Watch Phantom Empire (Original Serial)

Phantom Empire is a 12-episode serial that was first released back in 1935. This classic Western sci-fi series was directed by Otto Brower and B. Reeves Eason and featured Gene Autry, the legendary American singer, songwriter, and actor, in his first acting role. The show was produced by Mascot Pictures Corporation and released by Republic Pictures.

The series features the adventures of Gene Autry, a young cowboy singer who is also the owner of the Radio Ranch, a dude ranch that has a radio station broadcasting live shows to listeners across the country. However, Gene's idyllic life is disrupted when he discovers an underground civilization nestled beneath his ranch. The underground city is a strange and futuristic place called Murania, which is populated by robots, mutants, and men equipped with technological gadgets.

Soon, Gene and his friends are drawn into a conflict between the Muranians and the surface world. The underground citizens are led by Queen Tika, a beautiful but ruthless ruler who seeks to conquer the surface world and establish her reign over it. Meanwhile, Gene and his friends, including Betsy Baxter, the daughter of the radio station manager, try to prevent the Muranians from carrying out their plans of destruction.

The show features many exciting action sequences, including thrilling chases, gunfights, and fistfights. There are also trademark Autry musical performances, as well as aerial battles and car chases. The series has been described as a "weird Western" that combines the themes of cowboys and aliens in a unique blend that was ahead of its time.

The Phantom Empire was notable for its impressive visual effects and innovative use of science fiction elements. The show's designers created the impressive underground city of Murania, which featured many futuristic gadgets, such as ray guns, anti-gravity machines, and a central control room. The design of Murania was heavily influenced by Fritz Lang's classic film Metropolis, which had been released in Germany in 1927.

The series featured a talented and diverse cast, including Frankie Darro, who played "Bucky", Gene's young sidekick, and the Muranians' top agents, Chapter 1's J. Frank Glendon and Chapter 2-12's Wheeler Oakman. The show also featured Smiley Burnett, who played Frog Millhouse, the comic relief, and Edward Peil Sr., who portrayed the villainous Argo.

Even though Phantom Empire only aired for a short time, it became a cult classic among science fiction and Western fans. The show's enduring popularity led to renewed interest in Autry's career, and he went on to become one of the most successful entertainers of his generation. The show's imaginative blend of science fiction and Westerns certainly influenced later filmmakers, including George Lucas, who cited the show as an inspiration for his Star Wars franchise.

In conclusion, Phantom Empire is a classic Western sci-fi adventure that is a must-watch for any fan of either genre. The show features imaginative visual effects, thrilling action sequences, and a talented cast, including Gene Autry, in his first acting role. The series is a unique blend of cowboys, robots, and underground civilizations, and its enduring popularity has led to its status as a cult classic. Despite being over eighty years old, the show remains a thrilling and entertaining experience that is definitely worth watching.

Phantom Empire (Original Serial) is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (12 episodes). The series first aired on January 1, 1935.