When it comes to rebooting beloved TV shows things can go awry easily, but sometimes the risk is worth it, especially if a reboot could bring the story to a whole new audience. In an age where female superheroes are finally coming into their own on the small screen, it is time for a The Secret World of Alex Mack reboot. No, I'm not talking about the further adventures of adult Alex, but, rather, a straight reboot of the series for pre-teen viewers and nostalgic adults.
This might raise alarm bells for people who grew up with the show. There is always the worry that a reboot just won't do the original justice, but right now is the perfect time to reintroduce Alex Mack to the world. The series was a cult classic when it was on, so its original fanbase is a small, but passionate group who I think would be happy to share a modern Alex's journey with a new generation.
In many ways, Alex Mack was ahead of its time. The layered, conspiracy theory storytelling, the strong female leads, and the use of metaphors to explain how transitioning from elementary to middle school can be a stressful, confusing time are all well-suited to savvy youngsters today. The world needs Alex Mack now more than ever, and here are 11 reasons why it is time for a reboot.
1. Alex Is A Complex Role Model
Alex was not perfect, and the importance of that aspect of her personality cannot be overstated. She had a good heart and was loyal to her friends, but she struggled with how to use her powers. She never became an actual superhero, although she was powerful after that infamous toxic spill, and having her discover her strengths and weaknesses as a person was some of the show's best material.
2. The Conspiracy Story Could Be Fleshed Out
The evil corporation that manufactured GC-161, the chemical that gave Alex her powers, deserves further exploration. Exploring their intentions for the chemical, as well as their pursuit of Alex could be done in a more in depth manner. The conspiracy was fun in the original, but it could become an even bigger part of a modern remake.
3. Annie Is The STEM Hero Girls Need
Alex's sister Annie is an amazing STEM role model. She is devoted to science, and approaches Alex's situation both as a sister and a scientist. She uses her skills to document Alex's reactions to GC-161 and performs experiments to make sure Alex is safe. She is the kind of cool, confident female scientist who could inspire young women to pursue STEM subjects just by being herself.
4. The Special Effects Would Be Seriously Upgraded
I swear, I am not a special effects snob, but can you imagine how cool Alex's powers would look now given how far technology has advanced? The morphing into a puddle move could be particularly spectacular.
5. The World Needs More Sci-Fi Shows Aimed At Young Women
There are precious few sci-fi shows aimed at kids these days, and even fewer with female leads. Alex Mack was an amazing sci-fi show that acted as the perfect gateway for young women to see how sci-fi storytelling could relate to their lives. Alex Mack could do for the next generation what she did for the lucky millennials who adored her story.
6. Larisa Oleynik Deserves To Make A Comeback
Your '90s queen and mine, Oleynik would have to have a role in the reboot. However, instead of playing Alex, wouldn't it be delicious to see Oleynik step into the role of CEO of the Paradise Valley Chemical Plant, Danielle Atron? Seeing Oleynik become the show's villain would be the ultimate treat for original fans.
7. Social Media Would Add A Whole New Layer To The Story
In the age of the Internet, Alex's plight to keep her secret would become so much harder, but, at the same time, the internet would be an invaluable resource for Annie and Alex as they documented Alex's powers and researched the chemical plant. Adding hacker to Annie's list of skills would only make her cooler.
8. Alex Challenges Gender Norms
In the '90s, Alex was simply considered a tomboy, but the character actually challenged gender norms in a way that would resonate with the more socially savvy youth of today. From Alex's choice of clothes and love of sports to her interest in boys, Alex proved there was no one way girls should be, and a message that powerful should be shared across generations.
9. Alex's Powers Could Lead To Amazing Character Growth
I respect the original show for not turning Alex into a cape wearing superhero, but I do think there's more story to be told about a young woman on the brink of becoming a teenager realizing she possesses an amazing amount of power. Watching Alex grow into her abilities and learning how to harness them would make for amazing TV.
10. Every Generation Deserves A Chance To Ship Alex/Ray
It's a rite of passage, guys.
11. Alex's Journey Still Resonates
Alex's journey from a confused kid to a super powered teen is one that will always be relevant. It's a coming of age story, and while the technology could use an update, Alex as a character is universal. A reboot would work because Alex is someone every kid would relate to, and every adult would remember relating to.
Alex Mack needs to make a comeback, ASAP. Someone tell Nickelodeon the world is ready for more Alex.
Image: Nickelodeon; Giphy (5); fyeahalexmack (4), captureyourimagination/Tumblr
