The Secret City (1985): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 1985, The Secret City is a kids, family, sci-fi & fantasy and documentary series.

What it’s about. The Secret City was a television program designed to teach children how to draw, starring Mark Kistler as as the fictional ‘Commander Mark’ who led viewers and in-studio club members through various drawing exercises in a sci-fi clubhouse setting full of fun, fantasy, and adventure. While the show’s format essentially prioritizes instruction over narrative, ongoing ‘drama’ is created by the frequent addition of new key features to the emerging scenery of the giant Secret City mural. Often Special Guests would appear on the show to demonstrate other art forms or practical applications for drawing skills. The show was created by John Price & Mark Kistler, based on Bruce McIntyre's AVDP. Much of the series was edited live in-camera and was shot in a somewhat semi-scripted format. It was produced at Maryland Public Television through private funding by Children's Video Associates, and intended for broadcast via national PBS syndication. It also aired on TVOntario.

Who’s in it. The Secret City stars Mark Kistler as Commander Mark, Joel Gori as Cindy/MetaMan/Zebtron, Joan Boccino as Special Guest and Fred Miles as Special Guest, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.0/10, The Secret City has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Secret City page.

If you liked it. Fans of The Secret City tend to enjoy Big Time Rush, Wizards of Waverly Place, The Spectacular Spider-Man and Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide.