Under the Mountain

Under the Mountain

1981 • Family, Mystery, Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Under the Mountain is an eight-part television series based on the novel of the same name written by Maurice Gee, first transmitted in 1981 and produced by Television New Zealand. Many of the minor roles in this series were played by people who were at the time well known performers in New Zealand.
Maurice Gee's 'Under the Mountain' novel provides a richly detailed and imaginative narrative that delves deeper into the world of teenagers Rachel and Theo Matheson. While the TV series captures the essence of the story, the book offers a more immersive experience, exploring the internal struggles and developing growth of the characters as they face the alien threat. The novel is renowned for its atmospheric tension and its ability to build a more expansive view of the mysterious alien race known as the Wilberforces. Gee's descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of the New Zealand landscapes and settings, which adds a layer of realism to the fantasy elements of the tale. By reading the book, you gain insight into the twins' mission and the underlying themes of courage and sibling bonds. In the book, Maurice Gee intricately weaves a narrative that blends science fiction with elements of horror and fantasy, creating an enchanting experience that television adaptations may not replicate. If you appreciate detailed world-building and the thrilling suspense of a mystery unraveling page by page, 'Under the Mountain' is a must-read that enhances the foundational experiences offered in visual media.

Under the Mountain inspired from

Under the Mountain
by Maurice Gee