Gina Holden and Eric Johnson in "Flash Gordon"
courtesy of Sci Fi Channel
"Flash Gordon" (Sci Fi Channel)

You've heard that saying, "Everything old is new again," well the Sci Fi Channel is out to prove that's true. They are bringing the world a new version of the old serial adventure "Flash Gordon." This new series is also called "Flash Gordon" but instead of starring Buster Crabbe this one stars Eric Johnson.

This new version has Steven "Flash" Gordon living with his mother after the death of his father. He is still troubled by his father's death and dedicates each race he wins to his father's memory. Flash is quick on his feet and enters marathons.

Dale Arden (Gina Holden) was Flash's high school flame but she went off to college and now has come home engaged. It doesn't take a genius to see that the sparks are still there between them. This is especially true when she interviews him for the local TV station after he has won a race.

Instead of being about spaceships and lost planets this show concerns an alternate universe ruled over by a dictator named Ming (John Ralston). Flash learns that his father may be trapped in this alternate universe and goes into it searching for him. Dale also comes along.

There is a high cheese factor on this series. It is all played as camp but without that usual "campy" feeling. If you can get into the spirit and fun of the series you might have an okay time while watching it. Johnson, however, is not an impressive leading man. He is blonde and bland.

Gina Holden is more impressive as Dale. She gives the character some spunk and energy. In the premiere episode Ralston was non-impressive as Ming. Maybe he will get better in future episodes.

Who knows why the powers that be thought we needed a new version of "Flash Gordon" but here it is. The series premieres on the Sci Fi Channel, Friday, August 10 at 10PM.
 

 

 

 

 

©2007 Jackie K. Cooper

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