I haven't written here in a while. This is mainly because I was finishing up the audio portion of the Vic and Sade website. And just as soon as I had thought I was going to be finished there, I had the gift of another researcher dropping gobs of more research in my lap; but I couldn't be happier.
Anyway, in a matter of about two weeks' time, I relistened to 21st Precinct. Yes, that meant listening for hours and hours a day.
It wasn't a chore by any stretch. What a wonderful program that was. It rivals - if not surpasses - Dragnet and is head and shoulder above every other cop show.
As I mentioned once before, the only drawback to the show is the "ringing" of the telephone. I simply cannot stand that aspect. But that aside, I give it props on acting, sound effects and especially the writing. Some of those scenarios are very real.
My favorite remains Case of the Sailor's Family. A sailor comes home on leave, unexpectedly, only to find his apartment has burned down and his wife and child are missing. There's some real drama there.
Another favorite is The Murdered Twins. It looks like a young woman has murdered her tiny twin boys. All the facts seem to be against her. That's some good radio.
I single those two out but the show has literally dozens of gems in it.
There sound is bad in a few episodes but none are so bad that you can't understand what is going on.
If you haven't taken the time to download and listen to the series, you are missing something!
I plan to download these shows and start listening. Thanks for your review as it has motivated me to listen. Perhaps better than Dragnet, I will see.
ReplyDeleteOne of my favorites, too. One thing you didn't mention is the novel decision not to have music in the series. I find the absence of music works really well in this show and enhances its strong real-life feel. The scripts and the acting are great, the sound effects well-done, definitely one of the best shows ever and I'm so glad to hear to hear an expert echo what I have thought for a long time now.
ReplyDeleteNorman, I hadn't really thought about the fact that there is no music; but you are right. Kind of makes it more real, too!
ReplyDeleteThanks.