Science Fiction Theatre

In the early 1950s, a groundbreaking series called Science Fiction Theatre emerged, paving the way for adult-oriented science fiction and inspiring Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone. This book explores the series' significance within the growing American television industry of the 1950s, featuring a complete videography and highlighting its contribution to the development of science fiction media.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 277 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2024
Publisher: Wayne State University Press

In the wake of the juvenile space operas of the early 1950s, a groundbreaking series debuted and paved the way for one of viewers' favorite genres today: adult-oriented science fiction. Science Fiction Theatre aired with a fresh anthology-style narrative from the vision of veteran producer Ivan Tors and with compelling narration by Truman Bradley. Created by industry-leading syndicator Ziv Television Programs, the show pioneered a scientifically based approach to aliens, telepathy, and the mysteries of the universe that provided a model for Rod Serling's The Twilight Zone (1959–64) and a myriad of acclaimed programs that followed, including The Outer Limits (1963–65), The Ray Bradbury Theater (1985–92),and Black Mirror (2011–present). This book contextualizes Science Fiction Theatre within the budding American television industry of the 1950s, as powerful networks and independent producers and syndicators vied to create and distribute programming to an audience eager to embrace this new, free medium. Including a complete videography of this historically neglected series, author J. P. Telotte illuminates Science Fiction Theatre as a touchstone for understanding the development of science fiction media and the dynamic nature of early television broadcasting.

Weight: 140g
Dimension: 126 x 178 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780814350294