General Information

Director: Sobey Martin

Writer: Peter Packer

Cast: Guy Williams, June Lockhart, Mark Goddard, Marta Kristen, Billy Mumy, Angela Cartwright, and Jonathan Harris

Composer: None (Stock Music)

Air Date: 4/20/1966

Production #: 8528

Overview

While searching for precious metals with Dr. Smith, Will enters an alien vessel, embarks on a fantastic journey, and transforms into a super genius. Hoping to duplicate Will’s outcome, Dr. Smith pilots the ship into outer space and returns to Priplanus as a decrepit, elderly man.

“A Change of Space” is marred by dubious science fiction and disturbing character changes. Nevertheless, this episode may evoke praise for its clever dialogue and comedic subject matter.

Pros

Hoping to discuss “multidimensional excursion vehicles” with Will, Dr. Smith prepares to manipulate his young friend into sharing the secret of his intellectual growth spurt. Immediately detecting the ulterior motives of his sly companion, Will describes Dr. Smith as “phony,” “transparent,” and unable to communicate on a high level of intellectual maturity—an amusing twist on the conversations between both characters, which normally consist of Dr. Smith easily persuading Will, an innocent and unsuspecting child, to participate in activities of a dangerous or unethical variety.

Cons

According to the Robot, the alien ship—revealed to be the property of a scaly, inarticulate humanoid—contains the ability to alter the molecular structure of its passengers. Given the random nature of the transformation process, however, one may question how Will and Dr. Smith manage to survive the extra-galactic spaceflight—let alone benefit from its chaotic effects.

Analysis

Prompted by Maureen, Major West brings the old Dr. Smith a bowl of hot soup and makes a genuine effort to raise his spirits—a touching gesture that, though unappreciated by Dr. Smith, serves as a testament to the kind, compassionate qualities of Major West and the Robinson family.

Concluding Comments

The second Lost in Space entry where Dr. Smith endures a grotesque physical change, this episode offers a tongue-in-cheek twist on the “The Oasis” from season one. Critical viewers may therefore wish to avoid this effort, which forgoes logical storytelling in favor of campy humor.

Overall Quality: 6/10

If you enjoyed this post, please enter your email address in the subscription box to stay tuned for more updates.