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Killer in Close-Up

From Alfawiki
Killer in Close-Up
Company typeTelevision series
IndustryTelevision production
Founded1957
Headquarters
Sydney and Melbourne
,
Australia
ProductsLive television drama productions
ParentAustralian Broadcasting Commission

Killer in Close-Up comprised a series of four live television drama productions created by the Australian Broadcasting Commission during 1957 and 1958, regarded as Australia's inaugural anthology series for television.

The production responsibilities were divided between ABC's stations in Melbourne and Sydney. The initial and final episodes originated from Sydney, while the second and third were produced in Melbourne. Each installment lasted about 25 minutes and was overseen by producers Christopher Muir, Raymond Menmuir, and Will Sterling.

The series title alluded to the prominent use of close-up camera shots within the televised dramas. Adapted for the screen by George F. Kerr, the plays depicted true criminal cases:

In Melbourne, the series was scheduled at 8:30 PM, competing with other anthology programs airing on HSV-7 and GTV-9, providing audiences with several options for standalone half-hour dramas.

"The Robert Wood Trial"

This episode was broadcast live from Sydney on 4 September 1957 and later recorded for Melbourne audiences on 4 October 1957, under the direction of Raymond Menmuir.

Plot

Dramatizing the 1907 Camden Town Murder, the story follows Robert Wood’s trial and subsequent acquittal for the killing of a prostitute.

Cast

  • Brian Anderson
  • Leonard Bullen

Production

Featuring twelve performers across nine different sets, the production aimed to showcase emerging techniques in Australian television drama, as highlighted by the Sydney Morning Herald.

"The Wallace Case"

Produced in Melbourne under Christopher Muir’s direction, this episode aired live there on 20 November 1957.

Plot

Set in 1931, it centers on William Herbert Wallace who faces charges for his wife’s murder.

Cast

  • Laurier Lange (also Laurie Lange) portraying William Wallace
  • Noel Howlett in the role of the judge
  • Brian James as prosecutor
  • Norman Griffiths playing defense counsel
  • John Morgan
  • Robert Stevens
  • Campbell Copelin

Production

Muir made extensive use of close-up shots to heighten dramatic tension. George F. Kerr contributed from Sydney by assisting with production tasks and providing narration.

"The Rattenbury Case"

This episode was recorded live in Melbourne and broadcast on 18 June 1958, directed by Will Sterling. The National Archives of Australia may hold a copy of this production.

Plot

The narrative recounts the murder of prominent architect Francis Rattenbury.

Cast

Production

This marked Patricia Kennedy’s first appearance on television after an established acting career.

"The Trial of Madeleine Smith"

Broadcast live from Sydney on 13 August 1958 and subsequently aired in Melbourne on 25 October 1958.

Plot

Set in Glasgow during 1857, it chronicles a young woman’s trial for her lover’s murder, following their initial encounter through to the verdict delivered at Edinburgh Court.

Cast

Production

In 1957, Janette Craig held the title of Miss New South Wales.

See also

External links

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