Watch Hyperdrive

Hyperdrive is a British comedy sci-fi TV series that originally aired on BBC Two in 2006 and 2007. The show follows the crew of the HMS Camden Lock, a British spaceship on a mission to explore outer space and expand Earth's reach. The space crew is led by the captain of the ship, Michael Henderson, played by Nick Frost.

Alongside Frost, the main cast includes Kevin Eldon, Miranda Hart, Stephen Evans, Dan Antopolski and Petra Massey. They all bring a unique and hilarious touch to the show, making it a fun ride from start to finish.

The show takes place in the year 2151, where Earth has become the center of the universe, thanks to its vast wealth and resources. The HMS Camden Lock is sent out to explore new galaxies and form alliances with extraterrestrial beings. However, their mission is not always straightforward, as they encounter various challenges, including rivalries with other spaceships and differing cultural practices among the different planets.

The main plotline of the show revolves around the crew's attempts to make it to the 'Fifth Quadrant', a region of space believed to contain some of the universe's most advanced civilisations. The journey to the Fifth Quadrant offers plenty of opportunities for laughs and hijinks as the crew has to navigate through asteroid belts, deal with malfunctioning tools and constantly bicker with each other.

One aspect of the show that sets it apart from other sci-fi comedies is its attention to world-building. The universe of Hyperdrive is expansive and detailed, with each episode introducing viewers to new alien species, planets and cultures. The show's writers have taken care to create mythologies and backstories that feel genuine and well-thought-out.

Another key factor in the show's success is its characters. Each crew member has their unique quirks and flaws that make them entertaining to watch. From the ship's bumbling engineer, York (played by Eldon), to the overly enthusiastic first officer, Teal (played by Hart), the characters are all flawed in relatable ways, making them feel like real people instead of just comedic archetypes.

The show's humour is also a major draw for audiences. The writing is sharp and witty, with pop-culture references and clever jokes peppered throughout. However, the humour never feels forced or over-the-top, but rather comes naturally from the characters' interactions and the situations they find themselves in.

Despite its strengths, Hyperdrive did not receive a third season, leaving fans disappointed. However, the show is still worth checking out for its clever writing, hilarious characters and attention to world-building. Whether you're a sci-fi fan or just in the mood for light-hearted comedy, Hyperdrive is sure to deliver.

Hyperdrive is a series that ran for 2 seasons (12 episodes) between January 11, 2006 and on BBC America