‘Genesis II’/’Planet Earth’ Blu-Ray Review – Fun Gene Roddenberry TV Films Did Not Boldly Go

This piece was written during the 2023 WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. Without the labor of the writers and actors currently on strike, the movie being covered here wouldn’t exist.

“My name is Dylan Hunt. My story begins the day on which I died.” So begins this sci-fi saga from visionary creator Gene Roddenberry (Star Trek). Genesis II follows NASA scientist Dylan Hunt (Alex Cord), who’s buried in his own suspended-animation machine at NASA’s underground Carlsbad complex following an earthquake. Revived in the terrifying 22nd century by the pacifists of PAX, descendants of his fellow scientists, he learns of The Great Conflict, a third and final world war that destroyed everything he knew. As an agent of PAX, Dylan seeks to spread the message of science and peace throughout this savage and strange new world called Earth. In Genesis II, he encounters the Tyranians, a mutant, militaristic neighboring civilization. In Planet Earth, Dylan (now played by John Saxon) journeys to the Confederacy, where a despotic matriarchy enslaves all males.

For thoughts on Genesis II/Planet Earth, please check out our discussion on The Video Attic: 

[youtube https://youtu.be/46jRHslivTE?t=1323]

Video Quality

Genesis II and Planet Earth come to Blu-Ray courtesy of the Warner Archive in a gorgeous 1080p transfer derived from new masters which allow both features to look better than they ever have. Both films are included on a single disc, and the brevity of the features allow them to exist comfortably without compression artifacts. Both transfers are showstoppers in every respect. Colors leap off the screen with a vibrancy that would stun audiences who saw this one when it first aired. You only need to take a look at any of the brilliant environmental hues to gain a deep appreciation for this transfer. These films make you feel like you are watching a modern movie. That’s not to say that the filmic quality is compromised in the least; there is abundant natural grain that yields spectacular detail. There is no hint of digital artifacts or banding to be found. Warner Archive has really pulled out all of the stops on this release. 

Audio Quality

This Blu-Ray comes with a strong DTS-HD 2.0 Master Audio track for each film that properly preserves the original soundscape. Dialogue is crystal clear without ever being overshadowed by special effects or score. The more active moments along with the environmental sounds create a spacious track that is more nuanced than you might expect. The score is treated respectfully and balanced well within the mix. This track provides a presentation free of any major defects or digital anomalies that would compromise the appreciation of the film. Optional English SDH subtitles are provided for those who desire them. 

Special Features

There are no special features provided on this disc. 

Final Thoughts

Genesis II and Planet Earth are two television movies from the great Gene Roddenberry which could not quite translate into a longer episodic run like his beloved Star Trek. Each pilot has a similar concept which is more acutely finessed in its Planet Earth iteration, but both have aspects to appreciate for science fiction fans. While not perfect, we see the potential of what both could have blossomed into given the proper time and effort. We are glad to at least have both of these efforts available to view to give us another thing to appreciate about Roddenberry. Warner Archive has given this one a Blu-Ray with a top-tier A/V presentation but no special features. It is not high art like many of the releases in this line, but it is something that will appeal to those who love old-school genre television. Recommended 

Genesis II/Planet Earth can be purchased directly through MovieZyng or various other online retailers.

Note: Images presented in this review are not reflective of the image quality of the Blu-Ray.

Disclaimer: Warner Archive has supplied a copy of this disc free of charge for review purposes. All opinions in this review are the honest reactions of the author.