From the deepest subconsciousness of the universe comes the eccentrical Colonel Bleep, the spaceman of the future!
In 1957, Colonel Bleep, an animated series by Robert D. Buchanan and Jack Schleh and produced by Soundac, changed the course of the history of color television. The show, originally designed as an animated adventure quiz, stars Colonel Bleep, a futurian space ranger with unique flight gear and the power to harness futomic energy. He ventures across the universe, protecting it from evil powers and dangerous forces, and is accompanied by a happy-go-lucky wooden boy of the 1950s (Squeak) and a strong-willed caveman blasted from a nuclear explosion from the Stone Age to the space age (Scratch).
Despite its impact, the show has fallen into obscurity, with over half of all episodes missing, poorly aged quality, and confusing lore and characterization. However, as it has been in the public domain since 1985, it is possible to resolve these issues. No one has ever retold the adventures of one of TV's earliest space aces in a pair of contemporary lenses until now, making this project both remarkable and essential.
Stand by for the rebirth of a forgotten legend!
In this heavy adaptation of the public domain cartoon, Colonel Lucius “Bleep” Morningstar, the interplanetary intelligence agent from the Futura High Command, is assigned on a dangerous mission to investigate Earth and research its growing atomic age and all-new space technology.
As the brilliant but workaholic officer accepts this journey, he’ll unexpectedly encounter two misfits on the blue planet: Scratch, the strongwilled caveman who needs help adjusting to the modern world after being frozen for over 20,000 years, and Squeak, the mischievous youthful marionette who dreams of exploring the stars. Although they are not from the same time or planet, they will need each other in the best to worst situations.
Despite having new allies, Bleep’s mission is not harmless, for the sinister criminal mastermind and assassin Dr. Destructo threatens him. With his life in jeopardy, it is up to Colonel Bleep to confront his fears and adversary and become the compassionate and courageous hero he is meant to be.
This independent, open-source animated series was written as a love letter to the early space age. Its colorful retro comic book aesthetic has ties with the mid-century modern aesthetic(similar to the original show's cartoon modern art style). Packed with thrills, chills, and hearts, Colonel Bleep and the Uncharted Earth is the kind of sci-fi adventure that will excite and exhilarate readers, young and old!
Want to learn more about Colonel Bleep and the Uncharted Earth?
Do you need an appetizer for the series? Check out the show's official website. There, you can glimpse the synopsis, exciting characters, the vintage predecessor, and much more!
Watch the animated test pilot, Colonel Bleep and the Test Theme, from YouTube or the Internet Archive, which promotes the titular character. This video briefly explains his uncanny powers and the pivotal past he had to face in becoming a fierce and formidable space ranger.
Another suggestion is to check out the three analysis videos: one discussing the rise and fall of the original series and two more regarding plans for remaking the series. While it may sound like a lot, the novel will promise more action, adventure, danger, suspense, and fun ahead once readers encounter the first thrilling escapades of Colonel Bleep!