This clip from the Australian claymation sci-fi show Plasmo introduces viewers to the titular shape-shifting alien and his quirky crew. Blending space opera stylings with Aussie humour, the series' unique tone and production design give it a lasting cult appeal.

These moments follow a critical step in little Plasmo's quest to find his parents. Along with his friends Parsty and Nik-Nik, he returns to his birthplace, where he has a chance encounter with one-eyed space mercenary Coredor. These scenes reflect the tactile ingenuity of the kids' series. Creator Anthony Lawrence lovingly captures both the intimidating scale of an abandoned spacecraft and the subtle shifts in expression of his plasticine puppets. Though it takes clear cues from Hollywood sci-fi blockbusters of previous decades, Plasmo sets itself apart: Aussie accents and slang (particularly from the mouth of rambling grifter Coredor) give the footage a distinct local flavour.

Plasmo aired on the ABC in 1997, following an earlier Super 8 short film, Happy Hatchday to Plasmo (1989). Through its moral lessons, clever humour and low-budget craftiness, Plasmo stood out for its charm and creativity. Despite funding hurdles, Lawrence developed it into a 13-episode series that aired in over 24 countries.