FREAK FILMS: TURKISH STAR TREK

Some things are so bad they're intriguing, much like terrible automobile accidents. This is one of those things. Apparently, the Turkish love redoing popular American TV and film offerings, believing them to be far too good and way too professionally rendered. They've enthusiastically butchered everything from E.T. to The Exorcist, and the original Star Trek television series was not to be spared. Yes, you're reading this right-- there is a Turkish version of Star Trek. The episode “Man Trap”, to be precise. The roles of Kaptain Kirk and Mr. Spak are reprised by none other than Cemil Sahbaz and Erol Amac, respectively. Two actors I'd bet a king's ransom you've never heard of before. They've employed such advanced special effects as a ‘70s hooptie automobile (2070, maybe?) and a woman in a monkey suit. I give this version props for the inclusion of a mechanized martial artist long before Ice Pirates did it. Also for having a jews harp playing throughout most of the soundtrack, something Gene Roddenberry didn't have the balls to try. If your curiosity overwhelms your better judgment, write Shocking Videos (HC77 Box 111, Hinton, WV 25951) for a catalog and get your own copy. Acquire more of the best of the worst of Turkey.