War of the Worlds

Decades after a Martian invasion seemed to end with humanity's last victory, signs of life beneath the planet's surface hint that the war isn't really over. A tight knit team of scientists and soldiers is assembled to interpret signals, study odd alien technologies, and slow a rising threat. Harrison Blackwood, a determined astrophysicist, believes science can outpace the invaders. Norton Drake, a paraplegic computer wiz, keeps the operation humming. Suzanne McCullough, a microbiologist, tracks alien biology for weaknesses. Paul Ironhorse, a veteran officer, provides steady leadership. They chase clues through labs, satellites, and the scars of past battles, racing to stop contact before it erupts again. Personal stakes rise as past missions echo, reminding them that every choice matters.

Produced for television in 1988, the series was created by Greg Strangis and draws on the War of the Worlds concept. Directing came from a rotating slate of talents, with the project aiming to expand the familiar mythos for TV. The show also uses period-appropriate camera work and special effects to convey a sense of scale without leaning on big budgets.

Reception and themes: The show pairs scientific problem solving with tense action, focusing on how a small elite team negotiates danger, resources, and moral choices. It emphasizes collaboration between scientists and military, the resilience needed to survive an intelligent, relentless threat, and hope in cooperation. Fans remember how the episodes mix cold scientific method with human moments around a map table and a battered ship in orbit.

Despite a modest footprint in the wider zeitgeist, the 1988 War of the Worlds series built a devoted following among sci fi fans and helped shape late 80s genre TV's take on alien invasion. Its serialized teamwork and practical effects left a gentle but lasting imprint. The show's tone and ensemble cast influenced later television that blends science and action, and it remains a touchstone in discussions about 1980s science fiction TV.