. I love it and have it on DVD.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That I didn't know. But with how much Cozzi liked the Harryhausen stuff, it makes a lot of sense. Especially considering he originally wanted Starcrash to be a Sinbad in space film. Thus his casting of Munro. Thanks for watching, Scott.

[@beyondz55]

Awesome video as always. Thank you! Do you think David Lynch's Dune qualifies as a Space Opera? If so, that'd be one of my favorites too.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Yeah, I think an argument could be made for Dune's inclusion in Space Opera. Thanks for watching, Chrono. Always good to hear from you.

[@Skaramine]

Battle Beyond the Stars is a favorite. The first meeting of Hannibal Smith and Hunt Stockwell. Seriously, love Cowboy. Galaxina looks like such good fun. Flash Gordon is my absolute favorite movie ever. In my last Executioner novel, I used the Ajax crashing into Ming's palace as a set piece (a fishing boat named Ajax smashing into an island dock). Star Crash is another great classic, with the greatest Jedi, Marjoe Gortner.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Well, you just keep adding on the interesting here. So, you are a writer as well?

[@VeridianHerald]

So many lovely flashbacks. The theme song from Flash Gordon is still a very fun bit of music. On the very off chance that you also swing a controller and possibly played the Mega Man series, there is a rock opera band called Protomen who did a very nice Queen tribute collection. Speaking of music, thank you for the suggestions on the Korean bands. The feel of the music is definitely familiar also, hearing spoken Han-gul has helped spark a few more memories. As for Ice Pirates in specific, I loved the blending of post apocalypse and space opera. Also, as a current California resident, the idea of a water based currency isn't even vaguely the fantasy it once was. Life imitates art. Ah, Miss Shear, USA Up all night. A moment of silence for Gilbert Gottfried. Space Opera and Westerns are such a natural blending given the emphasis on the frontier and that special mix of being both claustrophobic and agoraphobic. Oh, and deep Gratitude for the reminder about the Lou Ferrigno Hercules. Also, Sybil Danning did quite a bit in the SciFi/Fantasy genre from the 70s and 80s didn't she? Again, lovely video and gratitude for the continual reconstruction of my past.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Always glad to be of service, my fine feathered herald. I do happen to be quite the control slinger, and a Mega Man fan, and a Proto Man fan. So I looked up the Protomen. That is a pretty dead on cover of Bohemian Rhapsody. I either didn't realize, or forgot, you were in CA. I was there for 15 years myself. But mentioning water, I assume you are in one of the dryer portions? I always liked the high desert. Space Opera and Western do go hand in hand. And you're right, it's that emphasis on frontier. And though light hearted Space Opera is my preferred choice, it would have been great to see someone like Sergio Leone do one in his style. Sybil Danning is kind of an unsung hero in genre film. If for nothing else, Battle Beyond the Stars. I saw they did a limited action figure from the film not too long ago. Was kinda neat. Thanks for stopping by the space station, good sir.

[@VeridianHerald]

If you listen to more Protomen, but don't have the time/inclination to take both main acts in a go, I strongly suggest The Hounds. It's an excellent villain anthem. I think rock opera may be tragically under represented. Chronologically, Act 1 happens many years after Act 2, but so many good stories start in the middle. While it's a bit more mainstream, did you enjoy Space Balls? It's light hearted, but it's more of a parody than it's own stand alone. In regards to freeze dried noodle Space Operas, it's almost the missing point of the Tri-Force of Westerns and Chanbara. Firefly would later tear the lampshade off on the Western side, to my knowledge, many of the examples of Space Samurai Theatre were of an animated nature. Altho arguably, Star Wars itself occupies a space somewhere between sukiyaki and wuxia in sub genre. As for California... From your podcast I recall you mentioned spending time down in Hollywood, it's definitely it's own animal, and in many ways I think you might have gotten to see the last of the best of it. On a personal level, I live on the coast, which is one of the reasons that the water crisis is so frustrating. Big ole can of worms there. If you ever swing back by on the central coast, let me know, I'd love to take you to the Museum I'm associated with and the Cetacean Institute I volunteer for. George and Gracie have long since moved on, but we have Otters. Maybe take a stacks dive at Amoeba Records if they survived the Pandemic.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@VeridianHerald I know for some reason the media rags on rock opera and concept albums, but I'm a fan. Cannot count the amount of times I've listen to the Crimson Idol by WASP. Or heck, the group Loona, which their entire group is the most elaborate concept I have ever run across. Space Balls is exactly what you said. A bit of light hearted fun. I do though think it was either a little too late or a lot too early. Had it come out closer to the actual Star Wars films, I think it would have made a big impact. And you are right again about the lack of space themed chanbara. There are the elements you mentioned, but a straight forward samurai in space type picture would be something to behold. Not sure I'll ever hit the west coast again, but if I do, I do appreciate the offer. I've gotten where I just can't standing flying.

[@whyherewhynow7418]

"Liked" as soon as you said Ice Pirates. "Pretend it happened, or it will." But these are all great films! And a mention of the Star Frontiers game; man, I (vaguely!) remember playing that in the lunch room in high school!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Star Frontiers had such a great look and feel to it. That Larry Elmore piece is one of the most iconic images in classic TTRPGs for me. It just perfectly sums up sci-fi RPGs of the time.

[@Slasheruprising]

I have always been curious about Ice Pirates. There’s no telling how many times I have passed on that one over the years. It looks and sounds great base off the clips and what you had to say. Have you seen the super cool Shot! Factory Steelbook Blu-ray release for Battle Beyond The Stars? I have considered picking that one up. I probably will the next time I catch it on sale. That mask with the light up features in Galaxina is fantastic. That alone makes Galaxina a must watch in my opinion. Could you imagine if Kurt Russell had took on the role of Flash Gordon? Talk about some fantasy casting. On a side note I actually grew up liking Mac And Me. I didn’t realize it was so hated until I grew up and got more familiar with the internet world. Anyway this was another fantastic episode. I highly enjoyed it. Definitely a good reference point for things to add to my ever growing movie collection.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Ice Pirates is easily the silliest Space Opera I have ever seen. It's a lot of fun. Most people kind of lean to Space Balls as the high water mark for Space Opera comedy, but I think Ice Pirates is the better of the two. And yes sir. I have indeed seen that steelbook. I have it on my list actually. I don't own any steelbooks, not sure what the deal with them is exactly, but it's such a good price and looks really neat in the pictures. I imagine Kurt Russell in every good role. So not too tough for me. Thanks as always for watching, pal. And if you can't find Galaxina, let me know.

[@Slasheruprising]

@@AtomicSnackBar I’m a pretty big fan of Space Balls so I you are saying Ice Pirates is on that level or better than it’s a must see. I actually have my eye on a copy of Galaxina on EBay right now. It looks like it’s widely available.

[@Gappasaurus]

0:26 “I like to turn people on.” - RSSG; August, 2022 I _KNEW_ it! You and Robert Palmer must be in cahoots, even though he’s all like “I didn’t _mean_ to turn you on!” 🙄 Edit: “one of the most beloved sci-fi films of all time, _Mac & Me”_ elicited an actual guffaw out of me, and i NEVER guffaw 😄

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Yes, indeed. Opposite cahoots. Cahootses? Cahootsi? Might as well face it.....you're addicted to Spuds. And I'm glad your beloved, cherished memories of Stewart Raffill's beloved, cherished alien invasion/coke commercial Mac and Me brought you such joy.

[@Gappasaurus]

@@AtomicSnackBar I believe “cahootseeeeees” is the accepted spelling 🤔 And oh man, i don’t think i’ve heard “Addicted to Spuds” since i saw Weird Al live in… 2011 i think? 😅 And don’t forget the extended McDonald’s commercial posing as a Mac & Me set piece 🙄

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@Gappasaurus Hats off to you, sir, for catching that reference. I knew, if anyone would, it would be you.

[@Gappasaurus]

@@AtomicSnackBar Lol, never let it be said that a lifetime of random trivial experiences doesn’t come in handy sometimes 😄

[@williamestes629]

The only movie I haven't seen from this list is Star Crash and now I have something else to look out for.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

It's a ton of fun. And luckily, still readily available on DVD, Bluray, and it's even streaming on Tubi. Do let me know if/when you take gander. Thanks, William.

[@wetdog1606]

Love all these films but I haven't seen Galaxina - will rectify that soon. I would also recommend Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone - top film with Molly Ringworm - sorry wold - and Micheal Ironside in his finest acting role. I saw Battle Beyond the Stars at the cinema - and, as a young lad, really liked Sybyl Danning's character - but wasn't sure why. As an adult - I know that it is because of her great acting. Another great show.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Spacehunter is a good one indeed. And it almost made the list. There was some heated debate...amongst myself.....between that one, Ice Pirates, and Message from Space. In the end, for various clandestine reasons, I went with Ice Pirates. As to Galaxina, it is out of print and rather hard to find these days. So if you have trouble finding it, let me know. I may be able to help a wee bit.

[@wetdog1606]

@@AtomicSnackBar Many thanks but it is sometimes on Amazon Prime - so I should be able to watch on there. Ice Pirates is very worthy of it's prestigious place. I was always surprised that it was not more widely known.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@wetdog1606 I saw Ice Pirates at the theater. Twice I want to say. So I as well find it odd that the film has become somewhat obscure.

[@fatdog1963rb]

Ace films those I love stop motion when it's well done! Sorry but Denise Crosby was tasha yar. Mary had a part in automan, Dick Turpin, the fall guy, cover up deep space 9 just to name a few.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

This is indeed true, good Mr. Blackmoor. Mary was the real life aunt of Denise Crosby, thus the joke about their relation. I just always call Denise Crosby Tasha/Natasha Yar. It's a kind of not funny running joke on the channel.

[@fatdog1963rb]

@@AtomicSnackBar Brian Blessed the man was made to be voltan did you know he's grampy rabbit in pepper pig 🐖

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@fatdog1963rb I did not know that actually. But he is quite the character. I remember him being rather entertaining in that Sam Jones/Flash documentary from a few years back.

[@papatinpan]

I have always thought Battle Beyond The Stars was underrated. Galaxina was a favorite among drive-in/midnight movie venues

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Agreed in full. It seems like anything that came out in the wake of Star Wars gets labeled a knock-off and doesn't get the respect it should. Sure, many of these films were made to cash in, but that's very different than being a knock-off.

[@ingridfong-daley5899]

It's that killer Queen soundtrack that makes Flash Gordon so next-level awesome.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That certainly doesn't hurt. A treat for the eyes and the ears. Thanks for stopping by, Ingrid.

[@henrya3530]

All very splendid films that I have greatly enjoyed watching more than once. I would respectfully suggest "Spacehunter: Adventures in the Forbidden Zone" is also worthy of your consideration.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Spacehunter is a really good one and almost made the list too. Just barely missed it. But if I ever do a sequel episode it will definitely be on there. And if you have any other suggestions, I would be glad to hear them. I'm always on the prowl for space opera.

[@geofftimm2291]

I find it disturbing that I have watch all of these.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

If by disturbing you mean awesome, then yes, I agree fully. Thanks for watching, Geoff.

[@AlliAsAlways]

Ah, space operas. Aliens always have the most lovely baritone.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

It's all thanks to having two heads.

[@andreworr4307]

Loved ice pirates,lol still laugh when i think of the robot kicking the dude over and over. Couldnt take john boy seriuosly in bbts though enjoyed the movie. Forgot about galaxina,in its day flash gordon was great,also got a soft spot for flesh gordon ,lol,"flexi jerkoff"hahaha,ill have to find starcrash though must have missed it somehow ? Ps.galaxy of terror was another i liked

[@AtomicSnackBar]

My hat off to you, Andrew. You are the first person that caught, or at least mentioned, the John Boy reference. Flesh Gordon has its moments for sure. I always enjoy a good stop motion monster. Which, if I am not mistaken, was voiced by Craig T. Nelson. As to Starcrash, it's streaming on both Tubi and Amazon Prime at the moment. And if you just wanted more info, I talked a bit about it in my Top 70s Sci-fi Robots episode as well. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge.

[@andreworr4307]

@@AtomicSnackBar thanks man,first time ive seen your channel but ill be back,stop motion "penisaurases" lol,strange memories ,hahaha

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@andreworr4307 You and saurases of all kinds are welcome here at the Lounge.

[@shawnlewis1867]

All great movies, I like them all.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

You are a person of fine taste, Shawn. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge.

[@MichaelChavez-wf1yf]

I worked on Ice Pirates!! Wardrobe Dept.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That is what the dictionary refers to as "awesome". Very cool. And such an underrated film. Any neat Ice Pirate memories you care to share?

[@lindaloe]

Flash Gordon And Ice Pirates Are Both Great 😂!!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I always tend to lean to the light hearted, fun sci-fi. Being colorful is always a perk as well. Thanks, Linda.

[@APB316]

Interesting list , I did watch Star Crash on T.V. Years ago , I did get to see Flash Gordon at the cinema , it was. fun and the soundtrack is phenomenal. I’ll have to check obscure Director George Lucas.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I don't think Lucas is your cup of tea. I know you don't go in for all that stuff blowing up kind of stuff.

[@tonysantiago255]

Great list- of course. And a fun topic. You've convinced me to give Ice Pirates a second look. I would be hard pressed to choose which I like more: Battle Beyond the Stars and Starcrash.🤔 Both feature a ample supply of... Ample.😉 Take that KZbin censors. But no shot of Sybil Danning? Ah, Caroline. 😘 Oops. Here come the censors again. And the movies are fun too. Bond. James Von Bond. Galaxina deserves a second chance as well, you salesman you. I've seen the '94 Fantastic Four movie more times than I can remember, but the effects are not as good as any Corman stolen shots from his endless repertoire. So, I don't know where he hid them.Thanks as always for all the trivia and background tidbits. Oh, I think you have your Crosbys confused. One blonde. One Brunette. But both from the same family tree. Der Bingle!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

A point for Team Santiago. The battle wages on. The day is yours. But who will win the final battle? You do pose an excellent question there. Battle vs Starcrash. And I would say, if we are simply talking story, I would have to go Battle. But Starcrash wins with excellent aesthetics and a better lead. And of course Elle. Elle would have made most anything better. As to the Crosby debate. Mary was Denise's real life aunt. Thus the joke there about her being Tasha Yar's aunt. I just never called Denise by her actual name. It's a not funny recurring joke on the channel.

[@tonysantiago255]

And I most heartally (?) agree. Stella and Elle take it for better characters and best casting.

[@tonysantiago255]

Sybil DANNING. Spellchecker $U¢×××!!! Figure that one out algorithm.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@tonysantiago255 "Heartedly" perhaps?

[@tonysantiago255]

"I concur." - Catch Me if You Can. Best Bit Award.

[@sirdarklust]

I'm not a big science fiction fan, but I would make Barbarela my #1. Take it easy.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

A fine choice. Especially since it is actually my true #1. Thanks for watching, good sir.

[@garycarter5031]

been having a hard time finding ice pirates all the others I watch a lot I need my space herpes fix

[@AtomicSnackBar]

For awhile it was streaming on Amazon Prime. But at the moment, I couldn't find it anywhere. But I did just see that the bluray and DVD are quite reasonable on Amazon. If you are a physical media person.

[@interwebkaiju]

Thank goodness Caroline Munro and that wonderful costume were included. Great list.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I couldn't resist. I think I have a Starcrash in Top Lists problem.

[@JT-cp1pj]

Ice Pirates!!!! Yes!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

A favorite of mine from childhood. Saw it at the theater even.

[@TheCyborgTrucker]

I would have loved for Ice Pirates to be more successful and to become a trilogy

[@AtomicSnackBar]

That would have been great. Or at very least a sequel. I feel the same way about "Battle Beyond the Stars" and "Starcrash."

[@fredricclack7137]

Oblivion (II)!

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I quite like those. I talked a bit about the first one in my Top Weird West video from a few weeks ago.

[@garycarter5031]

I can't believe that there are people who haven't seen these movies I have seen all but one and don't understand how you can claim to be a sci-fi nerd and not seen forbidden planet so great job love the list but I would have put flash first

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Forbidden Planet is one of the pinnacles of sci-fi for sure. My Robby figure is one of my favorites in my display case. I've discussed it a few times here on the channel. And objectively speaking, you are quite correct, Flash would have been number one. But I always try to balance these list shows between the films themselves and my person nostalgia towards them. Nostalgia usually wins. Thanks for stopping by the Lounge, Gary.

[@jamesmcconnon8923]

Battle beyond the stars is the best version of the 7 samurai, period.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Hear, hear. And agreed.

[@Sarah-ok6xq]

For the wacky algo

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Here here.

[@kallianpublico7517]

They don't make 'em like that anymore. Westerns? Samurai? Hot chicks in slinky outfits? Heroes with a little bit of larceny? What about any of those references would kids growing up today know anything about? Millenial sci-fi? I wouldn't know what to put in it, Fortnite references, Roblox, a soundtrack by Doja Cat featuring "knucklehead"? I dont know. I'm stumped. It might be entertaining though. Caroline Munro 😍😍😍

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Less and less I would say, especially with Star Wars trying to retcon just how much of a scamp Han Solo actually was. I suppose though that sort of thing is still alive and well in anime and manga. And manga is absolutely dominating the American comic industry right now. So maybe there is hope. And you certainly got me with the millennial sci-fi. I've retreated so far into the past now, I think fantasy films are the only modern movies I really watch anymore. But hey, we'll always have our sci-fi themed Doja Cat album. Thanks for watching, Kallian.

[@pathevermore3683]

Battle beyond the stars has an excellent rrmake on Netflix, rebel moon.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I take it the two are pretty similar then?

[@pathevermore3683]

@AtomicSnackBar mostly in plot. Both movies start with the idea of "STAR WARS but adapting seven samurai instead of the hidden fortress".

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@pathevermore3683 I saw Hidden Fortress for the first time not too long ago. I quite enjoyed that one.

[@thomasdearment3214]

I know I saw Galaxina for the first time and said this is funny everyone thought I was nuts but I don't care it still holds I get a chuckle watching it, FLASH Fellini that would have been fun than again yes, I admit it I also liked Barbarella

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I forget what I said in the video, but Barbarella is one of my favorite sci-fi films. It pretty much has everything I could want in a movie. I do so wish they had made some sequels.

[@thomasdearment3214]

@@AtomicSnackBarsequels that would have been awesome, I also think they made Flash with a campy tone on purpose, the tone of the movie was just right, have you ever seen Flesh Gorden a little racy nudie but none the less a real parody gem of a movie, the creature effect amazing

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@thomasdearment3214 I have indeed. And fun fact, the voice of the creature was Craig T. Nelson.

[@Me4-gc8qs]

This is why Peppard was so cheap for the A-Team.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

A steal at any price.

[@ICE9RLN0]

the dino would have just been to muc

[@AtomicSnackBar]

But a dino makes everything better.

[@daxbashir6232]

💖 💖 💖

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I thank you much.

[@aleistercrowley7549]

You have a 'thing' for Caroline Munro, don'tcha dude?

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Name sounds familiar. . .

[@Jerry-t2l]

Space hunter???? Krull ????

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Krull was featured in one of my sword & sorcery episodes. Haven't gotten to Space Hunter yet. But one of these days.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

I think Ice pirates with someone inspired by The truckers in space Schlick from the original alien. I think there was a series. Called truckers in space

[@PuncherOfAbs]

I love in the swat wars commercial the music is trying very hard to capture starwars and disco at the same time I once thought of doing a vid of all the buzz words from each decade and list 5 movies that went out of there way to capture it. Mac and me being 1 pic in the 80s lol

[@AtomicSnackBar]

They even released a Star Wars disco album. I always meant to pick that up, but never got around to it.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

Have his done a nature gone bad list.... I can’t remember

[@AtomicSnackBar]

I sure haven't. But some of those are sci-fi enough that they would fit here on the channel.

[@jaceskunky]

our lists are nearly identical in 1980 my parents were going through an ugly divorce and my uncle took me to see flash. It changed my world. I had been watching the cartoon with the lizard girls in it and drawing them but after the live action movie I started drawing them with the strange groovy sexy clothing this movie was famous for. and since then cool clothing was part of my art gig.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Talk about some nostalgia there. I never saw the cartoon. It aired when I was too small to really watch it. But the figures managed to hang around for a long time after. I remember being fascinated by the lizard woman figure. And oddly, an older female cousin tried to talk me out of buying the figure cause it was a girl. I did not listen. Thanks for watching, Brian. Always good to hear from you.

[@jaceskunky]

I had those figures one of my girls was piloting my tie fighter >8) I love how in the cartoon Ming the merciless had the same voice actor as skeletor >8)@@AtomicSnackBar

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@jaceskunky Ah, Alan Oppenheimer. I didn't realize that. Interestingly too, he was also the voice of the main villain on Blackstar, which was a pre-cursor to Masters of the Universe.

[@jaceskunky]

@@AtomicSnackBar another favorite cartoon along with pirates of dark water

[@AtomicSnackBar]

@@jaceskunky I was all about some Pirates of Dark Water as a lad. I even had the pirate ship they released.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

Forever in yamoto in Galaxy Xpress

[@PuncherOfAbs]

Are there any Frank frizetta paintings of Caroline Munro?

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Not that I know of, but that would have been glorious.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

For some reason flash reminds me of the masters of the universe movie

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Interestingly enough, in the canceled MotU sequel, He-Man would have been living on Earth disguised as a football player.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

@@AtomicSnackBar can I say some thing off topic lol. For years and years a local theater sort of a old movie palace and it’s local conglomerates. Have a horror movie fest for the month of October in lieu of Halloween. Because of Jason Michael Freddy and Chucky ghost face etc. they have not been able to squeeze in any other kinds of movies. American werewolf in London Lost boys and poltergeist are the only movies that can get squeezed down. Nosferatu makes it in there sometimes. But with all the franchise reboots remakes and sequels. Horror fest up and ruined for the projected future.

[@PuncherOfAbs]

Forever in yamoto in Galaxy Xpress

[@PuncherOfAbs]

I wish the star crash directer did a princes of Mars if John carter game. My animation teacher worked for Max Fleischer Studios and said after the super man shorts I mean iconic Superman shorts. They were going to do John carter from Mars but the studio was in shachy ground money wise and didn’t green lite it. He did show me production designs. It look great. I hope his family kept that for posterity sake after his death

[@PuncherOfAbs]

There was an animated movie I think by the producers of rock and rule that had a fem Android and a Han Solo Ish trades men named dag. The billions name was zigot

[@AtomicSnackBar]

Oh yeah, that would have been really neat. I picked up a Mill Creek collection of classic cartoons recently. It has some Fleischer stuff on it. I could see his style working with John Carter.

[@AtomicSnackBar]

You mean Nelvana?

[@PuncherOfAbs]

@@AtomicSnackBar is that the Japanese name?