Synopsis
For the first time, a complete history of the Gerry and Sylvia Anderson television productions which pioneered science-fiction special effects. Film historian Steven La Riviere, whose documentary about Supercar was the final word on the series, takes you behind-the-scenes and covers every aspect of the creation and production of such television shows as Supercar, Fireball XL5, Stingray, Thunderbirds, Captain Scarlet, Secret Service, and Joe 90. The book also covers the Anderson's efforts from the beginning including Torchy and Four Feather Falls. This full-color art book is packed with hundreds of never-before-seen production photos, artwork, and illustrations making this the definitive book on the subject.
Review
With so many books on Gerry Anderson's shows already weighing down the shelves, you d have thought there d be little need for yet another. Which makes it all the more surprising that Anderson fanatic Stephen La Rivière's labour of love is such an essential read. And not just essential for Anderson fans. This is a fascinating read for anybody
interested in the way TV was produced in the 50s and 60s.
What makes the book so engrossing is not the mass of research which has uncovered new facts and revelations. Neither is it the collection of new imagery the author has uncovered along with the usual publicity shots, there are photos from Anderson associates private collections, plus lost scripts, press clippings and even the small ad Sylvia Anderson (then Sylvia Thamm) answered which introduced her to Anderson's world.
No, Riviére's masterstroke is to write this as a biography. Not of Anderson but of his company, AP Films, from its inception in 1957 to its last puppet production in 1969. A biography, that is, in the sense that it s written with a journalistic touch, complete with anecdotes, colourful descriptions and lots of background to the period. This means it feels less like a dry history and more like a genuine story, populated with colourful characters. It s full of trivia, sure, but woven together into a compelling narrative.
If there s any fault it s that sometimes it steers clear of controversy. Clashes with Anderson are mentioned, but never explored. You never feel like you get under the skin of the man himself. Overall though, it s FAB. --Dave Golder SFX Magazine, March/2010 issue
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