Series-80 > TV Shows > The Powers Of Matthew Star

The Powers Of Matthew Star

Dates : 1982 - 1983
22 episodes of 45 min
First broadcasting : 06 Janvier 1985
Creator(s) : Steven E DeSouza
Producer(s) : Bruce Landsbury
Music : Michael Rubin et Denny Jaeger

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Synopsis

"The Powers of Matthew Star" is a cult classic American sci-fi TV series that aired in the early 1980s. Combining elements of science fiction, action, and drama, it captivated audiences with its unique premise of a young man discovering his extraordinary alien powers. Despite its short-lived run, the show has maintained a dedicated fanbase and remains fondly remembered for its creative storytelling and engaging performances. Set in a period of rising sci-fi popularity, the series offered a fresh take on the superhero genre, blending emotional depth with action-packed sequences. Its unique blend of teen drama and superhuman abilities set it apart from other shows of the era.

Technical Sheet

Air dates: 1982–1983
Number of episodes: 21
Creator: Donald R. Boyle
Genre: Sci-Fi, Action, Drama

Summary

"The Powers of Matthew Star" follows the life of Matthew Star (played by Peter Barton), a teenage boy who is not just your average high school student. Matthew is the heir to an alien race and possesses superhuman abilities that he is only beginning to understand. Raised on Earth after escaping a deadly attack on his home planet, he lives with his guardian, Walt (Louis Gossett Jr.), who helps him navigate his powers while protecting him from enemies seeking to control his abilities for their own purposes.

At the heart of the show is Matthew’s struggle with his identity. As he grows into his powers, he is forced to confront his origins and the implications of his abilities. The show blends action sequences with moments of personal discovery, exploring themes of alienation, responsibility, and the search for belonging. As Matthew learns to harness his powers, he must also contend with the constant threat posed by those who wish to exploit his unique gifts.

The series is structured around a typical ‘fugitive’ format, with Matthew and Walt on the run from various forces that are trying to capture him. Each episode usually features a standalone story, where the duo faces off against different adversaries, while also advancing the broader narrative of Matthew’s quest to learn more about his alien heritage. The action and drama are balanced with moments of introspection, providing a mix of excitement and emotional depth.

Main Cast

Peter Barton as Matthew Star
Louis Gossett Jr. as Walt
Michael Link as Aaron
Heather Thomas as Kim

Why Was It Iconic?

Soundtrack: The series featured a distinctive, synth-heavy soundtrack that became a hallmark of 1980s television. Its electronic music added to the futuristic vibe of the show, perfectly complementing its sci-fi themes.
Characters: The character of Matthew Star was one of the first major TV characters to deal with the struggles of being an alien in a human world, a theme that would later be explored more in shows like "Smallville." The chemistry between the lead actors, particularly between Matthew and his guardian Walt, provided a strong emotional core that resonated with audiences.
Audience reception: Although it didn’t achieve long-term success, the show was well-received by fans who enjoyed its unique mix of teen drama and superhero-style powers. It became a beloved series for those who tuned in, with many recalling it fondly in the years since its cancellation.
Visual style: "The Powers of Matthew Star" had a visually striking design, utilizing a mixture of practical effects and early special effects technology to depict Matthew's powers. This created an engaging visual experience that was quite ahead of its time for a TV series.

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