Horror Extreme Movie Catalog

BBTS was one of the many films that tried to capitalize on the Star Wars craze of the late '70s and early '80s. Unlike most of those films, this one actually succeeds pretty well.

The legendary Roger Corman was responsible for this film. That fact, in and of itself, is probably why this "poor man's Star Wars" deserves a look.

The special effects (for their time) were actually quite good. They were not of Star Wars caliber, but they were much better than other sci-fi films of the time.

The story is one we're all familiar with (a la The Magnifient Seven). Poor old planet Akir is being picked on by intergalactic baddie, Sador (sound almost like Vader, doesn't it?). The young and naive boy (a la Luke Skywalker) has to leave his home for the first time on an intergalactic trip to find some people who will help him defend Akir from mutant invaders.

The rest, you can pretty much figure out.

Even though the story is one we've heard and the plot is pretty predictable, this movie has so much charm and appeal that you can't help but watch.

The casting was well done (with Robert Vaughn, George Peppard, and the ever-dramatic John Saxon) and everyone gives decent performances. The costumes and sets are above average and the music is just fantastic (composed by Hollywood legend James Horner). Some of the ships, though (like the main character's ship which kind of resembles the female reproductive system) are pretty strage, but many of them are quite good.

Star Wars it ain't, but Battle Beyond the Stars is a fun sci-fi movie not to be taken too seriously.

I do want to own this title, but I'm just not willing to pay $30.00 to $40.00 (the current asking price) for it. I know the DVD is out of print, but maybe someone will come along that's willing to ask a reasonable price for it, or perhaps a re-issue of this film looms in the near future.

This movie is fun all around. Fun script, Color, Art direction, Music great for its time.
I recomend renting before you buy though if your a collector.
The film print they chose for dvd transfer is horrible.
I am not being picky either. Its worst i have ever scene on dvd especially at beginning and spots in middle.
Lots of scratches to point sometimes that they stand out over the film.
This movie deserves more care and respect I think from all involved in making the dvd.