There are many "Thriller" episodes that raise the goosebumps, but the one I will never forget, "La Strega" (Italian for "The Witch") remains to haunt me to this day. Starring the great Jeanette Nolan, Ursula Andress and Alejandro Rey ("The Flying Nun"), it told the story of an artist (Rey) who falls in love with the granddaughter (Andress) of a witch (Nolan). When I saw this, back in the late sixties, it was on late night TV. Just the truly evil appearance of Nolan gave me nightmares for a week. Every few years it would be broadcast again (always late at night) and I would always watch. And the nightmares would return (no other film, TV show or book ever scared me as much} stronger than ever. A few years ago, thirty years since the last time I saw it, it was shown on the Sci-Fi channel. No nightmares this time, but I made a point of making sure every door and window was locked before I went to bed because this time, like all the previous ones, I happened to be alone.
29 Reviews
Boris Karloff Was The Best.
AaronCapenBanner16 August 2013
Never saw this series before I watched the DVD set, I was mostly impressed by it, though it took a awhile to find its way. It started out with crime "thrillers", which ranged from moderately interesting to instantly forgettable, though when it showcased horror, it really hummed, with presentations like 'The Hungry Glass', 'The Grim Reaper', & 'Pigeons From Hell' being the standouts.
Boris Karloff presented all 67 episodes, and was as effective a host for this, as Rod Serling was for "The Twilight Zone". Karloff was in my view the greatest horror film actor who ever lived, and appeared in several episodes, the best of which was 'The Incredible Doktor Markensen'.
Not as moralizing as "The Twilight Zone", this series was noticeably grimmer in tone, though wonderfully filmed in Black & White.
If you can get past the crime episodes, this is well worth viewing.
Boris Karloff presented all 67 episodes, and was as effective a host for this, as Rod Serling was for "The Twilight Zone". Karloff was in my view the greatest horror film actor who ever lived, and appeared in several episodes, the best of which was 'The Incredible Doktor Markensen'.
Not as moralizing as "The Twilight Zone", this series was noticeably grimmer in tone, though wonderfully filmed in Black & White.
If you can get past the crime episodes, this is well worth viewing.
The best of Thriller equals the best of The Twilight Zone
farthngdr10 July 2015
This TV series, of which I never knew until MeTV started broadcasting episodes, is a sheer delight. As a lifetime fan of The Twilight Zone, a series where I have seen almost all the episodes multiple times, discovering Thriller is like getting a brand new version of TZ, with a whopping 60-plus episodes. Having said that, just like TZ, not every episode of Thriller is a winner. But patience is rewarded. The most chilling stories, like La Strega, are so striking and memorable because of good storytelling, acting, and beautiful black and white cinematography. Even middling episodes can pack a punch. For TZ fans who wish there were still more installments to enjoy that they have never seen before, Thriller is a real pleasure and a valuable find. Get the DVD box set and be transported back to the Golden Age of horror television.
The Hungry Glass
daler21824 August 2003
Amazing how many of you remember the "Hungry Glass" episode. I was only about 9 years old at the time, and still vividly remember it as the scariest TV show I ever saw. What astounds me is that, with all the cable channels and all the JUNK programmed on them, they don't seem to find a slot to rerun these Thriller classics. It's a shame.
Thrilling throwback to the golden age of horror
Artimidor7 July 2013
Never judge a book by its cover, and the same applies to TV programmes as well. Because what we've got here is not so much thriller fare in the traditional sense - this only applies to the early and mostly poor episodes of this 60s anthology series. From then on pure Gothic horror reigns, it's all about magic, mystery and supernatural happenings at their very best, typical thriller stuff just makes up the seasoning for the remainder of the show. And as a real treat it's all hosted by the great Boris "Frankenstein" Karloff himself, horror icon of the first hour - back then in the 30s, the golden age of horror, when Universal invented the monster movie. Karloff is also the reason why executives eventually went for the U-turn and gave the audience what they really wanted: sinister suspenseful drama in haunted castles, dubious figures crossing foggy moors, cemeteries that become alive, strange encounters in spooky old houses, skeletons in the closet all inclusive. Monsters, wizards, witches, ghosts, murderers, demons, even the devil and the grim reaper have gathered to send some shivers down your spine... The whole package comes in crisp black and white cinematography, complete with eerie shadows, thunder and lightning, and it's all about mood and atmosphere.
With all these tasty ingredients for an exquisite horror show at hand the likable grandfatherly Karloff himself isn't satisfied with just presenting, but joins the cast on several occasions. With him on the show starring in several episodes is one of the greatest unsung villains in film history, Henry Daniell, among other things in an unforgettable pairing with Ted "(Addams Family's) Lurch" Cassidy, also William Shatner shines twice, as does John Carradine, and there's always the character actor in perfection Edward Andrews to name just a few prime examples of audience favorites. In short: "Thriller" became a show inspired by the fans of classic horror, with everything that represents it, as is also made clear by listing some writing credits: Robert Bloch ("Psycho") contributes no less than ten episodes, there's Cornell Woolrich ("Rear Window") in the mix, Richard Matheson and Charles Beaumont (both writers along with Serling on the "Twilight Zone"). Furthermore included are adaptations of classic Poe tales or e.g. another version of James M. Cain's classic "Double Indemnity". Head musician of the show and thus crucial for sustaining atmosphere is no other than the legendary Jerry Goldsmith in absolute top form. Sounds thrilling? It is! Guess in a way the title is not that misleading after all...
With all these tasty ingredients for an exquisite horror show at hand the likable grandfatherly Karloff himself isn't satisfied with just presenting, but joins the cast on several occasions. With him on the show starring in several episodes is one of the greatest unsung villains in film history, Henry Daniell, among other things in an unforgettable pairing with Ted "(Addams Family's) Lurch" Cassidy, also William Shatner shines twice, as does John Carradine, and there's always the character actor in perfection Edward Andrews to name just a few prime examples of audience favorites. In short: "Thriller" became a show inspired by the fans of classic horror, with everything that represents it, as is also made clear by listing some writing credits: Robert Bloch ("Psycho") contributes no less than ten episodes, there's Cornell Woolrich ("Rear Window") in the mix, Richard Matheson and Charles Beaumont (both writers along with Serling on the "Twilight Zone"). Furthermore included are adaptations of classic Poe tales or e.g. another version of James M. Cain's classic "Double Indemnity". Head musician of the show and thus crucial for sustaining atmosphere is no other than the legendary Jerry Goldsmith in absolute top form. Sounds thrilling? It is! Guess in a way the title is not that misleading after all...
This scary series rates right next to "One Step Beyond."!!
penwil0915 July 2003
Boris Karloffs' prelude monologue and narratives for "Thriller" provided the absolute best in issuing the most "spine-tingling", "white-knuckler" scariest series, next to One Step Beyond, on television!!! Unlike Twilight Zone;OuterLimits; Hitchcock; X-Files and Tales from the Crypt which provided some humorous/light-hearted episodes for the "faint of heart"! Thriller and "O.S.B." kept us scared out of our wits every week and hungry for more!!! NOTHING has ever come close to those series....often wondered why...maybe too many wimps and censors around now..too bad!!! Does anyne know where they sell those series??
Good news Thriller fans!!
branch-morris1 June 2019
Cable Channel MeTV on Spectrum is now showing episodes of Thriller on Sunday Nights!! I've never heard or seen this show!! From the advertisements which are creepy and reviews on this site i am beyond excited!! I record every Twilight Zone & Alfred Hitchcock Hour & Alfred Hitchcock Presents!! MeTV airs those shows as well!!
Prepare to be Scared To Death!
carlsbadrn26 June 2006
Warning: Spoilers
When Thriller first came on TV I didn't pay much attention to it. Naturally I watched it because I heard that Boris Karloff would be the host and assumed these would be one hour mini movies of horror. Nothing could be farther from the truth! They were mystery shows, told in segments with Boris telling us a bit about the show before each episode began. Thriller was doomed from the start. It seemed it didn't know which direction to follow and each show was in no way related to the previous one; ranging from mystery to comedy. I soon grew tired of this and went back to Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Then came that fateful night. I decided to give it another try. After airing something like 14 episodes I tuned in to one titled The Cheaters. It started out grimly enough with a hanging and Boris, with that wonderful voice, assuring us that this would be a Thriller. Well, by the final episode when Harry Townes dons the special eyeglasses and looks into the mirror, what he sees sent me into total goosebump shock! I had nightmares for a week. It's all I could talk about at school. For a 12 year old boy this was the scariest thing I had ever seen. So I watched again the following week. This time it was an episode called The Hungry Glass with William Shatner. A creepy old house with images appearing in the windows, a really horrific ending, but still not as scary as last week. OK, I said to myself, this isn't so bad. Sure enough the next few episodes went back to murder and suspense and I again lost interest. But along comes Well of Doom which was a mystery in disguise. They tried to trick a wealthy man with magic and a giant hulk of a man to gain possession of his estate. At the end we discover all the horrors had been staged and the man ended up scaring his tormentors half to death! Directors on this show ranged from Ida Lupino to John Brahm, one of the finest TV and movie directors of all time. The rest of the season went back and forth between horror and mystery and again I stopped watching. But I did catch the last show of the season and I'm glad I did. Called "The Grim Reaper" it starred William Shatner. His wealthy aunt had purchased a painting of the grim reaper, a really horrid thing, and when Shatner comes for a visit he tells a tale of murder and intrigue and terror. Those who owned the painting all met violent deaths. As he tells his story to his aunt and guests he stops, looks at the painting, touches it, then turns toward his audience extending his hand. There's blood on his fingertips! At the end, his aunt dies and no one is left in the house except the secretary. Shatner explains the whole thing was a gag to scare the old lady and get her fortune. The secretary locks him in the room with the painting and goes for help. I shall never forget what happens next as long as I live. Alone in the room he taunts the painting, wallowing in his victory. But when he turns to see what made a noise he sees the character in the painting is gone! He looks around. There is no music, only deadly silence as the look on his face says it all. He is so terrified he can't even scream; no sound comes out. What does he see? Finally the police arrive and break down the door. The inspector and his partner find Shatner dead on the floor. Then someone says, "Oh my God. Look at the painting!" The camera slowly zooms in and we see blood dripping from the scythe. I thought that since I was so young yeah, that's why it scared me. I bought this episode on videotape and played it again. Knowing the plot, knowing what would happen, and being 58 years old, I still got chills at the end! Karloff himself appeared in several episodes, and to fans there's a top 20 list of the best shows. They include the ones I just mentioned of course plus The Incredible Doctor Markesan, A Wig for Miss Devore, Waxworks and more. Sadly the show went off the air that second year but it left it's mark on TV history. Stephen King was influenced by it, as was I. The one episode that scared both of us was Pigeons From Hell. He was inspired to write several stories watching this and I won a short story contest at that time. I also didn't sleep for weeks after seeing it. It was scarier than any horror movie of the time, and most of today! In fact, this episode would not even be allowed on TV today. The censors would not allow it. Critics hated it, fans were confused, so much behind the scenes bickering finally killed off Thriller. Yet Hitchcock was so envious of the show he expanded his own show to one hour, a terrible mistake. While his little stories worked well in the half hour format, the one hour shows did not. If you have never seen this classic horror fest by all means do so. It's black and white which adds to its air of suspense and terror. Sit back and prepare to see something you will never see on TV again!
Marvelous Anthology Series
Hitchcoc19 March 2019
It's a shame that so many think of Boris Karloff as that guy who played Frankenstein's monster. He was a great actor and had a frightening presence. He was the perfect host for this wonderful series. Along with The Twilight Zone and Alfred Hitchcock Presents, this was a benchmark series. The quality of the writing, the wonderful collection of major stars made this work. I wish there were a mainstream anthology series on network TV. When we look at the lowest common denominator stuff pushed on us, wouldn't it be nice.
Chilling Tales
hellraiser72 June 2015
This is another one of my favorite TV shows of all time as well as horror anthologies it's number three in my book. It's another relic from my childhood since I saw this when I was about ten, I was into the anthologies like "The Twilight Zone", "Are You Afraid of the Dark", you name it, this show was a welcome surprise to me and another great addition to my collection.
There isn't much I can say about it, despite how old it is I feel it's actually held up extraordinarily well which just goes to show how timeless the quality of a shows content can truly be. Yeah, it's in black and white but I don't mind that in fact I feel the use of it just adds to the dark and creepy atmosphere of the show, almost gives the show sort of a dream like quality. Even the theme to the TV show is pretty good if not the most memorable but good enough to evoke a sense of suspense.
The host Boris Karloff is fantastic and he perfectly fits since he is a horror alumni. Just seeing him give an introductory to each of the tales is just music to my ears and makes me wish if they ever did another anthology horror to have a horror movie actor/actress host or even a director in that genre (if he or she are capable of hosting).
Each of the tales are divided into two kinds of thrillers. Some are suspense stories and some are supernatural, have both these types in the same show I thought was a great idea because it really gave the show a sense of variety. As well as sense of mystery as we never really knew what type of thriller we were going to get, but all the same it was going to be a heck of a thrill ride.
There are a lot of great episodes, few of my favorite stories are "Mascarade" which is great because things aren't what they seem hence the title. "Pigions from Hell" which I always found creepy let alone it was based on a short story from one of my favorite author's Robert E Howard. "The Grim Repper" which I also found creepy despite not seeing The Reeper at all, it works because what you don't see makes it all the more scare because the thought of him and what occurs just feeds our imaginations. And on a side note really like the painting which is spooky but cool looking at the same time.
Thriller is a thrill ride.
Rating: 4 stars
There isn't much I can say about it, despite how old it is I feel it's actually held up extraordinarily well which just goes to show how timeless the quality of a shows content can truly be. Yeah, it's in black and white but I don't mind that in fact I feel the use of it just adds to the dark and creepy atmosphere of the show, almost gives the show sort of a dream like quality. Even the theme to the TV show is pretty good if not the most memorable but good enough to evoke a sense of suspense.
The host Boris Karloff is fantastic and he perfectly fits since he is a horror alumni. Just seeing him give an introductory to each of the tales is just music to my ears and makes me wish if they ever did another anthology horror to have a horror movie actor/actress host or even a director in that genre (if he or she are capable of hosting).
Each of the tales are divided into two kinds of thrillers. Some are suspense stories and some are supernatural, have both these types in the same show I thought was a great idea because it really gave the show a sense of variety. As well as sense of mystery as we never really knew what type of thriller we were going to get, but all the same it was going to be a heck of a thrill ride.
There are a lot of great episodes, few of my favorite stories are "Mascarade" which is great because things aren't what they seem hence the title. "Pigions from Hell" which I always found creepy let alone it was based on a short story from one of my favorite author's Robert E Howard. "The Grim Repper" which I also found creepy despite not seeing The Reeper at all, it works because what you don't see makes it all the more scare because the thought of him and what occurs just feeds our imaginations. And on a side note really like the painting which is spooky but cool looking at the same time.
Thriller is a thrill ride.
Rating: 4 stars
Don't judge the series based on only a few shows....like many anthology shows, there are good ones and horrid ones.
planktonrules24 October 2018
I tried watching the "Thriller" series several years ago and quickly gave up. I just didn't enjoy the shows and the episodes were not especially thrilling. Well, recently I tried again...and found I did enjoy some of the shows very much. It turns out that like most (or all) anthology shows, there are winner and loser episodes. It turned out that the early season one shows were particularly dull and the show did improve over time. But, considering it only lasted two seasons, you can assume the public didn't exactly embrace it.
So my advice to you is read through the reviews and pick the best episodes to watch first...and then, perhaps...see the others later. A few I strongly recommend are "The Prediction", "The Poisoner", "A Good Imagination", "Mr. George", "Masquerade" and "A Wig for Miss Devore".
By the way, it is rather funny to me that in many of his introductions Boris Karloff says that the show is scary or exciting and guarantees it "...if my name isn't Boris Karloff". In actual fact, his given name was NOT Boris nor Karloff but was William Henry Pratt!!!!
So my advice to you is read through the reviews and pick the best episodes to watch first...and then, perhaps...see the others later. A few I strongly recommend are "The Prediction", "The Poisoner", "A Good Imagination", "Mr. George", "Masquerade" and "A Wig for Miss Devore".
By the way, it is rather funny to me that in many of his introductions Boris Karloff says that the show is scary or exciting and guarantees it "...if my name isn't Boris Karloff". In actual fact, his given name was NOT Boris nor Karloff but was William Henry Pratt!!!!
I had forgotten this classic horror series gem...now back on tv in Oct 2019 in STL
katanaguy21 October 2019
WOW....I had forgotten about this great horror series through the years. I watched it as a young kid and IT WAS VERY SCARY for this young boy back then.
It has returned to a local St Louis, Mo channel ---KNLC on Late Monday nights at 1 am....yet I DVR them and watch them later.
So glad to have this back!....its just great.
So glad to have this back!....its just great.
Haunting and Effective Program
laffinsal3 April 2004
There's no doubt about it, that this show had some of the eeriest and most unsettling stories to ever be aired on network TV. However, it would (I feel), be naive to think this show was the best of its kind. Like other anthology shows of its genre (NIGHT GALLERY, THE TWILIGHT ZONE, etc.) it suffers from a hodgepodge of dull scripts, mixed in with some genuinely effective ones. While the good on this series could be really good, the weaker shows could be insufferably boring. As a horror/fantasy enthusiast, it's those shows which I enjoy the most from this series, but the non-horror, the crime "thriller"s, those are generally a disappointment.
That aside, the horror segments on this show are some of the best ever done for television. Very moody, atmospheric pieces, suitably filmed in black and white. I suppose one could say that this series is what THE TWILIGHT ZONE would have been like, had it been a horror show, or what NIGHT GALLERY would have been like, had it been in black and white. Boris Karloff introduces each segment, in his usual drawl, but although he does fairly well at that, he doesn't have quite the same eerie restraint that Serling had on his series'.
Among some of the better segments on this show, that I enjoy:
"The Weird Tailor": Extremely clever story, with perhaps the most chilling final moments of any of the THRILLER episodes.
"A Wig for Miss Devore": One of Patricia Barry's best roles, and one of THRILLER's best shows.
"The Remarkable Mrs. Hawk": Jo Van Fleet is great in this one, as is John Carradine. This plays like a dark comedy...twisted and fun.
"The Cheaters": Most remember the final moments from this episode, but the whole show is very well done.
Definitely a series worth checking out for horror fans, and those who appreciate quality television. It's a shame this series doesn't get enough of the credence it deserves. It's not perfect, but it's certainly not without its laurels.
That aside, the horror segments on this show are some of the best ever done for television. Very moody, atmospheric pieces, suitably filmed in black and white. I suppose one could say that this series is what THE TWILIGHT ZONE would have been like, had it been a horror show, or what NIGHT GALLERY would have been like, had it been in black and white. Boris Karloff introduces each segment, in his usual drawl, but although he does fairly well at that, he doesn't have quite the same eerie restraint that Serling had on his series'.
Among some of the better segments on this show, that I enjoy:
"The Weird Tailor": Extremely clever story, with perhaps the most chilling final moments of any of the THRILLER episodes.
"A Wig for Miss Devore": One of Patricia Barry's best roles, and one of THRILLER's best shows.
"The Remarkable Mrs. Hawk": Jo Van Fleet is great in this one, as is John Carradine. This plays like a dark comedy...twisted and fun.
"The Cheaters": Most remember the final moments from this episode, but the whole show is very well done.
Definitely a series worth checking out for horror fans, and those who appreciate quality television. It's a shame this series doesn't get enough of the credence it deserves. It's not perfect, but it's certainly not without its laurels.
The scariest half hours ever shown on TV
rbsjrx1 July 2008
Using only B&W, atmosphere, and high quality scripts from writers who really knew how to scare you, "Thriller" remains unsurpassed in creating hauntingly memorable shows that people remember. No gore, no expensive FX, just great scary storytelling. I can still watch episodes from almost 50 years ago and get really creeped out.
Compared with other similar anthology shows, the only one which approached it for scare value was "One Step Beyond". As much as I liked "The Twilight Zone", its shows never scared me as much as "Thriller". "The Outer Limits", OTOH, never impressed me much. It was too far ahead of its time and needed to wait for the age of CGI FX to be effective.
Like those other shows, it's interesting to see them again and see the talent involved - both in front of and behind the camera. Going through the credits, you'll see lots of people who would go on to become household names.
UPDATE: I recently found an online specialty video dealer who sells a complete DVD collection of the entire series. It's not cheap ($75), but I was glad to pay it. I'm not sure whether the guidelines will allow me to post the vendor's name, but I found them through Google.
Compared with other similar anthology shows, the only one which approached it for scare value was "One Step Beyond". As much as I liked "The Twilight Zone", its shows never scared me as much as "Thriller". "The Outer Limits", OTOH, never impressed me much. It was too far ahead of its time and needed to wait for the age of CGI FX to be effective.
Like those other shows, it's interesting to see them again and see the talent involved - both in front of and behind the camera. Going through the credits, you'll see lots of people who would go on to become household names.
UPDATE: I recently found an online specialty video dealer who sells a complete DVD collection of the entire series. It's not cheap ($75), but I was glad to pay it. I'm not sure whether the guidelines will allow me to post the vendor's name, but I found them through Google.
Quite a few thrills
midbrowcontrarian24 November 2021
As other reviewers have noted, unlike other anthologies BKP did not have a single theme. The early crime/drama episodes have come in for criticism, though I like this genre at least as much as the supernatural if they are well made. My notional rating of the 62 episodes I was recently able to watch comes out at an average of 5.6. My actual rating of 8 reflects the half dozen I'd like to see again rather than numerous dull period pieces and spooky house stories. I tend not to post ratings of things I'm not inspired to review - just clicking on a number seems a bit too easy. My favourites:
3 Worse than Murder. Constance Ford really puts her heart into being heartless.
15 The Cheaters. Highly rated sci fi episode.
22 The Fingers of Fear. As sure as my name isn't Boris Karloff, I liked this one the most, gruesome but realistic. A couple of reviewers liken it to M (1931). With its big unattractive suspect plus an obsession with dolls it put me in mind of the excellent The Strangler (1964).
37 The Grim Reaper. Deservedly well liked, probably the most horrific episode.
50 The Remarkable Mrs Hawke. Entertaining black comedy/drama about a beguiling woman farmer whose pigs are healthy but for some reason the men she employs don't last very long.
56 A Wig for Miss Devore. Ageing actress played by Patricia Barry obtains an ancient wig that makes her look young, but at a terrible cost. There was some reviewer criticism of the makeup, but her sultry voice was instantly recognisable.
3 Worse than Murder. Constance Ford really puts her heart into being heartless.
15 The Cheaters. Highly rated sci fi episode.
22 The Fingers of Fear. As sure as my name isn't Boris Karloff, I liked this one the most, gruesome but realistic. A couple of reviewers liken it to M (1931). With its big unattractive suspect plus an obsession with dolls it put me in mind of the excellent The Strangler (1964).
37 The Grim Reaper. Deservedly well liked, probably the most horrific episode.
50 The Remarkable Mrs Hawke. Entertaining black comedy/drama about a beguiling woman farmer whose pigs are healthy but for some reason the men she employs don't last very long.
56 A Wig for Miss Devore. Ageing actress played by Patricia Barry obtains an ancient wig that makes her look young, but at a terrible cost. There was some reviewer criticism of the makeup, but her sultry voice was instantly recognisable.
Good but not excellent Tv anthology show.
searchanddestroy-121 April 2021
Do not confound it with ALFRED HITCHCOCK PRESENTS and " " HOUR Tv series, from the nearly same period and also a famous, notorious Tv anthology too. In AH series, you always had a twist ending; here, not necessarily. Here, you may deal with "normal" long length features topics, with a predictable ending. But I admit that's not a criterion of quality. A twist ending story may be lousy and a classic ending may also "hide" a fantastic story. Anyway, I won't deny the overall quality of this TV show host by Boris Karloff., there are amazing, terrific episodes, as in ANY series. But I would prefer AH if I take some distance and see the overall show. And this series THRILLER also has the particularity of offer dramas, crime, thrillers, film noir, mystery, horror, and once or twice a bit sci-fi schemes. In AH I may remember that there was not as many lines of directions, it remained dramas and crime. But it sometimes had comedy topics, which is not here, as far as I remember.
THRILLER
dwcacct27 May 2023
I am a young 1963 Model so I NEVER EVEN KNEW THIS EXISTED! I watch METV practically 24/7/365. NO ONE that is rating this series or supplying a Review even mentioned FCC & the Time Period of late 1950's & 1960's! I PERSONALLY DONOT WATCH scary or ANY EXTREME VIOLENT programming?!?! Having opportunities to watch talent such as Boris Karloff in context of EARLY TELEVISION HISTORY IS A TREAT! I found Thriller to be just as exhilarating as Twilight Zone or Alfred Hitchcock as they are from Mid 20th Century programming when USA was still trying to figure out Civil Rights Movement & where we stood on separation of Church & State??
THRILLER Episodes were as well written as their BUDGET probably allowed? It seemed to be a GROUP OF COLLABORATORS, CREATORS, & TALENT! Once I watched SEVERAL rounds of Episodes on METV I grew ready to view SOMETHING new or different in that time slot. I WOULD PURCHASE this on DVD Series set if I found it available. I find myself watching Retro TV bcoz as I find MANY of MY GENERATION can't stand to watch what MOST FILM/TV Executives today pay $$$$ to Broadcast while I do NOT PAY for cable or satellite, I DO PAY $$ & support PBS which if NECESSARY I WOULD ALSO SUPPORT $ Retro TV to represent my affection & Memories of a Precious Time in our World when FAMILIES shared time together & were not afraid for young children to see programming if they unexpectedly walked into the room while the TV was on!!
THRILLER Episodes were as well written as their BUDGET probably allowed? It seemed to be a GROUP OF COLLABORATORS, CREATORS, & TALENT! Once I watched SEVERAL rounds of Episodes on METV I grew ready to view SOMETHING new or different in that time slot. I WOULD PURCHASE this on DVD Series set if I found it available. I find myself watching Retro TV bcoz as I find MANY of MY GENERATION can't stand to watch what MOST FILM/TV Executives today pay $$$$ to Broadcast while I do NOT PAY for cable or satellite, I DO PAY $$ & support PBS which if NECESSARY I WOULD ALSO SUPPORT $ Retro TV to represent my affection & Memories of a Precious Time in our World when FAMILIES shared time together & were not afraid for young children to see programming if they unexpectedly walked into the room while the TV was on!!
One of THE scariest TV series!
Norm-307 January 2000
Even tho I was about 8 years old at the time, I can still vividly recall this series, which used to scare the crap out me!
I especially remember (as mentioned by the other reviewer) the episode "the Hungry Glass"; MAN! Was it scary! If anyone knows where I can get a copy of this episode, PLEASE let me know!
Several years ago, several episoded were re-issued, but the only memorable ones were the one with William Shatner with the picture of the Grim Reaper, and the one about the man who was buried alive. A disappointing collection.
I hope that they release MORE episodes in the future!
I especially remember (as mentioned by the other reviewer) the episode "the Hungry Glass"; MAN! Was it scary! If anyone knows where I can get a copy of this episode, PLEASE let me know!
Several years ago, several episoded were re-issued, but the only memorable ones were the one with William Shatner with the picture of the Grim Reaper, and the one about the man who was buried alive. A disappointing collection.
I hope that they release MORE episodes in the future!
Most Frightening Horror Show Ever Produced
danm995 December 2003
Karloff's classic 60's 'Thriller' was a rare, haunting gem of some of the scariest horror stories, written by the best authors of the genre. It's 'trademark' was its logo lines that would come in and out before and after the commercial breaks.
Veteran directors such as John Brahm ("Hangover Square") employed dark, baroque german expressionism to evoke a creepy, ominous mood of paranoia. Newcomer, Jerry "Alien" Goldsmith's eerie soundtracks were unsettling and morbidly effective. (Wish it was available on CD).
Karloff's intros were congenial and sinister, and helped to set the stage for the truly suspenseful and frightening tales. He also appeared in a few episodes such as 'Premature Burial', 'Last of the Sommerviles' (with Martita Hunt from "Brides of Dracula") and 'Incredible Dr. Markeson' with Dick "Bewitched" York. The zombies and dank atmosphere of 'Markesan' seemed like a pre-cursor to "Night of the Living Dead." Ending was truly terrifying.
A pre-Kirk William Shatner appeared in two outstanding episodes; 'The Hungry Glass' with Russell "professor" Johnson and 'The Grim Reaper with Natalie "Lovey" Shaffer. Both were written by Robert "Psycho" Bloch and were genuine supernatural classics.
Robert Arthur wrote 'Prisoner in the Mirror' where researcher Lloyd Bochner ends up trapped in a mirror by evil magician Henry "The Body Snatcher" Daniell. The conclusion was unexpected and quite disturbing - something Hollywood would never have the balls to do today with all its "play it safe" and PC crap.
Feminists may find it interesting to know that THRILLER was one of the first shows that had a woman director. It was Ida Lupino, who did a marvelous job on superb episodes like 'La Strega'; that featured a pre-Bond Ursula Andress and Jeanette "The Big Heat" Nolan, who convincingly played the most horrifying witch imaginable. Had a very hard-hitting surprise ending that was not easily forgotton.
Mz. Lupino also created Hitchcockian suspense in Cornell "Rear Window" Woolrich's 'Guilotine', which has a true kicker ending. Fine performance from Robert Middleton as the sensitive romantically jilted executioner.
'Trio for Terror' was another great Lupino-entry which was a trilogy of three short horror tales; among them, "The Extra Passenger" which had the chilling atmosphere of J. Tourneau's "Curse of the Demon." Clever use of subtlety, which we no longer have today.
John "One Step Beyond" Newland directed Robert E. Howard's 'Pigeons from Hell' with Brandon De Wilde, who, with his young brother, spend a memorable night in a old run-down southern mansion. A true terrifying classic and a masterpiece of atmosphere.
There were many more exceptional episodes that need to be re-discovered due to their great, timeless classic merits.
THRILLER was a genuine one-of-a-kind show, and a soaring tribute to the horror genre. There were also many memorable crime episodes that are worth your attention as well; written by top people such as John D. MacDonald ("Cape Fear"), Lionel White ("The Killing"), Fredric Brown, Philip McDonald; etc. Some of the darkest film noir with the most downbeat of endings. Also, there were occasions where episodes would do a criss-cross of the crime and horror genres to great suspenseful effect.
Make it a top priority to check out this remarkable classic series which Stephen King also had the highest praise for.
THRILLER was (and still is) the best of its kind. Needs a revival and full DVD release. Check the thread on the 'Classic TV' message board.
Veteran directors such as John Brahm ("Hangover Square") employed dark, baroque german expressionism to evoke a creepy, ominous mood of paranoia. Newcomer, Jerry "Alien" Goldsmith's eerie soundtracks were unsettling and morbidly effective. (Wish it was available on CD).
Karloff's intros were congenial and sinister, and helped to set the stage for the truly suspenseful and frightening tales. He also appeared in a few episodes such as 'Premature Burial', 'Last of the Sommerviles' (with Martita Hunt from "Brides of Dracula") and 'Incredible Dr. Markeson' with Dick "Bewitched" York. The zombies and dank atmosphere of 'Markesan' seemed like a pre-cursor to "Night of the Living Dead." Ending was truly terrifying.
A pre-Kirk William Shatner appeared in two outstanding episodes; 'The Hungry Glass' with Russell "professor" Johnson and 'The Grim Reaper with Natalie "Lovey" Shaffer. Both were written by Robert "Psycho" Bloch and were genuine supernatural classics.
Robert Arthur wrote 'Prisoner in the Mirror' where researcher Lloyd Bochner ends up trapped in a mirror by evil magician Henry "The Body Snatcher" Daniell. The conclusion was unexpected and quite disturbing - something Hollywood would never have the balls to do today with all its "play it safe" and PC crap.
Feminists may find it interesting to know that THRILLER was one of the first shows that had a woman director. It was Ida Lupino, who did a marvelous job on superb episodes like 'La Strega'; that featured a pre-Bond Ursula Andress and Jeanette "The Big Heat" Nolan, who convincingly played the most horrifying witch imaginable. Had a very hard-hitting surprise ending that was not easily forgotton.
Mz. Lupino also created Hitchcockian suspense in Cornell "Rear Window" Woolrich's 'Guilotine', which has a true kicker ending. Fine performance from Robert Middleton as the sensitive romantically jilted executioner.
'Trio for Terror' was another great Lupino-entry which was a trilogy of three short horror tales; among them, "The Extra Passenger" which had the chilling atmosphere of J. Tourneau's "Curse of the Demon." Clever use of subtlety, which we no longer have today.
John "One Step Beyond" Newland directed Robert E. Howard's 'Pigeons from Hell' with Brandon De Wilde, who, with his young brother, spend a memorable night in a old run-down southern mansion. A true terrifying classic and a masterpiece of atmosphere.
There were many more exceptional episodes that need to be re-discovered due to their great, timeless classic merits.
THRILLER was a genuine one-of-a-kind show, and a soaring tribute to the horror genre. There were also many memorable crime episodes that are worth your attention as well; written by top people such as John D. MacDonald ("Cape Fear"), Lionel White ("The Killing"), Fredric Brown, Philip McDonald; etc. Some of the darkest film noir with the most downbeat of endings. Also, there were occasions where episodes would do a criss-cross of the crime and horror genres to great suspenseful effect.
Make it a top priority to check out this remarkable classic series which Stephen King also had the highest praise for.
THRILLER was (and still is) the best of its kind. Needs a revival and full DVD release. Check the thread on the 'Classic TV' message board.
My number one choice "Thriller" episode.
Kenh77931 May 2003
"Thriller" in the 60's would air on the Local NBC affiliate, Saturday nights at 9 PM. Of all the episodes, and I think I saw them all, had to be "A Wig for Ms. DeVore". Following Marie Antoinette's execution on the gallows, her hair was removed and made into a wig. The owners, of which there were many, all fell under a horrifying curse.For those of you who might come across this episode, BEWARE of the ending. If there was ever an episode of "Thriller" that would cause one to hide their eyes, this has to be the one, hands down.
lots of good scares
dtucker868 October 2003
This was one of the first television "horror anthology" shows. It came on before Twilight Zone and Night Gallery and Tales From The Crypt. Boris Karloff was a wonderful host. He probably scared more people then any other horror star in history. He hosted the show and also acted in it on occasion. I saw the episodes in syndication and didn't think they had aged at all. They had the highest quality horror writers turn out the best scripts and it clicked magnificently. One episode I remember was one with Dick York were Boris was a mad scientist and turned Dick's wife into a zombie before he could rescue her. The final scene showed him screaming in horror at the sight of his zombie bride. I saw that episode as a nine year old and it scared the bejesus out of me. Another episode was one called Yours Truly Jack The Ripper based on a short story by Robert Bloch (he's the man who wrote Psycho). It had a really neat twist at the end. They didn't use gory special effects on the show and a lot of big name stars got their start on it. They should put it out on video like they did with The Twilight Zone so a new generation can enjoy it and say "They don't do it like that anymore".
Quite simply, the scariest...
rsterr3 June 2003
I was 11 years old when I had the fortunate (though for the sleepless week that followed I didn't think I was so lucky) when I saw the episode 'The Hungry Glass'...of course, being a kid generated its own fright quotient. Certainly 43 years later I could see the same show and laugh at it---maybe. I'll just say this, the sight of the spectres in that damnable mirror has never quite left me...much like the Banshee outside Darby O'Gill's door which I saw at about the same period in my life, causing me to wonder if mere acting can ever work up such emotional involvement again. Or as we age does life's humdrum banish true horrors to some remote chamber we've lost the key to?
TV's Greatest Horror Series
tostinati13 July 2009
Warning: Spoilers
My favorite episode right now is probably The Purple Room, wherein Rip Torn must agree to spend the night alone in an old Louisiana mansion, if he is to inherit it. But I love The Incredible Doktor Markesan, The Remarkable Mrs. Hawk, Guillotine, The Cheaters, Kill My Love and La Strega. All the episodes are, at very least, expertly-crafted, with good use made of music and good, atmospheric B&W cinematography. I wrote Universal years ago asking why they don't go to DVD with this property, and predictably perhaps, I received no reply at all. A site says that when this series was offered to local stations (as opposed to cable stations, which can break the mold in many ways) several years ago, there was not one taker. That shook me. Armed with that figure, the people at Universal will probably never DVD the series. But since there's evidence that they have an audience ready and waiting for this series, and with money to buy it if it was available, the studio seems to keep blowing it. The internet auction sites have had the complete Thriller for a song for several years now, which edges into the copyright holder's potential market. But it isn't too late to do this package right and offer something the off-air recorders and resellers can't offer, like commentaries or a well-researched and serious documentary on the series. But they need to move on it. The people who care about this series, were involved in it in some way, however distant, or are authoritative on it are not increasing in number, nor are they getting younger. Universal really needs to give this the full treatment, and NOW. So what's the hold-up?
Classic Horror Series
DELUGE693 December 2003
To this day, Karloff's brilliant 60's THRILLER ranks the highest. It also still scares all hell out of me. Do you need a more glowing recommendation than that?
Many of the excellent stories were taken from the 'Weird Tales' pulp magazines, and it was that rare case that the writer's adaptations actually surpassed the original bizarre plots. Usually, it's the opposite aggrevations. The notable authors consisted of Robert Bloch, Richard Matheson, Augest Derelith, Cornell ('Rear Window') Woolrich, John D. MacDonald ('Cape Fear'), Philip McDonald and Poe; etc. Also, Donald S. Sanford (the 'Outer Limit's' "The Guests" episode) wrote many outstanding scripts for the show. One was 'Ordeal of Dr. Cordell' as a pre-UNCLE Robert Vaughn appears as a scientist who gets exposed to a deadly nerve gas. He survives, but whenever he hears the sound of a bell, he goes beserk and commits brutal murders. The frightening ending in the bell tower is excruciating. Their only foray into Science-Fiction, complete with a dark and forboding 'Outer Limits' mood.
Other memorable episodes were:
1) THE CHEATERS - a Bloch tale about a pair of accursed eye glasses, and the devastating effects they have on those who put them on. A true paranoia excursion into hell.
2) THE GRIM REAPER - another Bloch story about a grusome painting that carries a deadly curse. Stars a 'pre-Kirk' William Shatner. A thoroughly chilling score from Jerry "Alien" Goldsmith.
3) WAXWORKS - Bloch again. A creepy wax museum of infamous murders may be responsible for a few grisly murders. Superb script is a clever blending of the film noir mystery crossed with the supernatural horror genres. A great performance from Oscar "Mr. Sardonicus" Homolka & a "pre-Tarzan" Ron Ely.
4) PIGEONS FROM HELL - scary Robert E. Howard story about two teenage brothers who end up having to spend the night in an old, deserted southern mansion. They soon learn the meaning of 'regret'.
I'll stop here, and encourage you to check out this haunting memorable show.
Many of the excellent stories were taken from the 'Weird Tales' pulp magazines, and it was that rare case that the writer's adaptations actually surpassed the original bizarre plots. Usually, it's the opposite aggrevations. The notable authors consisted of Robert Bloch, Richard Matheson, Augest Derelith, Cornell ('Rear Window') Woolrich, John D. MacDonald ('Cape Fear'), Philip McDonald and Poe; etc. Also, Donald S. Sanford (the 'Outer Limit's' "The Guests" episode) wrote many outstanding scripts for the show. One was 'Ordeal of Dr. Cordell' as a pre-UNCLE Robert Vaughn appears as a scientist who gets exposed to a deadly nerve gas. He survives, but whenever he hears the sound of a bell, he goes beserk and commits brutal murders. The frightening ending in the bell tower is excruciating. Their only foray into Science-Fiction, complete with a dark and forboding 'Outer Limits' mood.
Other memorable episodes were:
1) THE CHEATERS - a Bloch tale about a pair of accursed eye glasses, and the devastating effects they have on those who put them on. A true paranoia excursion into hell.
2) THE GRIM REAPER - another Bloch story about a grusome painting that carries a deadly curse. Stars a 'pre-Kirk' William Shatner. A thoroughly chilling score from Jerry "Alien" Goldsmith.
3) WAXWORKS - Bloch again. A creepy wax museum of infamous murders may be responsible for a few grisly murders. Superb script is a clever blending of the film noir mystery crossed with the supernatural horror genres. A great performance from Oscar "Mr. Sardonicus" Homolka & a "pre-Tarzan" Ron Ely.
4) PIGEONS FROM HELL - scary Robert E. Howard story about two teenage brothers who end up having to spend the night in an old, deserted southern mansion. They soon learn the meaning of 'regret'.
I'll stop here, and encourage you to check out this haunting memorable show.
Favorite Episode
john-perry-41 April 2008
Warning: Spoilers
"The Hungry Glass." There is something creepy about old mirrors, anyway. Especially those tucked away in the attics of creepy old mansions. Just seeing those misty ghosts trapped "under glass" would make the episode unforgettable, but it was made more frightening at the end, with those phantoms beckoning to the living to join them in their looking-glass purgatory. (Not sure, but I think Richard Matheson wrote it.) Years later in college, I saw it again and found it just as effective.
Other favorites included "Pigeons From Hell" with Brandon de Wilde, and "The Storm" with Nancy Kelly. And then there was "Trilogy of Terror," combining three episodes into the 60-minute format.
Other favorites included "Pigeons From Hell" with Brandon de Wilde, and "The Storm" with Nancy Kelly. And then there was "Trilogy of Terror," combining three episodes into the 60-minute format.
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