by Ken Parker
Space Precinct is one of those under
appreciated TV shows that not too many people saw or gave a chance to
when it came out in 1994. The show was watched by me for two
reasons. One, it was sci-fi and two, it was by producer Gerry
Anderson who had numerous terrific TV series such as Stingray,
Thunderbirds, Captain Scarlet, UFO and Space: 1999. Space Precinct
was an idea that was batted around for years, first as a pilot, Space
Police in 1989 and finally was given the green light a few years later. The show had its
charm and despite some problems with finding an identity. Sporting a
good cast, excellent effects, exciting music and all around superb
talent, Space Precinct did fairly well in the UK but failed to
attract audiences in the United States primarily because they were
asleep at 2am (bad time slots).
The look of the series is very familiar
as it appears to be a cop show but in outer space. We have sci-fi
stories and of course, aliens. The make up effects were done by Neil
Gorton (Doctor Who) who produced some excellent aliens including the
two primary races, the Creons and the Tarns. Humans were also
populating the cast including Lt. Brogan (Ted Shackleford) from
Earth. The book, Space Precinct – Unmasked is written by Richard
James, a fresh face in acting. His face would not be seen though in
the show as he played one of the Creons, Orrin. Donning make-up and
prosthetics each day, James would also get to play other parts in the
show.
Richard James has decided to share his
time on this show and includes a wealth of information about the
early beginnings to the wrap of the first season. His point of view
is unique and interesting as it includes his limited perception of
the entire series as well as insights on what the show was going
through with money problems and ratings failings. He brings a nice
sense of humor and perspective that is not jaded nor over joyed with
his experience on the show at the time. He understands, as the narrative goes
on, that it was a job that might lead to better jobs. His enjoyment
of these times also shows through which is contrasted by some of his
fellow actors who were less happy with the series.
The book has little about James and
concentrates more on his involvement on the show. The book also
looks at each episode and includes information about each of those
scripts and what he thought of them at the time. James also pulls
mini interviews and statements from various cast and crew to augment
the text which helps flesh out the structure of the book. We learn more about James as we go along.
As a fan of Space Precinct it was a
surprise to read so much that I did not know about and it certainly
made me want to go back and watch the show again. Richard James is
straight forward but knows how to tease and entertain with his
writing style. Hearing from anyone who played a character 'behind
the mask' is always fascinating to readers because we really don't
know too much from what we see in the finished show.
The book is full of behind the scenes
photos and diagrams that punctuate the overall design which is
pleasing. I know much more about Richard James and Space Precinct.
There is not much out there about the show and so this makes this
book highly sought after for fans. It is also an excellent look at
television production from one of hidden but present cast members.
Not only would Space Precinct and Gerry Anderson fans be interested
in the book but fans of television, movies, sci-fi and the men, and
women behind the mask would also find this book enjoyable.
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