Terrahawks

Terrahawks, produced by Gerry Anderson of Anderson Entertainment, was an adventurous sci-fi television series that originally aired in the United Kingdom between 1983 and 1986. The series brought an imaginative blend of science fiction, action, and even comedy elements together, set in a not-so-distant future timeline. The perfect blend of these genres, combined with slick production values and incredible puppetry, set Terrahawks apart from other animations of its era, making it a fan favourite that still resonates with audiences today.

The story is set in the year 2020, where Earth is under threat from hostile alien forces hailing from the planet Mars. These enemies, chiefly led by the villainous Zelda, are unrelenting in their assaults on the planet and are determined to annihilate humanity and overtake the Earth. In response, humanity relies on an organization fittingly named Terrahawks, a specially formed task force equipped with state-of-the-art technology, machinery, and weaponry to counter these threats.

The Terrahawks organization is an elite defense force stationed in a secret base codenamed "Hawknest," located somewhere beneath the Earth's surface. The team heroically battles Zelda's Martian forces and other extraterrestrial beings using a vast array of weapons, such as the impressive and giant battle tanks, spacecraft, and a series of android-operated attack vehicles.

The Terrahawks team consists of a diverse array of characters, each bearing unique traits and skills. The dashing and determined Dr. "Tiger" Ninestein leads the team. Supporting him is Captain Mary Falconer, a courageous and intelligent character, followed by Lieutenant Hiro, the analytical mind and tech whizz of the team. There's also Lieutenant Hawkeye, the sharpshooter of the group, and Lieutenant Kate Kestrel, a pop singer cum Terrahawk agent who specialises in undercover missions. Rounding out this dynamic group is Sergeant Major Zero, the leader of the Zeroids, a group of round and zealous military androids who provide the muscle power for the team.

The antagonist, Zelda, is an evil, malevolent alien queen who commands a posse of androids and monstrous creations aimed at causing chaos and destruction on Earth. Zelda's minions include her son, Youngstar, her sister, Cy-Star, and a robotic pet named It-Star, capable of altering its gender at will.

Terrahawks' signature charm comes from its technologically advanced puppets and model effects that distinguished the series from contemporary shows. The characters, despite being portrayed by marionettes, have realistic human-like features and unique appearances that capture the viewer’s attention. The same goes for the special effects and the machinery models used in the series, which present a level of craft and detail that remains impressive even by modern standards.

The show, which spans three seasons and 39 episodes, is a cinematic roller-coaster of exciting storylines, intriguing character development, and creative, action-packed sequences. The narrative is a fine balance between serious plotlines and comedic undertones, with numerous moments of light-hearted humor that targets both a younger and mature audience.

Sonically, Terrahawks also shines, employing a vibrant mix of synthesizer-based tunes that thicken the atmosphere of every scene and are very much in sync with the times. The show’s catchy and energetic theme tune is still loved by many and is remembered as a classic melody from 1980s television.

Launched amidst a golden age of British television, Terrahawks helped reimagine science fiction for a new generation. The skillful mix of action and sci-fi, along with the infusion of humor, makes Terrahawks a captivating watch. Even after more than three decades since its inception, the series continues to be cherished for its innovative style, memorable characters, and remarkable world-building. The legacy of Terrahawks lives on as a landmark of puppetry-based television, holding a mirror to the inventiveness of Gerry Anderson and his dedicated team.