Old 'Space'; New 'Space'

Sure, the more Space changes, the more Space stays the same. But it changes, nonetheless.

In souping the old TV show up to movie speed, the producers made some upgrades, improvements, and alterations. Here is a look at some of the differences.

Size Of Ship:
OLD SPACE:
Consisted pretty much of the bridge and some crew quarters.

NEW SPACE:
Much bigger. New areas include a robot bay and engine room. Also, without giving away a surprise, the Robinsons actually have two ships in this movie.

Destination:
OLD SPACE:
"Alpha Centuri," a solar system.

NEW SPACE:
"Alpha Prime," a planet in a solar system.

The Year:
OLD SPACE:
1997

NEW SPACE:
2058

Robot:
OLD SPACE:
After it runs amok in the first episode, it eventually becomes as cuddly as the family dog.

NEW SPACE:
Again, without giving away the plot, there are two versions of The Robot. The first version – the ominous big blue number seen in the movie poster – essentially must be rebuilt to become the second one, which more closely resembles The Robot of TV fame.

Likeability Of Dr. Smith:
OLD SPACE:
Starts off as a cold villain; never becomes trustworthy but does become slightly endearing, like the old visiting relative you never want to leave unsupervised. Performance is over-the-top.

NEW SPACE:
Less likeable. "We made him darker," says Goldsman. "We really have to deal with the fact that this guy tried to kill a family. Also, he's a little more versatile. He reconfigures a little bit based on who he's trying to charm."

Relationship Between Judy And Major Don West:
OLD SPACE:
Looked longingly at each other.

NEW SPACE:
"We felt the '90s version of looking longingly at each other is to insult each other," says Goldsman. They also get a little closer.

Uniforms:
OLD SPACE:
Flimsy, silver space suits; crayon-colored, striped, velvety leisure-wear.

NEW SPACE:
Form-fitting rubber "cryo-suits" complete with metal morphing technology that can contract and extend helmets.

Camp Factor:
OLD SPACE:
Began as straight science fiction; eventually careened into camp.

NEW SPACE:
Much more serious."We have our winks to camp, but they're more winks to the old audience," explains writer-producer Akiva Goldsman. "At one point, Smith says 'Oh, the pain, the pain,' or, 'Never fear, Smith is here.' But h says it in a context that makes it seem totally appropriate."

Back to 'Lost' Again

Interview With A Robot
The New Mission
The Losties

Written by Rob Medich
Graphic Design by Jerry Donnelly