If you're a fan of Phantasm or Beastmaster, then you already know the creative genius of Don Coscarelli, a director whose visionary storytelling has captivated horror and fantasy fans for decades. But did you know Coscarelli also ventured into the action-adventure genre during the late '80s? A forgotten gem from his filmography, Survival Quest (1988), is finally getting the spotlight it deserves—now streaming for free on Tubi, thanks to MGM. And yes, it stars none other than Phantasm's own Reggie Bannister!

Coscarelli recently took to social media to share the exciting news. In his words:

"What if I told you in the late 80s an action film was made starring Dermot Mulroney, Lance Henrikson, Catherine Keener, Mark Rolston AND Reggie Bannister.
And that… very few people ever saw it. It was stuck in the studio vaults for a long time.
Well, that movie was mine… SURVIVAL QUEST.
Thanks to Tubi & MGM, Survival Quest is now streaming in North America. For free!
Check it out and let me know what you think."

It’s a tantalizing pitch—how could an action-packed film with such an incredible cast slip through the cracks? Now's your chance to experience a Don Coscarelli-directed adventure that blends survival, suspense, and a touch of heartfelt humanity.

What Is Survival Quest About?

Survival Quest follows a group of strangers who embark on a wilderness survival course led by a seasoned instructor, played by the always-brilliant Lance Henriksen (Aliens, The Terminator). But their peaceful retreat into nature takes a dark turn when a group of violent paramilitary trainees cross paths with them. What begins as a journey of personal growth becomes a fight for survival against a hostile and dangerous enemy.

With its stunning backwoods setting, intense action sequences, and Coscarelli’s knack for character-driven storytelling, Survival Quest delivers a gripping cinematic experience that feels just as fresh today as it did when it was filmed.

Reggie Bannister Alert!

For the Phantasm faithful, Reggie Bannister’s presence in the film is an undeniable highlight. While Bannister is best known for wielding a four-barrel shotgun and battling the Tall Man, here he trades horror for high-stakes drama. His role in Survival Quest showcases his versatility as an actor and brings a familiar charm that fans of Coscarelli’s work will instantly recognize.

The ALIEN Connection!

The connection between Lance Henriksen and Mark Rolston in Survival Quest carries a fascinating "Alien" legacy that fans of sci-fi classics will appreciate. Both actors are alumni of the iconic Aliens (1986) film directed by James Cameron, where Henriksen played the empathetic android Bishop and Rolston portrayed the tough-as-nails Private Drake. Their performances in Aliens added depth to an already stellar ensemble, cementing their reputations in the genre. Reuniting in Survival Quest, the two bring a nuanced dynamic to the wilderness drama, showcasing their range as actors in a setting far removed from the corridors of the Nostromo or the alien-infested colonies. For fans, their shared sci-fi history makes their on-screen tension in Survival Quest all the more compelling, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the film.

Why It’s a Must-Watch

1. A Star-Studded Cast: The film boasts early performances by Dermot Mulroney (Young Guns), Catherine Keener (Get Out), and Mark Rolston (The Shawshank Redemption). These names alone make it worth a watch, but it’s also a rare chance to see them under Coscarelli’s direction.

2. Lance Henriksen’s Commanding Performance: As the wise and compassionate survival instructor, Henriksen anchors the film with gravitas and humanity.

3. Don Coscarelli’s Signature Style: Even in a different genre, Coscarelli's unique voice shines through, creating a story that balances thrilling action with heartfelt moments.

4. Reggie Bannister for the Win: If you’re here for Bannister, you won’t be disappointed. Seeing him in a wilderness survival scenario is a treat for any fan of his Phantasm days.

How to Watch

Survival Quest is available to stream for free in North America on Tubi. With no subscription required, you can dive into this hidden gem and enjoy a piece of Don Coscarelli history from the comfort of your couch.\

Survival Quest is more than just a lost film—it’s a testament to Don Coscarelli’s versatility as a director and his ability to craft stories that transcend genres. Whether you’re a die-hard Coscarelli fan, an action enthusiast, or just someone looking for an engaging film to stream, Survival Quest deserves your attention. And if you’re a Phantasm devotee, Reggie Bannister’s role is the cherry on top of this long-overdue treat.

So grab some popcorn, fire up Tubi, and let us know—does Survival Quest live up to the Coscarelli name? One thing's for sure: it’s an adventure you won’t soon forget.