Plot: What’s it about?
Simon Randall (Spencer Banks) and Liz Skinner (Cheryl Burfield) are friends who love adventure, but they have no idea how much adventure is in store. The two friends start a search for a missing girl while on vacation, only to vanish themselves. The teens passed through an invisible time barrier, also known as a timeslip, one which sends them back to World War II. This rift in time has opened for a reason, but how can two teen friends manage to make a difference in such complex circumstances? They have some help from a fellow traveler known as Commander Charles Traynor (Denis Quilley), who provides some guidance in various situations. But as they travel through time and face challenges unlike anything they’ve ever imagined, can these two simple teens somehow succeed in these incredible adventures?
In addition to popular favorites like The Avengers and Monty Python’s Flying Circus, A&E has released some obscure, cult television shows, such as Timeslip. I have to admit, I had heard of the series, but until this home video release, I had never seen Timeslip. Although the show hasn’t been given much exposure since it was shown on television, the fanbase remains solid, which is impressive. I have never been a big fan of British sci/fi, but I did enjoy Timeslip. The storylines are complex and show real depth, so the plots are never rushed. This results in a few dull stretches, but Timeslip isn’t about action, it is about storylines and characters. The plots take us through a wide scope of times and places, so we’re never in the same place long enough to wish for a new one, at least in most cases. The performances are good also, but the real draw is the way time travel is handled, in such a way that never seems trite. I found Timeslip to be a worthwhile series and while I can’t recommend a purchase, a rental is more than worth the cost.
Video: How does it look?
The episodes are presented in full frame, as intended. The visuals here look for a series from 1970, as I’ve seen some awful transfers for shows from this period. The prints seem to be in solid condition, though not pristine, but good, all things considered. There is some wear and tear, as well as softness, but given the age of the show, that is to be expected. I saw no errors in contrast to speak of, while when present, colors look good also, just a solid overall visual treatment.
Audio: How does it sound?
The audio is not too remarkable, but then again, this is the soundtrack from a 1970s television show, so we shouldn’t expect miracles. I didn’t hear much in terms of hiss or other age related flaws however, aside from a handful of minor instances. The music is thin at times, but still decent and sound effects come across as well as can be expected in this case. The main element here is dialogue, which is clean and clear at all times, no problems in the slightest there.
Supplements: What are the extras?
This release includes some biographies, as well as a featurette on the series.
