The alumni cast of a space opera television series have to play their roles as the real thing when an alien race needs their help. However, they must also defend Earth and the alien race from a reptilian warlord.
Despite its initial release in 1999, I only recently had the chance to watch “Galaxy Quest,” thanks to Paramount’s 25th Anniversary 4K Limited Edition SteelBook. Having caught glimpses of the film on TV over the years, I wonder what took me so long to experience this delightful sci-fi comedy.
The movie boasts a talented central cast, including Tim Allen, Sigourney Weaver, Alan Rickman, Sam Rockwell, and Tony Shalhoub. They perfectly capture the essence of aging actors who starred in the fictional sci-fi TV series “Galaxy Quest.” Years after the show’s cancellation, they spend their time attending comic conventions and greeting fans. Their lives take an unexpected turn when they’re contacted by an alien race, the Thermians, who misunderstand the TV show as a historical documentary.
Initially, the actors believe the aliens are simply enthusiastic fans. However, they soon realize the gravity of the situation when they’re transported into outer space. The Thermians have meticulously recreated the TV show’s spaceship, the NSEA Protector, and need the actors’ help to battle their enemy, General Sarris. Faced with the possibility of the Thermians’ extinction, the actors must decide whether to stay and fight or return to Earth.
“Galaxy Quest” is a loving homage to “Star Trek,” managing to poke fun at the franchise without being demeaning or mean-spirited. The film’s ingenious plot sees the former TV stars stepping into the roles of their characters to assist the Thermians. Along the way, they learn to rely on each other in ways they never anticipated.
While Tim Allen has stated that he based his character, Jason Nesmith/Commander Peter Quincy Taggart, on Yul Brynner rather than William Shatner, the parallels between “Galaxy Quest” and the original “Star Trek” series are undeniable. From the melodramatic acting style to specific plot nods, such as Nesmith battling a rock monster reminiscent of the “Star Trek” episode “The Devil in the Dark,” the references add to the film’s charm.
“Galaxy Quest” shines with its lighthearted and whimsical tone, never taking itself too seriously. The movie culminates with the actors saving the Thermians and returning to Earth, where they’re given a second chance at “Galaxy Quest” as the show is revived. The camaraderie among the central cast members is undeniable, making it hard to imagine anyone else in their roles.
The 25th Anniversary 4K Ultra HD™ Edition is a must-have for fans. It is packed with a wealth of extras that delve into the making of this sci-fi comedy classic. With its talented cast, clever writing, and loving nods to the genre, “Galaxy Quest” is a film that will leave you smiling long after the credits roll.
Available on a 25th Anniversary 4K Limited Edition SteelBook™ December 3rd
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