I-Man (1986)

Apparently, I was 7 years old when I caught I-Man on television. I had no idea what it was, and I have no idea why I was watching it, but even at that age, the premise was so unique to me; so fascinating. Nearly twenty years later, the memory of that one viewing stayed with me until this very moment when, in doing a search on Scott Bakula, I found the entry for this show. Previously, I'd had no idea what it was called, who was in it, or even that it had been a pilot for a TV show that was never picked up. I had thought it was a made for TV movie.It's hard to work from an 18 year old memory, but what stood out about I-Man was the combined science fiction premise of a man who's unique power is to heal (an understated ability, but one with many uses), as well as the family-oriented heart of the show. After all, the father and the son both share their unique ability. They work together with a Batman/Robin sort of dynamic, though their relationship obviously runs deeper.Essentially, it's a feel good family show with a kick-butt sci-fi premise. I would have been fascinated to have seen where this would have gone, and would love to track down a copy of the pilot. And, of course, with Scott Bakula in the lead, you can never go wrong.

At 6 years old I was enamored with the invention of the VCR and I have this movie on tape from back then. It is 80's quality two-head mono recording but it is watchable. It is complete with all the cornball 80's commercials.

When a truck carrying a sample of alien gas is ran off the road, the container springs a leak. A man and his son is exposed to the gas in an attempt to rescue the driver and a scientist. Discovering the gas has a strange effect on him. He and his son can heal instantly, now wanted by the elderly crime lord who wanted the gas for just that reason. They must discover a way to keep ahead of him and his men. Their only weakness is long term exposure to complete darkness will kill them. This was only a pilot for a series that never made it. Just Like "Exo-Man" and "The Man With The Power". A darn shame, because it's one funny and cool movie that shows the range of Scott Bakula as an actor.

This wasn't a regular program; it was a Disney "Sunday Night Movie" back when they had a new one every week. Brat Patrol was another one of those. They were pretty good movies. I remember looking forward to it all week with my little sisters.