I'd read that in the early days of television, the new medium was explored by artists with a fresh approach. Experimentation was much more welcome than at the movie studios of that time.
Spurred on by my love of old time radio, I naturally turned to early episodes of Dragnet circa 1951-52 (created, like the radio version, by Jack Webb.)
Disorienting extreme close-ups, claustrophobic framing, dizzying high angles, deep focus photography and dark subject matter make it all so exciting! It truly lives up to the reputation established by the radio program.
2 comments:
I should see some of these. I've been such an episodic TV snob for so long that I've almost forgotten it exists. But these shots look right up my street!
Hiya Brian!
I think you'd like it, it certainly impressed me with its style. Jack Webb did work with Billy Wilder and William Dieterle as an actor, so this works as evidence that he was paying attention.
Apparently "He Walked By Night" was also an inspiration. If its any good, you'll see it here.
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