Television...a little scarier in the 1970's
Television in the 1970's was a very different animal than what
it is today. To start with, there were only 7 channels..at least in NY.
And, most programming, used to end around 3am...National Anthem, please
take a bow. A staple of 1970's Television were "Movies of the Week"
many of those, thankfully, were thrillers/suspense/horror and
now courtesy of David Deal we finally have a book that chronicles
those films in "Television Fright Films of the 1970s"
The books spans the entire decade from 1970-1979 and boasts over 150 films. All films include a Cast & Crew listing plus running time and original date of airing. The reviews are intelligent, witty and enlightening with a number of great photos and/or promotional posters
from the period.
Moreover, the author never approaches the subject matter
too seriously. What's most refreshing about "Fright Films" is
that Mr. Deals isn't on any particular "agenda" he writes,
critics and analyzes accordingly without going overboard. Never
mean-spirited but not afraid of the occasional tongue lash that of which Barbra "I Dream Of Jeanie" Eden seems to be the recipient of on more
than one occasion.
While I have no major criticisms there are a few minor points, here and there. For example, the reviews are generally short. A plus
in most cases although some films deserve a deeper study. At times,
Mr. Deal goes on a slight tangent on other projects that the stars/director etc..have done and drifts off from the movie in question.
However, if you expect this book to only cover "pure" horror you may be disappointed. It runs the gamut from "Suspense" to "Disaster"
to "Crime-Thrillers" and a litany of other sub-genres related and/or associated with Horror. That said, there are some real "Horror" classics
and lost gems in this entry..from "Trilogy of Terror" [1975]
"Don't Be Afraid of the Dark" [1973] "The Initiation of Sarah" [1978]
"Satan's School for Girls" [1973] "Vampire" [1979] "Duel" [1971] and the "The Spell" [1977]..to name a few.
Kudos to Mr. Deal for researching and successfully executing a
forgotten period in our Telefilm history
Well-done critical survey of 70s made-for-TV horror
An entertaining survey of the golden age of the scary TV-movie. Author Deal covers more than 150 made-for-TV horrors, ranging from the enjoyably cheesy to the genuine classics. Remember "Duel"? "Satan's School for Girls"? "Salem's Lot"? They're all here, with synopses, cast notes, and well-informed critical commentary. Baby boomers will have a fun trip down memory lane, and maybe find a few movies they've overlooked. Recommended.
Television Fright Films of the 1970's
This book is amazing for tracking down TV's best fright movies. A++++ for easy of use and information on each film.
Fun book to read
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this well-written book. It brought back many fond memories of watching these TV movies back in the seventies. The information was quite thorough and interesting. Highly recommended.
