Hollywood Sci-Fi Web Series: Where to Start Your Interstellar Journey

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Hollywood Sci-Fi Web Series: Where to Start Your Interstellar Journey

The landscape of science fiction storytelling has dramatically shifted. While Hollywood blockbusters still dominate the box office, the rise of web series has opened a universe of possibilities for creators and viewers alike. Free from the constraints of traditional network television or massive studio budgets, web series offer innovative narratives, diverse characters, and cutting-edge visual effects, often pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the sci-fi genre. Navigating this vast digital frontier can be daunting, so here’s a curated guide to help you embark on your interstellar journey through Hollywood’s best sci-fi web series.

1. Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome (2012): A Gritty Prequel

• Why it’s essential: Before the critically acclaimed Battlestar Galactica reboot, there was Blood & Chrome. This web series, initially conceived as a TV pilot, delves into the early career of William “Husker” Adama, played by Luke Pasqualino. Set during the First Cylon War, it offers a visceral and action-packed glimpse into the origins of the conflict.
• Key features:
  • Visual Spectacle: Despite its web series origins, Blood & Chrome boasts impressive visual effects that rival those of its television predecessor. The space battles are intense, and the Cylon designs are menacing.
  • Character Development: The series provides crucial backstory for Adama, establishing him as a skilled pilot and a reluctant hero. His relationship with his co-pilot, Coker Fasjovik (Ben Cotton), is central to the narrative.
  • Canon Expansion: Blood & Chrome enriches the Battlestar Galactica universe by exploring the events leading up to the Cylon rebellion, adding depth and context to the overall story.
• Where to watch: Initially released on Machinima’s YouTube channel, it’s also available on DVD and streaming services.
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2. Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn (2012): Expanding the Halo Universe

• Why it’s essential: For fans of the Halo video game franchise, Forward Unto Dawn is a must-watch. This live-action web series serves as a prequel to Halo 4, focusing on a young Thomas Lasky at Corbulo Academy of Military Science.
• Key features:
  • Origin Story: The series explores Lasky’s transformation from a skeptical cadet to a seasoned soldier, providing valuable insight into his character and his future role in the Halo universe.
  • Master Chief Cameo: While Lasky is the central protagonist, Master Chief makes a significant appearance, offering guidance and inspiration to the young cadets.
  • Faithful Adaptation: Forward Unto Dawn remains faithful to the lore and aesthetics of the Halo franchise, satisfying hardcore fans while remaining accessible to newcomers.
• Where to watch: Originally released on Machinima, it’s now available on DVD and streaming platforms.
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3. Mortal Kombat: Legacy (2011-2013): A Gritty Reimagining

• Why it’s essential: Mortal Kombat: Legacy offers a darker and more grounded take on the iconic fighting game franchise. Directed by Kevin Tancharoen, the series explores the origins of several key characters, including Liu Kang, Sonya Blade, and Sub-Zero.
• Key features:
  • Character-Driven Stories: Each episode focuses on a specific character, delving into their motivations and backstories. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the Mortal Kombat universe.
  • Realistic Fight Choreography: The fight scenes are brutal and realistic, showcasing the characters’ martial arts skills and the high stakes of their battles.
  • Mature Themes: Legacy tackles mature themes such as revenge, redemption, and the corrupting influence of power, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
• Where to watch: Originally released on YouTube, it’s now available on DVD and streaming services.
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4. Other Space (2015): A Hilarious Space Comedy

• Why it’s essential: Created by Paul Feig, the director of Bridesmaids and Ghostbusters (2016), Other Space is a hilarious space comedy that follows the crew of the U.M.P. Cruiser. Lost in an alternate universe, they must work together to find their way home, despite their incompetence and bickering.
• Key features:
  • Ensemble Cast: The show features a talented ensemble cast, including Joel Hodgson, Karan Soni, and Bess Rous, who deliver witty performances and create memorable characters.
  • Satirical Humor: Other Space satirizes the tropes of science fiction, poking fun at the clichés of space exploration and the dynamics of dysfunctional crews.
  • Character-Driven Comedy: The humor stems from the characters’ personalities and their interactions with each other, creating a relatable and engaging viewing experience.
• Where to watch: Originally released on Yahoo! Screen, it’s now available on other streaming platforms.
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5. Video Game High School (2012-2014): A Gamer’s Paradise

• Why it’s essential: Video Game High School (VGHS) is a web series created by Freddie Wong and Brandon Laatsch, set in a world where competitive video gaming is a legitimate high school sport.
• Key features:
  • Unique Premise: The series’ premise is original and engaging, blending the tropes of high school dramas with the excitement of competitive gaming.
  • Visual Effects: VGHS features impressive visual effects that seamlessly integrate video game elements into the real world, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience.
  • Relatable Characters: The characters are relatable and well-developed, making it easy for viewers to connect with their struggles and triumphs.
• Where to watch: Available on RocketJump’s YouTube channel and Vimeo.
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6. Star Trek: Continues (2013-2017): A Fan-Made Tribute

• Why it’s essential: Star Trek: Continues is a fan-made web series that aims to continue the original Star Trek series where it left off. Created by fans for fans, it features high production values and a deep respect for the source material.
• Key features:
  • Authentic Recreation: The series meticulously recreates the look and feel of the original Star Trek, from the costumes and sets to the music and sound effects.
  • Original Stories: While staying true to the spirit of the original series, Continues tells original stories that explore new themes and ideas.
  • Professional Production: Despite being a fan-made production, Star Trek: Continues boasts professional-level acting, writing, and visual effects.
• Where to watch: Available on the Star Trek: Continues website and YouTube.
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7. Con Man (2015-2017): Meta Comedy Gold

• Why it’s essential: Con Man, created by Alan Tudyk, is a meta-comedy web series about Wray Nerely, an actor who starred in a beloved but short-lived science fiction show called Spectrum. He now navigates the convention circuit, while his former co-star, Jack Moore, enjoys mainstream success.
• Key features:
  • Self-Aware Humor: The series is filled with self-aware humor that pokes fun at the conventions of science fiction fandom and the challenges of being a genre actor.
  • Guest Star Power: Con Man features a plethora of guest stars from the science fiction community, including Nathan Fillion, Summer Glau, and Sean Maher, adding to its appeal.
  • Relatable Themes: The series explores relatable themes such as the struggle for recognition, the challenges of maintaining friendships, and the absurdity of fame.
• **Where to