Star Trek and Alien: Earth are two of the biggest space-based franchises, but both face competition from another sci-fi staple – The Outer Limits. A classic series that started in 1963, The Outer Limits has a proven track record with episodes like “Dead Man’s Switch.” This Season 3 episode follows Lieutenant Ben Conklin as he is tasked with commanding nuclear weapons to defend against an alien threat.
In this gripping story, Ben is part of a team of people from around the world who must stay in their bunkers for a year. If they don’t hear from the surface by a certain point, they’re to activate the weapons and wipe out all aliens. Sounds simple enough, but as time passes and accidents occur, Ben starts to go mad, unsure if he’s truly alone.
The premise of “Dead Man’s Switch” is not new, with doomsday bunkers being a staple of modern sci-fi. However, The Outer Limits episode stands out for its terrifying take on the concept. Similar to the movie 10 Cloverfield Lane, which centers around an alien invasion and the mental struggles of its characters.
In contrast, War of the Worlds fails to deliver the same impact, focusing too much on action and neglecting the emotional toll on its protagonist. By taking a page from The Outer Limits’ playbook, this episode proves that a doomsday scenario can be just as terrifying when it’s about the human mind rather than special effects.
The Outer Limits’ “Dead Man’s Switch” is a chilling reminder of the horrors that await us in the unknown. Will you join the conversation on ComicBook Forum and share your thoughts?
Source: https://comicbook.com/tv-shows/feature/28-years-ago-a-forgotten-sci-fi-tv-show-released-the-most-mind-bending-episode-of-tv-ever