There is one theatrical Stargate movie: the original 1994 film, simply titled Stargate. While spin-off series and direct-to-DVD movies followed, the original film remains the sole cinematic release in the core Stargate narrative timeline.
Unveiling the Stargate Cinematic Universe: Beyond the Initial Gate
The Stargate franchise is more expansive than many realize, encompassing television series, animated shows, comic books, and yes, direct-to-DVD movies. While Stargate (1994) is the only film to have graced cinema screens, understanding the entire landscape provides a richer appreciation of the universe built upon its foundation. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the Stargate filmography, answering crucial questions and clarifying any potential confusion.
Stargate: The Movie That Started It All
Directed by Roland Emmerich and co-written with Dean Devlin, the original Stargate presented a groundbreaking concept: a device capable of instantaneously transporting people across vast interstellar distances. Kurt Russell as Colonel Jack O’Neil and James Spader as Dr. Daniel Jackson delivered captivating performances, propelling the movie to box office success and birthing a sprawling franchise. This single theatrical release laid the groundwork for all that followed. It established the core mythology, the Stargate itself, the Ancient Egyptian-inspired alien culture, and the ongoing battle against the Goa’uld.
The Spin-Offs: Direct-to-DVD Adventures
The phenomenal success of Stargate SG-1, the television series that directly continued the story from the original film (albeit with different actors portraying O’Neil and Jackson), led to the creation of two direct-to-DVD movies. These films served to wrap up storylines from the show and offer fans a final glimpse into the SG-1 team’s adventures.
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Stargate: The Ark of Truth (2008): This film concluded the long-running Ori storyline that spanned the final two seasons of Stargate SG-1.
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Stargate: Continuum (2008): This film features a time-travel plot involving the Goa’uld Ba’al and provides a more definitive ending for the core SG-1 team.
It’s important to note that while these are films in the Stargate universe, they were not released theatrically, making Stargate (1994) the sole representative in that category.
FAQs: Your Guide to Stargate Movie Mania
This section addresses common questions and clarifies various aspects of the Stargate movie universe, helping you navigate its complexities and appreciate its breadth.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does Stargate SG-1 have any theatrical movies?
No. Stargate SG-1, despite its enormous popularity and lengthy run, never had a theatrical movie release. Its stories were primarily told through its television seasons and the two direct-to-DVD films mentioned above.
2. Is Stargate Atlantis related to the movies?
Yes, Stargate Atlantis is a spin-off of Stargate SG-1, which itself is a direct continuation (albeit with some retconning) of the original Stargate movie. Therefore, Stargate Atlantis exists within the same shared universe and is indirectly related to the film.
3. What is the difference between a direct-to-DVD movie and a theatrical release?
A direct-to-DVD movie is released directly to home video formats, bypassing a theatrical release in cinemas. A theatrical release, on the other hand, is screened in cinemas before being made available on home video or streaming platforms. The Stargate franchise has both.
4. Why didn’t they make more theatrical Stargate movies after the original?
Several factors likely contributed to this decision. The success of Stargate SG-1 shifted the focus to television, proving to be a more profitable and sustainable format for storytelling. Furthermore, ownership and creative control changes within the franchise likely played a role in the direction it ultimately took.
5. Are there any plans for future Stargate movies?
The future of Stargate movies has been uncertain for years. While there have been occasional rumors and announcements regarding potential reboots or continuations, none have materialized into concrete projects. MGM, the owner of the Stargate franchise, has explored various avenues, but as of now, there are no confirmed plans for any new theatrical Stargate movies. This is a question many fans are eagerly awaiting an answer to.
6. Where can I watch the existing Stargate movies?
The original Stargate and the two direct-to-DVD movies are available for purchase or rental on various digital platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Google Play, and Apple TV. Physical copies (Blu-ray and DVD) are also widely available. Availability may vary depending on your region.
7. Is the TV show Stargate SG-1 a sequel or a reboot to the original movie?
It’s technically a sequel, although it retcons certain elements from the original film, such as the appearance of Ra and the composition of the Stargate teams. The show picks up roughly a year after the events of the movie. The characters of Jack O’Neil and Daniel Jackson are recast, and the show establishes a more complex and interconnected mythology.
8. Does the animated series Stargate Infinity connect to the original movie?
Stargate Infinity is considered non-canon by most fans and creators of the main Stargate series. It’s a separate animated series with its own characters and storyline that doesn’t align with the established Stargate universe. Therefore, while it bears the Stargate name, its connection to the original movie and subsequent TV shows is minimal.
9. What order should I watch the Stargate movies and TV shows in?
For the best viewing experience, it’s recommended to watch the original Stargate movie first. Then, follow with Stargate SG-1 (Seasons 1-8), Stargate: Atlantis (Seasons 1-5, interwoven with SG-1), Stargate SG-1 (Season 9 & 10), Stargate: The Ark of Truth, and finally Stargate: Continuum. This chronological order allows you to fully appreciate the evolving storylines and character development across the franchise.
10. Did Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin, the creators of the original Stargate movie, have any involvement in the TV shows?
No. Roland Emmerich and Dean Devlin did not have any direct involvement in the Stargate SG-1, Stargate Atlantis, or Stargate Universe television series. They retained the rights to create their own separate sequels, which never materialized.
11. Are there any books or comics that continue the story of the Stargate universe beyond the movies and TV shows?
Yes, there are numerous Stargate novels and comic books that expand upon the universe established in the movies and television shows. These books and comics often explore new storylines, characters, and alien cultures, providing fans with additional content to enjoy. However, their canonicity is sometimes debated.
12. Will a Stargate reboot ever actually happen?
While the question of a Stargate reboot remains unanswered definitively, the persistent rumors and discussions within the entertainment industry suggest that there is still interest in revitalizing the franchise. The complexities surrounding rights, creative direction, and audience expectations make the prospect challenging, but the enduring popularity of the Stargate universe leaves the door open for a potential reboot in the future. Only time will tell.
Conclusion: The Legacy of a Single Gate
Despite the sprawling television universe and numerous spin-offs, the simple answer remains: there is only one theatrical Stargate movie. Its impact, however, is undeniable. It ignited a franchise that captivated audiences for years, and although a big-screen return is uncertain, the legacy of that single film continues to resonate with fans around the globe. The story of a portal to the stars, once a simple premise, has become a complex and beloved universe, inviting exploration and endless possibilities, even without a plethora of silver-screen counterparts.