Some children‘s shows work very hard to keep the adults in the room entertained. Space Lightning seems to understand that assignment from the beginning.
Built around an intergalactic adventure with an unmistakably homemade streak, the series mixes children’s comedy with the kind of sci-fi references that parents are far more likely to catch. There are echoes of Star Wars, Star Trek and other familiar corners of science-fiction culture, but the real charm comes from how little the show seems interested in looking slick.
The cardboard universe is part of the joke
One of the most memorable things about Space Lightning is its design. Cardboard and paint are used to create an intentionally handmade universe rather than disguising themselves as expensive effects.
That gives the show an appealing make-believe quality. Instead of presenting children with another perfectly rendered digital world, it looks like something that might inspire them to raid the recycling box and start constructing a spaceship of their own.
Older science-fiction fans should find plenty to smile at too. Even the spaceship carries a familiar genre silhouette, recalling the dramatic spacecraft designs that have become part of classic sci-fi imagery.
A cast that understands the tone
Kay Sibal brings warmth and charm to May Starshine, while Michael Bauer’s Captain embraces the comedy from a completely different direction. He’s clumsy, theatrical and confidently out of his depth — the sort of exaggerated space captain who occasionally recalls Futurama‘s Zapp Brannigan.
That contrast helps the humour work across generations. Children can enjoy the physical comedy and larger-than-life performances while adults have another layer of genre references and absurdity to pick up on.
One thing we wanted more of: music
The biggest missed opportunity is music. The rock-band montage in the theme song suggests that music might become a larger part of the show’s personality, but it takes until episode 12 for that side of Space Lightning to really get its moment.
It’s fun when it finally arrives. It also leaves you wondering why the series didn’t lean into that musical energy sooner.
A family show that doesn’t need to look expensive
What makes Space Lightning enjoyable isn’t spectacle. It’s imagination.
The handmade sets, playful performances and affectionate sci-fi references give it a personality that more polished children’s productions can sometimes lack. There is something refreshing about watching a fictional universe built from cardboard and enthusiasm rather than trying to convince viewers that every adventure needs blockbuster production values.
For families looking for something light, silly and knowingly geeky to watch together, Space Lightning is a charming little voyage — and parents who grew up on science fiction may find themselves enjoying the trip just as much as the kids.
Where to watch: Space Lightning on Prime Video.
Review by M. Chambers.