Flash Gordon - Conquers The Universe [1940]

In this 12-part serial finds Alex Raymond's science-fiction hero battling Ming the Merciless (Charles Middleton). Flash has to save the earth from a mysterious plague known as the Purple Death. When Dr. Zarkov (Frank Shannon) finds one a spaceship from planet Mongo seeding the atmosphere it is clear that Ming the Merciless is back to his old tricks. Flash is aided by old friend Prince Barin of Arboria (Roland Drew) and his new wife Princess Aura (Shirley Deane), as they head to Frigia, where our heroes will find polarite, the antidote to the plague, and some really interesting locking Rock People. Of course, Ming is going to go out of his way to stop Flash and his friends.

My only real complaints are that the costumes look like leftovers from "Robin Hood" and that Carol Hughes replaced Jean Rogers as Dale Arden; yes, she looks more like Dale did in the comic strip, but I did not read the comic strips so that is not a consideration (and I prefer Rogers as a blonde in the first Flash Gordon serial, not the brunette she was in the second, "Flash Gordon's Trip to Mars"). Oh, well, life is full of such disappointments, but we push on. you want to watch the three Flash Gordon serials in order, but if you start with this one you will certainly be able to follow the fun without any problems.

Flash Gordon Conquers the Universe -
Review date: 2003-10-30 Rating: 4 out of 10

While it is undoubtedly a delight to see these masterpieces brought to DVD, hardened Fans are in for a disappointing time. Having watched and become very familiar with this series, it is frustrating to see just how many scenes have been cut out of this version for no readily apparent reason. Not one episode seems to have escaped this dissection. Take, for Example, the scene in Episode 1 where Flash is is changing into his Arborian unifiorm and admiring a sword while chatting to Ronal. GONE.
My advice to any Flash Gordon pruists is not to buy this version....you will be sold disgustingly short

the prelude to star wars
Review date: 2002-06-28 Rating: 8 out of 10

having watvched these years ago on channel 4 i immediately bought these and was surprised to see how many elements were in here that would be eventually used in star wars. (for example the prelude at the beginning of each episode). the special effects are ancient at best but they don't harm what this series actually is, pure, decent sci-fi