_**A hidden gem in a sea of dreck**_

"The Lost Future" (2010) is proof that TV films can rise to greatness. It's a sci-fi/adventure hybrid in the spirit of "Beneath the Planet of the Apes" (1970) but without the apes.

THE PLOT: In a post-apocalyptic world a small tribe of hunters & gatherers are forced to go beyond their normal hunting grounds to secure meat, which enables the "beasts" to find their village and attack. These "beasts" are actually diseased humans who are mad and zombie-like. Their disease spreads through bites, scratches or even breath. Three members of the tribe escape the siege in the hope of finding help from people outside their area. They soon learn of an antidote. Can they get the help they need and return to their besieged families before it's too late?

Although there are no apes, the similarities to "Beneath the Planet of the Apes" are obvious: Both films take place in post-apocalyptic societies, both feature people living in primitive conditions, both include human mutants, and both include hot cavebabes. The films differ in that their plots are totally different and "The Lost Future" has a lot more action; plus "The Lost future," although completely serious, has a more comic book vibe.

Some have compared "The Lost Future" to the Mad Max films but this isn't really true since there aren't any motorized vehicles or cops, not to mention it's more serious and all-around better IMHO.

Like the first two installments in the "Planet of the Apes" series and all great sci-fi films "The Lost Future" addresses important themes beyond the surface story. For instance, the downside of religion is addressed: Religionists tend to turn inward and stagnate in the name of conservatism, while truth-seekers look beyond the limiting parameters set by the religious rulers (who are a type of legalists, like the Pharisees and Teachers of the Law in the New Testament). The false doctrines and flawed mentalities of the religionists may temporarily keep the tribe (or church or denomination) safe but they're ultimately detrimental since only the truth can set free, as Jesus himself declared (John 8:31-32). This is just a taste; there's more subtext, like selfless sacrifice for the greater cause.

The protagonists are all likable and honorable with Sam Claflin standing out as Kaleb, an underdog who rises to the challenge. An interesting side note is that Caleb in the Bible, along with Joshua, were honored by God for having a "different spirit," a spirit of faith. This is the only hope for Kaleb's tribe in the film: the wild, bold faith it takes to break free of the confines of the religionists to find the truth and freedom, for him and his people. Corey Sevier and Sean Bean also have important masculine roles.

The film features two outstanding women: The breathtaking Annabelle Wallis as Dorel, the main female protagonist, and the incredible Hannah Tointon as Giselle, who plays a significant role in the final act. Also worthy of mention is Eleanor Tomlinson as the precious Miru, Kaleb's sister who does her best to survive the cave-siege.

The film has a worthy villain with Jonathan Pienaar as the arrogant Gagen, who also doesn't appear until the last act. Since Gagen possesses the last of the immunization powder he also controls the remaining human populace. Unfortunately he's gotten used to his position of power and therefore isn't open to ideas that are for the greater good of humanity.

Another plus is the magnificent locations, shot in Capetown and Western Cape, South Africa, of all places. Outstanding job on this front. In addition, although this is a low-budget TV film the sets and CGI (like the giant sloth) are quite impressive.

FINAL SAY: The low-ratings by other reviewers are totally inexplicable. Don't believe 'em. "The Lost Future" is an excellent modern sci-fi adventure in the spirit of "Beneath the Planet of the Apes." Although made-for-TV and thoroughly comic booky, It's a hidden gem in a sea of cinematic dreck.

At a lean 91 minutes the film has no fat.

GRADE: A-