Back in the ’70s, primetime TV did its hardest to revive comicbook superheroes. There was success in the form of The Incredible Hulk and Wonder Woman. But there was also plenty of short lived attempts. Captain America ended up being two specials. The producers took a lot of liberties with the character in order to tighten up the budget. His headgear with wings turned into a motorcycle helmet. The character became more of motorcycle daredevil in a patriotic outfit like Evel Knievel. The concept only lasted for two Made For TV Movies. They might have been low budget, but at least they could afford Christopher Lee for the second film. The two specials are finally getting a DVD release to coincide with the home video offering of the big budget Captain America movie. Here’s the press release from Shout! Factory:
For the First Time on DVD – Two Live-Action TV Movies
Featuring the Origin and Adventures of Captain America!
CAPTAIN AMERICA & CAPTAIN AMERICA II: DEATH TOO SOON
Action-Packed Double Feature DVD Hits
Home Entertainment Shelves Nationwide October 18, 2011
Captain America
When former Marine Steve Rogers is in an accident, his only hope for recovery is an injection of the FLAG superserum — created years ago by his own father — which enhances each of his senses, as well as gives him great strength and fast reflexes. And to help him bring his attackers to justice, a government agency outfits him with a motorcycle and powerful shield, then turns the newly formed Captain America loose on the nation’s enemies.
Stars Reb Brown (Yor, The Hunter From The Future) and Len Birman
Captain America II: Death Too Soon
Captain America returns to carry on the legacy of his father and defend the country — this time, however, he faces off against the terrorist known only as Miguel and the threat of a chemical agent that rapidly ages those who come in contact with it.
Featuring Christopher Lee (Lord Of The Rings) as the villainous Miguel.
Total Feature Running Time: +/- 203 minutes
