“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “Curse of the Undead” (1959), this Sat. on Me-TV (And Silver Screen Reflections’ commemoration of Sven/Rich Koz’s 42nd anniversary)!

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Universal Studios ”vampire western” monster/horror masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “Curse of the Undead” (1959)

Original 1959 Universal Studios theatrical release trailer for “Curse of the Undead.”

“His body is an empty shell that hides a lustful friend!” Original 1959 Universal Studios theatrical release trailer for “Curse of the Undead.”

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based classic monster/horror film host will present his big broadcast of “Curse of the Undead” (1959) this Sat., June 19 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The classic 1959 Universal monster/horror/vampire western masterpiece was directed by veteran film and TV director Edward Dein.  One year after “Curse of the Undead,” Dein directed the classic Universal sci-fi/fantasy/creature masterpiece production of “The Leech Woman” (1960) with  Coleen Gray, Estelle Hemsley, Kim Hamilton, Grant Williams, Phillip Terry, Gloria Talbott and Paul Thompson.  Dein later directed 14 episodes of the Warner Bros./ABC television detective series, “Hawaiian Eye” with Poncie Ponce, Connie Stevens and Robert Conrad (Dien directed his episodes of Warners’ “Hawaiian Eye” from 1959-62).  Dein also directed two episodes of the CBS television western-fantasy masterpiece series, “The Wild Wild West” (“The Night of the Freebooters” and “The Night of the Two-Legged Buffalo,” both were produced in 1966) and three episodes of the Stephen J. Cannell-Universal Studios-NBC television wartime drama series with Robert Conrad, Simon Oakland, Dana Elcar, James Whitmore Jr., Dirk Blocker, W.K. Stratton, Jeff MacKay, Larry Manetti and young John Larroquette;  “Baa Baa Black Sheep/Black Sheep Squadron.” (Dein filmed his three episodes from 1977-78).

“Curse of the Undead” (1959) was produced by veteran Universal Studios feature film music department supervisor Joseph Gershenson.  Gershenson supervised the source orchestral music soundtrack scores for Jack Arnold’s classic Universal mammoth monster masterpiece with Julie Adams, Ricou Browning, Ben Chapman, Richard Carlson, Richard Denning, Nestor Paiva and Whit Bissell, “Creature From the Black Lagoon” (1954) and Orson Welles’ classic Universal film noir-drama masterpiece adaptation of Whit Masterson’s “Badge of Evil;” “Touch of Evil” (1958) with Janet Leigh, Welles, Charlton Heston, Joanna Moore, young Dennis Weaver and Ray Collins.

In addition to directing the classic 1959 Universal vampire western/monster/horror masterpiece, Edward Dein co-wrote the original screenplay for “Curse of the Undead” (1958) with his wife, Mildred Dein.

This will mark Sven’s fourth big broadcast of “Curse of the Undead” (1959) on Me-TV. He previously showcased the classic 1959 Universal monster/horror/vampire western masterpiece back in Oct. 2013 as a big coast-to-coast broadcast premiere, Aug. 2014 and Aug. 2017.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Universal Studios sci-fi creature masterpiece with many familiar faces.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955)

Original 1955 Universal Studios theatrical release trailer for “Cult of the Cobra” (1955).

Original 1955 Universal Studios theatrical poster artwork for “Cult of the Cobra.”

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based sci-fi/creature film host will present his big broadcast of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) this Sat., June 5 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The classic 1955 Universal sci-fi/creature/fantasy masterpiece production was directed by veteran editor/film & TV director Francis D. Lyon.  Lyon previously worked as an editorial department official on Robert Rossen’s classic critically-acclaimed film noir/drama/boxing masterpiece with John Garfield and Lilli Palmer, “Body and Soul” (1947).  Lyons also directed four episodes of the classic long-running CBS television masterpiece adaptation of Erle Stanley Gardner’s “Perry Mason” with Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William Hopper and William Talman (Lyon directed four episodes in 1962) and the cult classic feature film horror-thriller masterpiece for National Telefilm Associates (NTA)’s World Entertainment Corporation moniker with Virginia Mayo, Hugh Marlowe and Scott Brady; “Castle of Evil” (1966).  Lyon’s production of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) was produced by veteran assistant director-turned-producer-turned production executive Howard Pine.  The same year that he produced “Cult of the Cobra,” Pine also produced Abner Biberman’s classic Universal film noir-drama masterpiece production of “Running Wild” (1955) with Mamie Van Doren, Keenan Wynn and William Campbell.  In the latter part of his film career, Pine served as a unit production manager for John G. Avildsen’s modern classic Columbia Pictures action-drama masterpiece with Noriyuki “Pat” Morita, Ralph Macchio and Elisabeth Shue; “The Karate Kid” (1984).

The original story idea for Lyon’s classic Universal sci-fi/creature/fantasy masterpiece production of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) was written by veteran film and TV producer Jerry Davis.  Davis’ original story treatment for “Cult of the Cobra” was adapted into a screenplay by veteran screenwriters Richard Collins and Cecil Maiden.

This will mark Sven’s fifth big coast-to-coast broadcast of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) on Me-TV.  He previously showcased Lyon’s classic 1955 Universal sci-fi/creature/fantasy masterpiece back in Jan. 2013, Oct. 2013, June 2015, and July 2016.

In Sven/Rich Koz’s home area of Berwyn/Chicago during his days as the “Son of Svengoolie” from 1979-86, (Son of) Sven previously showcased Lyon’s classic Universal sci-fi/creature/fantasy production of “Cult of the Cobra: (1955) as a Berwyn/Chicago big broadcast on WFLD/32 back in May 1980, according to Berwyn/Chicago television archivist Rick Klein’s “FuzzyMemoriesTV: The Museum of Classic Chicago Television” official YouTube site.  Also in Sven/Rich Koz’s home area of Berwyn/Chicago, Svengoolie also aired “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) as a WCIU-TV 26/”The U”* big Berwyn/Chicago broadcast back in Jan. 1997, according to IMDB.

Who was in “Cult of the Cobra” (1955)?

The players who appeared in Francis D. Lyon’s classic Universal sci-fi/creature/fantasy masterpiece production of “Cult of the Cobra” (1955) were Faith Domergue (as Lisa Moya), Richard Long (as Paul Able), David Janssen (as Rico Nardi), Marshall Thompson (as Tom Markle), Kathleen Hughes (as Julia Thompson), Jack Kelly (as Carl Turner), Edward Platt (in an uncredited role as a Lamian threatening death), William Reynolds (as Pete Norton), Olan Soule (as Maj. Martin Fielding), Myrna Hansen (as Marian Sheehan), Leonard Strong (as Daru), James Dobson (as Cpl. Nick Hommel), Walter Coy (as a Police Inspector), Ruth Carlsson and Carl Carlsson (as cult dancers, credited under the name of the Carlssons),  Helen Wallace (as Mrs. Weber), Mary Alan Hokanson (as an Army Nurse), John Halloran (as a Lamian High Priest) and Alan Reynolds (as Capt. Steve Williams).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945, an “Inner Sanctum” mystery), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of classic Universal Studios mystery-thriller masterpiece from a mystery novel series.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945, an “Inner Sanctum” mystery)

Truncated trailer for Harold Young’s classic Universal Studios “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller masterpiece production of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) with Lon Chaney Jr. Note:  The altered trailer was re-purposed by Universal’s rival, Columbia Pictures’ Screen Gems television unit; Universal leased the TV syndication licensing rights to the pre-1948 Universal Studios sound feature film library to rival Columbia/Screen Gems in 1957, notably for the classic Universal monster/horror/thriller/mystery feature film masterpieces in the  “Shock!” and “Son of Shock!” TV film syndication packages (with the 1955-60 Screen Gems TV variant of the Columbia opening/closing logo ).  The television rights to the pre-1948 Universal sound features reverted back to Universal/MCA in 1971. –C.H.

“The screen’s newest ‘Inner Sanctum’ mystery!” Original 1945 Universal Studios theatrical poster art for “The Frozen Ghost” with Lon Chaney Jr.

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based thriller/mystery film host will present his big broadcast of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) from Universal’s “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller series, this Sat.; May 29 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The classic 1945 Universal “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller masterpiece adaptation was directed by veteran feature film editor-director Harold Young.  Young also directed the classic Universal mammoth “Mummy” monster masterpiece installment, The Mummy’s Tomb” (1942, with  Lon Chaney Jr., Elyse Knox, Turhan Bey, George Zucco, Dick Foran and Wallace Ford).  Young later directed the live-action segments for Walt Disney’s classic mammoth cartoon/live-action masterpiece, “The Three Caballeros” (1944, released through RKO Radio Pictures, which distributed Disney’s productions theatrically at the time).   

Young’s production of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) was produced by veteran Universal producer Will Cowan.  Cowan was known for producing numerous Universal short subject productions for theatrical release throughout his career, including Universal’s classic mammoth 3-D musical short subject masterpiece with legendary crooner Nat “King” Cole and orchestral composer Russ Morgan, “Nat ‘King’ Cole and Russ Morgan and His Orchestra” (1953); Cowan’s 1953 production with Cole and Morgan was the studio’s first live-action 3-D theatrical short subject production.  Cowan’s feature-length Universal involvements include his classic studio mammoth creatur-thriller  masterpiece production of “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958) with William Reynolds, Andra Martin and Jeffrey Stone and  the studio’s classic rock n’ roll/jazz music revue masterpiece of “The Big Beat” (1958) with legends Fats Domino, Rose Marie, The Mills Brothers, The Diamonds, Cal Tjader, The Del-Vikings, young Vince Guaraldi (Guaraldi later composed the music for Charles M. Schultz’s classic Charlie Brown/Peanuts animated television masterpiece specials, beginning in 1965 until his death in 1976) and Hans Conreid.   The original story idea for “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) was written by veteran screenwriters Harrison Carter and Henry Sucher.  Sucher, along with veteran screenwriters Luci Ward and Bernard Schubert wrote the screenplay adaptation of the “The Frozen Ghost.”

Young’s production of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) was the fourth Universal “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller masterpiece feature production in the series.  The other Universal “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller feature film masterpieces were “Calling Dr. Death” (1943, directed by Reginald Le Borg), “Weird Woman” (1944, directed by Le Borg), “Dead Man’s Eyes” (1944, directed by Le Borg), “Strange Confession” (1945, directed by John Hoffman) and “Pillow of Death” (1945, directed by Wallace Fox).  The Universal “Inner Sanctum” films were based off of the “Inner Sanctum” mystery novel series published by Simon & Schuster.   In addition to the Universal “Inner Sanctum” film franchise series, the Simon & Schuster “Inner Sanctum” mystery novels also inspired an “Inner Sanctum” radio mystery-thriller-drama series which lasted from 1941-1952 on the Blue Network/ABC Radio Network and on the CBS Radio Network; according to Ivan G. Shreve Jr.’s retrospective article on the “Inner Sanctum” radio series for the classic radio re-issue recording firm, Radio Spirits.  A short-lived “Inner Sanctum TV series was syndicated on local television stations throughout the United States.  The aforementioned syndicated “Inner Sanctum” television series was distributed to stations by NBC’s syndication unit, according to IMDB.

This will mark Svengooliie’s third coast-to-coast big broadcast of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) on Me-TV. He previously showcased Young’s classic 1945 Universal “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller installment with the junior Chaney back in Sept. 2016, which also marked the debut of the legendary Sven song/music video with legendary singer Freddy “Boom Boom” Cannon, the “Svengoolie Stomp” and in Dec. 2017.

Who was in the classic Universal “Inner Sanctum” mystery-thriller production of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945)?

The players who appeared in Harold Young’s classic Universal “Inner Sanctum”  mystery-thriller masterpiece production of “The Frozen Ghost” (1945) were Lon Chaney Jr. (as Alex Gregor, a.k.a. “Gregor the Great”), Evelyn Ankers (as Maura Daniel), Milburn Stone (as George Keene), Douglass Dumbrille (as Inspector Brant), Martin Kosleck (as Rudi Polden), Dennis Moore (in an uncredited role as a radio show announcer),  Elena Verdugo (as Nina Coudreau), Tala Birell (as Mme. Valerie Monet), Arthur Hohl (as a skeptic), Helena Phillips Evans (in an uncredited role as an audience member), Wilbur Mack (in an uncredited role as an audience member), Bobby Barber (I an uncredited role as an audience member) and David Hoffman (in an uncredited role as the “Spirit of the Inner Sanctum”).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “King Kong Escapes” (1967), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Toho Studios–Universal Studios mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “King Kong Escapes” (1967)

Original Toho Studios theatrical trailer for the Japanese theatrical release of Ishirô Honda’s classic mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece, “King Kong Escapes” (1967). Universal Studios handled the North American theatrical release of Honda’s production.

Original Toho Studios theatrical poster artwork for the Japanese theatrical release of Ishirô Honda’s classic mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece, “King Kong Escapes” (1967). Universal Studios handled the North American theatrical release of Honda’s production in 1968.

The legendry Berwyn/Chicago-based creature film host will present his big broadcast of “King Kong Escapes” (1967) this Sat., May 22 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

Co-produced by Toho Studios of Japan and released in the states by Universal Studios, the classic 1967 mammoth kaiju creature feature film masterpiece was directed by veteran Toho Studios director Ishirô Honda, who received screen credit in the film under the name of Inoshiro Honda.  Honda’s best known classic mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece productions for Toho Studios of Japan include “Gojira”/”Godzilla” (1954, released/re-purposed in 1956 as “Godzilla: King of the Monsters!” in the United States with Raymond Burr in the North American dub); “Rodan“ (1956), “Mothra” (1961), “King Kong vs. Godzilla” (1962), “Mothra vs. Godzilla” (1964, released in the United States by Samuel Z. Arkoff and James H. Nicholson’s American-International Pictures under the title of “Godzilla vs. the Thing”), “Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster” (1964), “Frankenstein vs. Baragon” (1965), “The War of the Gargantuas” (1966), “Destroy All Monsters” (1968), “All Monsters Attack” (1969, a.k.a. “Godzilla’s Revenge”) and “Terror of Mechagodzilla” (1975).

Honda’s classic 1967 Toho Studios/Universal mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece was produced by veteran Toho Studios producer Tomoyuki Tanaka.  Alongside producing the majority of Honda’s classic mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece productions, Tanaka also served as producer for Akira Kurosawa’s classic mammoth Japanese samurai drama masterpiece with Toshirô Mifune for Toho Studios, “Yojimbo” (1961).  The North American dub of “King Kong Escapes” was produced for Universal Studios by veteran producer Arthur Rankin Jr.  Rankin was known for working with veteran producer Jules Bass on their numerous classic mammoth “Animagic” stop-motion animation holiday television and feature film productions under the name of Rankin/Bass Productions (a.k.a. “Videocraft International”), including “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” (1964) and their classic mammoth Halloween/horror/comedy stop-motion Animagic feature film masterpiece released through Joseph E. Levine’s Embassy Pictures with the vocal characterizations of silver screen horror legend Boris Karloff and comedian legend Phyllis Diller, “Mad Monster Party?” (1967). The North American dub of “King Kong Escapes” (1967) was a joint collaboration between Toho Studios of Japan, Rankin/Bass Productions and Universal Studios.

The screenplay for Honda’s classic mammoth 1967 kaiju creature masterpiece was written by veteran Toho Studios screenwriter Takeshi Kimura, who received screen credit under the pseudonym of Kaoru Mabuchi.  Kimura previously wrote the screenplay for Ishirô Honda’s classic mammoth Toho Studios sci-fi/mystery masterpiece, “The H-Man” (1958, released theatrically in the United States by Columbia Pictures).  Mabuchi also wrote the screenplay for the latter Toho Studios classic mammoth kaiju creature masterpieces, including “Destroy All Monsters” (1968, under the pseudonym of Mabuchi), “Godzilla vs. Hedorah” (1971, Mabuchi), “Godzilla vs. Gigan” (1972) and “Godzilla vs. Megalon” (1973).

Kimura’s screenplay was partially inspired by screenwriter Edgar Wallace. Wallace wrote the screenplay for the original Ernest B. Schoedsack– Merian C. Cooper–Willis O’Brien–David O. Selznick–RKO Radio Pictures* classic mammoth stop-motion creature/fantasy masterpiece, “King Kong” (1933), which featured Fay Wray, Robert Armstrong, Noble Johnson, Victor Wong, Bruce Cabot, Frank Reicher and the “eighth wonder of the world,” Kong!

This will mark Svengoolie’s fourth big broadcast of Ishirô Honda’s classic mammoth 1967 Toho Studios/Universal kaiju creature masterpiece production on Me-TV.  He previously showcased “King Kong Escapes” (1967) back in June 2013 (as a big coast-to-coast broadcast premiere), Jan. 2014 and Jan. 2016 (Fun Fact: I recall that Sven’s big Jan. 2016 Me-TV broadcast of “King Kong Escapes” was shown on my 28^th Birthday back on Jan. 16, 2016)! –C.H.

Who was in Ishirô Honda’s classic Toho Studios/Universal Studios mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece production of “King Kong Escapes” (1967)?

The players who appeared in Ishirô Honda’s classic Toho Studios/Universal mammoth kaiju creature masterpiece production of “King Kong Escapes” (1967) were veteran stunt performer Haruo Nakajima (in the “King Kong” suit), Yû Sekita (in the Mecha-Kong/Gorosaurus suits), Rhodes Reason (as Cmdr. Carl Nelson), Mie Hama (as Madame Piranha, a.k.a. “Madame X”**), Linda Miller (as Lt. Susan Watson), Akira Takarada (as Lt. Cmdr. Jiro Nomura), Hideyo Amamoto (as Dr. Who***), credited under the name of Eisei Amamoto), Yoshifumi Tajima, Shôichi Hirose, Susumu Kurobe, Nadao Kirino, Tôru Ibuki and Kazuo Suzuki (as henchmen); Yasuhisa Tsutsumi (as a General), Ikio Sawamura (as a Mondo Islander), Tadashi Okabe and Seishirô Kuno (as soldiers);  Andrew Hughes (as a United Nations reporter), the vocal stylings of Paul Frees (for the  dubbing of Hideyo/Eisei Amamoto’s characterization of Dr. Who***), the vocal stylings of Julie Bennett (for the dubbing of various characters) and the vocal stylings of David de Keyser (for the dubbing of various characters).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of Don Knotts in “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) as part of Me-TV’s “Month of ‘Mayberry’,” this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals from coast-to-coast will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic mammoth Universal Studios spook comedy masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) for the start of Me-TV’s “Month of Mayberry”

Original 1966 Universal Studios theatrical trailer of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” with Don Knotts and Joan Staley.

“Attaboy, Luther!” “Spooks! Kooks! Crooks!” Original 1966 Universal Studios theatrical poster artwork element for “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” with Don Knotts and Joan Staley.

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based comedy film host will present his big broadcast of the classic mammoth Universal ghoul comedy masterpiece, “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966); this Sat., May 1 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

According to Me-TV’s official “top three” program showcases for this week, Svengoolie’s big coast-to-coast broadcast of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) will be the  program to kick off the network’s upcoming month-long tribute to classic episodes of “The Andy Griffith Show,” and numerous guest appearances on Me-TV’s classic TV programs featuring Andy Griffith and Don Knotts, “The Month of ‘Mayberry’!”

The classic 1966 mammoth Universal spook comedy masterpiece was directed by veteran TV director  ​Alan Rafkin​.  Rafkin directed 27 episodes of Andy Griffith’s classic mammoth CBS television comedy masterpiece, “The Andy Griffith Show” from 1964-67 and five episodes of the classic mammoth CBS television spin-off comedy masterpiece series of “The Andy Griffith Show,” “Gomer Pyle, U.S.M.C.” with Jim Nabors in 1965.  The screenplay for “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” was written by veteran television writers ​Jim Fritzell​ and ​Everett Greenbaum​.  The television writing duo of Fritzell and Greenbaum were known for writing episodes of “The Andy Griffith Show” from 1961-64 and for writing episodes of the classic mammoth Twentieth Century Fox (Twentieth Century Studios)/CBS television comedy-drama adaptation masterpiece, “M*A*S*H” from 1974-78. “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) was produced by veteran MCA/Revue/Universal television and film producer Edward J. Mantagne, who served as producer and executive producer of the studio’s classic mammoth TV comedy masterpiece series, “McHale’s Navy” (1962-66) with  Ernest Borgnine, Tim Conway, Joe Flynn and Gavin MacLeod.

The orchestral source music score for Rafkin’s classic mammoth Universal ghoul comedy masterpiece production of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1964) was composed by veteran composer Vic Mizzy. Mizzy was known for his numerous TV and feature film source orchestral soundtrack score compositions; including the famous title theme song for the classic mammoth 1964-66 Filmways/ABC television live-action sitcom masterpiece adaptation of Charles Addams’ “The Addams Family” (1964-66, with John Astin, Carolyn Jones, Jackie Coogan, Ted Cassidy, Lisa Loring, Ken Weatherwax and   Marie Blake) and the score for William Castle’s classic mammoth Universal macabre thriller masterpiece “The Night Walker” (1964, with Barbara Stanwyck and Robert Taylor).

This will mark Sven’s eighth big broadcast of Rafkin’s classic mammoth Universal ghoul/spook comedy masterpiece on Me-TV.  He previously showcased of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) back in ​Nov. 2011*​, ​July 2012*​, ​Nov. 2014​, ​April 2015​, ​Oct. 2017​, July 2018 and Feb. 2020.

Who was in Alan Rafkin’s classic mammoth Universal ghoul comedy masterpiece production of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966)?

The players who appeared in Rafkin’s Universal feature production of “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” (1966) were Don Knotts​ (as Luther Heggs, Don Knotts previously played the role of Mayberry Dep. Barney Fife on Andy Griffith’s hit mammoth CBS television series alongside Frances Bavier and Ron “Ronny” Howard, “The Andy Griffith Show” from 1960–65 with latter cameo guest appearances in 1966, 1967 and 1968; near the conclusion of Griffith’s series. According to IMDB, Knotts’ role of Luther Heggs in “The Ghost and Mr. Chicken” marked his first post-“Andy Griffith Show” feature role),  ​Joan Staley​ (as Alma Parker, Staley previously appeared in Edward Bernds’ classic 1961 Columbia Pictures  prehistoric fantasy/sci-fi masterpiece production with Cesare Danova and Sean McClory, “Valley of the Dragons;” Staley also appeared as the villain Annie Okie with Cliff Robertson as the villain “Shame” in two episodes of the classic mammoth Twentieth Century Fox/Twentieth Century Studios-ABC live-action TV adaptation masterpiece of “Batman” in 1966 with Adam West and Burt Ward), ​Dick Sargent​ (as George Beckett, Sargent later played the role of the second “Darren Stephens” with  Elizabeth Montgomery in the the classic Columbia/Screen Gems-ABC fantasy sitcom masterpiece, “Bewitched” from 1969 until the conclusion of the series in 1972; Sargent took over  Dick York’s role of Darrin for the remainder of the series after York left “Bewitched” due to health-related complications in 1969), Hal Smith​ (in an uncredited role as Calver Weems, Smith played the role of Mayberry town drunk Otis Campbell on “The Andy Griffith Show” from 1960-66 and did numerous cartoon voice-overs for Hanna-Barbera and Disney animated productions alongside numerous live-action film & TV appearances in his acting career), Reta Shaw​ (as Mrs. Halcyon Maxwell), ​Dick Wilson​ (in an uncredited role as the town bandleader/bandmaster​, alongside his numerous film and TV appearances throughout his acting career, Wilson was best known for his role of “Mr. Whipple” in television commercials for Procter & Gamble’s “Charmin” toilet paper products from 1964-85, with a cameo finale in the role of Whipple in 1999; the famous Charmin “Mr. Whipple” television commercials with Wilson featured the famous slogan “Please Don’t Squeeze the Charmin!”), ​Liam Redmond​ (as Kelsey), ​Skip Homeier​ (as Ollie Weaver)  Lurene Tuttle (as Mrs. Natalie Miller), Robert Cornthwaite (as lawyer Springer), Philip Ober​ (as Nicholas Simmons), Jesslyn Fax (as Mrs. Hutchinson), James Millhollin (as Mr. Milo Maxwell), Harry Hickox (as police chief Art Fuller),  Nydia Westman (as Mrs. Cobb), Charles Lane (as lawyer Whitlow), George Chandler (as Judge Harley Nast), Sandra Gould (as Loretta Pine), Ellen Corby (as Ms. Neva Tremaine) and Cliff Norton (as Charlie, the bailiff).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals from coast-to-coast will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic mammoth Universal Studios sci-fi/fantasy/visual effects masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957)

Original 1957 Universal Studios theatrical release teaser trailer for Jack Arnold’s “The Incredible Shrinking Man,” narrated by Orson Welles.

“A fascinating adventure into the unknown!” Original 1957Universal Studios theatrical poster art for Jack Arnold’s “The Incredible Shrinking Man.”

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago sci-fi film host will present his big broadcast of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957) this Sat., April 10 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The classic mammoth 1957 Universal sci-fi/fantasy masterpiece was directed by veteran studio director Jack Arnold.  Some of Arnold’s best-known classic mammoth Universal Studios monster, sci-fi and fantasy feature film masterpiece productions include  “It Came from Outer Space” (1953, one of Universal’s first 3-D feature film productions, with Richard Carlson, Barbara Rush, a pre-“Gilligan’s Island” Russell Johnson, Kathleen Hughes and Charles Drake); his classic mammoth Universal “Creature” monster masterpiece production of “Creature From the Black Lagoon” (1954, with Julie Adams, Ricou Browning, Ben Chapman, Richard Carlson, Richard Denning, Nestor Paiva and Whit Bissell), his classic mammoth Universal “Creature” monster sequel masterpiece production of “Revenge of the Creature” (1955, with Lori Nelson, Ricou Browning, Tom Hennesy, John Agar, Nestor Paiva, young Clint Eastwood and Grandon Rhodes), “Tarantula” (1955, with Mara Corday, John Agar, Leo G. Carroll, Nestor Paiva, young Clint Eastwood and young Bing Russell) and “Monster on the Campus” (1958, with Eddie Parker, Joanna Moore, Troy Donahue, Arthur Franz, Nancy Walters and  Whit Bissell).

Arnold’s Universal production of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957) was produced by veteran producer Albert Zugsmith.  One year after “The Incredible Shrinking Man,” Zugsmith produced  Orson Welles’ classic mammoth critically-acclaimed Universal drama/film noir feature film masterpiece adaptation of Whit Masterson’s novel, “Badge of Evil;” “Touch of Evil” (1958, with Janet Leigh, Orson Welles, Charlton Heston, Joanna Moore, young Dennis Weaver and Ray Collins).  Zugsmith also directed the classic Universal drama masterpiece production of “College Confidential” (1960, with  Steve Allen, Jayne Meadows; both Allen and Meadows were married in real life from 1954 until Allen’s death in 2000; Mamie Van Doren, country/western singing legend Conway Twitty, Mickey Shaughnessy, Walter Winchell  and boxer Rocky Marciano).  The screenplay for Arnold’s classic 1957 mammoth Universal sci-fi/fantasy/visual effects masterpiece was adapted for the screen from veteran sci-fi/horror author Richard Matheson’s original story, “The Shrinking Man.”  Matheson co-wrote the screenplay adaptation of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” with veteran screenwriter Richard Alan Simmons.

This will mark Sven’s  sixth big broadcast of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957) from coast-to-coast on Me-TV.  He previously showcased Jack Arnold’s classic mammoth Universal sci-fi/fantasy masterpiece back in May 2011*, Oct. 2011*, Oct. 2014, May 2016 and Nov. 2017.

Who was in Jack Arnold’s classic Universal mammoth sci-fi/fantasy/visual effects masterpiece production of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957)?

The players who appeared in Jack Arnold’s classic mammoth Universal sci-fi/fantasy visual effects masterpiece production of “The Incredible Shrinking Man” (1957) were Grant Williams (as Scott Carey), Randy Stuart (as Louise Carey), April Kent (as Clarice Bruce), Paul Langton (as Charlie Carey), Raymond Bailey (as Dr. Thomas Silver), William Schallert (as Dr. Arthur Bramson), Frank J. Scannell (as a barker), Helene Marshall (as a nurse), Diana Darrin (as a nurse), Lock Martin (in an uncredited role as a giant) and Orangey the Cat (in an uncredited role as Butch the Cat).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Hammer Films–Universal Studios horror/mystery masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961)

Original 1961 Universal Studios tinted publicity photo/lobby card for the Hammer/B.H.P. production of  “The Shadow of the Cat.”

Note: As of this writing, the original Universal theatrical and/or TV teaser trailer(s) for “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961) is unavailable on YouTube and/or any other video streaming platform. –C.H.

“Stare into these ‘eyes’ if you dare!” Original 1961 Universal Studios poster artwork for the Hammer/B.H.P. production of  “The Shadow of the Cat.”

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based horror film host will present his big broadcast of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961), this Sat.; March 20 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The 1961 classic Hammer/Universal horror-mystery masterpiece was directed by veteran screenwriter and feature film and television director John Gilling.  Gilling previously directed the classic Columbia Pictures crime drama masterpiece production of “The Man Inside” (1958) with Jack Palance, Anita Ekberg, Anthony Newley and Donald Pleasence.  Gilling also directed the classic British independent horror-thriller-mystery masterpiece production of “The Flesh and the Fiends” (1960) with Hammer horror legend Peter Cushing, June Laverick, Donald Pleasence, Renee Houston and George Rose.

Produced by Hammer Films under the company’s “B.H.P. Productions” moniker, the 1961 production of “The Shadow of the Cat” was produced by veteran film producer-screenwriter Jon Pennington.  Two years before working on “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961), Pennington served as an associate producer for Jack Arnold’s classic Columbia Pictures comedy masterpiece, “The Mouse That Roared” (1959) with Peter Sellers, Jean Seberg, a pre-“Doctor Who” William Hartnell, Leo McKern and David Kossoff.   Four years after working on Gilling’s classic 1961 Hammer (B.H.P.)/Universal horror-mystery masterpiece, Pennington served as a producer for Jack Cardiff’s classic Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) action/adventure/spy comedy-spoof masterpiece film adaptation of John Gardner’s novel, “The Liquidator” (1965) with Rod Taylor, Jill St. John, Trevor Howard, Wilfrid Hyde-White and Eric Sykes.

The screenplay for Gilling’s classic Hammer/B.H.P./Universal horror-mystery masterpiece production of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961) was written by veteran film and television screenwriter George Baxt.  Three years before “The Shadow of the Cat,” Baxt wrote additional dialogue with veteran screenwriter Hurford Janes for Jimmy Sangster’s screenplay for Terence Fisher’s classic mammoth Hammer-Columbia monster/horror masterpiece production of “The Revenge of Frankenstein” (1958) with Peter Cushing, Michael Gwynn, Eunice Gayson and Francis Matthews.

This will mark Svengoolie’s fourth big broadcast of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961) on Me-TV.  He previously showcased Gilling’s classic Hammer/B.H.P./Universal horror-mystery masterpiece back in June 2014, July 2015 and Jan. 2017.

Who was in “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961)?

The players who appeared in Gilling’s classic Hammer (B.H.P.)-Universal horror/mystery masterpiece production of “The Shadow of the Cat” (1961) were Barbara Shelley (as Ruth Venable), André Morell (as Walter Venable), William Lucas (as Jacob Venable), Freda Jackson (as Clara), Conrad Phillips (as Michael Latimer), Richard Warner (as Edgar Venable), Vanda Godsell (as Louise Venable), Alan Wheatley (as Inspector Rowles), Andrew Crawford (as the butler Andrew), Catherine Lacey (as Ella Venable) and Kynaston Reeves (as the grandfather).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Universal Studios horror masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958)

Original 1958 Universal Studios theatrical release trailer for “The Thing That Couldn’t Die.”

“Nothing human can stop it!” Original 1958 Universal Studios theatrical poster art for “The Thing That Couldn’t Die.”

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based horror film host will present his big broadcast of “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958), this Sat.; March 6 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The 1958 classic Universal horror masterpiece was produced and directed by veteran Universal Studios producer-director Will Cowan.  Cowan was known for producing numerous Universal short subject productions for theatrical release throughout his film production career, including Universal’s classic mammoth 3-D musical short subject masterpiece with legendary crooner Nat “King” Cole and orchestral composer Russ Morgan, “Nat ‘King’ Cole and Russ Morgan and His Orchestra” (1953); Cowan’s 1953 production with Cole and Morgan was the studio’s first live-action 3-D theatrical short subject production.  The same year that he worked on “The Thing That Couldn’t Die,” Cowan also directed the classic mammoth Universal music revue masterpiece of “The Big Beat” (1958) with legends Fats Domino, Rose Marie, The Mills Brothers, The Diamonds, Cal Tjader, The Del-Vikings, young Vince Guaraldi  (Guaraldi composed the music for Charles M. Schultz’s classic Charlie Brown/Peanuts animated television masterpiece specials, the veteran jazz pianist/composer composed the music for the Peanuts specials from 1965 until his death in 1976) and Hans Conreid.

The screenplay for “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958) was written by veteran author-screenwriter David Duncan.  Duncan’s screen treatment was based off of his original story creation, “The Water Witch.”  Duncan previously wrote the screenplay for the classic mammoth Edward Ludwig–Willis H. O’Brien–Warner Bros. stop-motion sci-fi creature masterpiece production of “The Black Scorpion” (1957).  The veteran author/screenwriter also worked on the screenplays for Jack Arnold’s classic mammoth Universal monster sci-fi masterpiece production of “Monster on the Campus” (1958), Edward Dein’s classic mammoth Universal sci-fi production of “The Leech Woman” (1960, adapted from Ben Pivar’s original story idea) and George Pal’s classic mammoth Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) sci-fi masterpiece adaptation of H.G. Wells’ “The Time Machine” (1960).

This will mark Svengoolie’s third big broadcast of the classic 1958 Universal horror masterpiece on Me-TV.  He previously showcased “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958) back in Sept. 2014 and August 2015.

Who was in “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958)?

The players who appeared in Will Cowan’s classic mammoth Universal horror production of “The Thing That Couldn’t Die” (1958) were Robin Hughes (as Gideon Drew), Andra Martin (as Linda Madison), William Reynolds (as Gordon Hawthorne), Jeffrey Stone (as Hank Huston), Carolyn Kearney (as Jessica Burns), Peggy Converse (as Flavia McIntyre), James Anderson (as Boyd Abercrombie), Charles Horvath (as Mike), Phil Harvey (in an uncredited role as Trooper Kennedy) and Forrest Lewis (as Julian Ash).

Svengoolie presents his big broadcast of Vincent Price in “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic Universal Studios mammoth “Invisible” monster sequel masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of Vincent Price in “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940)

Altered trailer for Joe May’s classic mammoth Universal “Invisible Man” monster sequel masterpiece with Vincent Price, “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940).

Original 1940 Universal Studios theatrical poster art for “The Invisible Man Returns” with Vincent Price.

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based monster/horror/sci-fi film host will present his big broadcast of “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940), this Sat.; Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

Produced as a sequel to James Whale’s earlier classic mammoth Universal monster masterpiece adaptation of H.G. Wells’ “The Invisible Man” (1933, with Claude Rains, Gloria Stuart, Una O’Connor and Henry Travers); the 1940 Universal classic “Invisible Man” monster masterpiece sequel installment was directed by veteran director Joe May.  May also directed the classic Universal crime-mystery-drama production of “The House of Fear” (1939) with Irene Hervey, William Gargan, Dorothy Arnold and Walter Woolf King and the classic Universal action-adventure-comedy production of “Hit the Road” (1941) with Huntz Hall, Gabriel Dell, Bernard Punsly, Evelyn Ankers, a pre-“Three Stooges” Shemp Howard,  Barton MacLane and Gladys George.  Inspired by Wells’ novel, May also wrote the original story idea with veteran sci-fi writer Curt Siodmak, who later wrote the screenplay for George Waggner’s classic mammoth Universal werewolf monster masterpiece production of “The Wolf Man” (1941) with Lon Chaney Jr., Evelyn Ankers, Claude Rains and Ralph Bellamy.  Siodmak also co-wrote the screenplay adaptation from his own original story idea with veteran screenwriter from his original story idea with May.

May’s classic 1940 Universal “Invisible Man” monster sequel masterpiece was produced by veteran studio associate producer Ken Goldsmith.  Three years after the original 1940 theatrical release of “The Invisible Man Returns,” Goldsmith died in 1943 after completing the production of Erle C. Kenton’s Universal musical comedy production, “Always A Bridesmaid” (1943) with the popular singing trio of The Andrews Sisters/Patty Andrews, Maxene Andrews and Laverne Andrews.

This will mark Sven’s fifth big broadcast of “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940) on Me-TV.  He previously showcased May’s classic mammoth 1940 Universal “Invisible Man” monster sequel back in July 2011*, March 2013, Dec. 2014 and Jan. 2017.

Who was in Joe May’s classic Universal mammoth monster sequel masterpiece production of “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940)?

The players who appeared in Joe May’s Universal production of “The Invisible Man Returns” (1940) were Vincent Price (as Geoffrey Radcliffe), Sir Cedric Hardwicke (as Richard Cobb), Nan Grey (as Helen Manson), Alan Napier (as Willie Spears), John Sutton (as Dr. Frank Griffin), Cecil Kellaway (as Sampson), Forrester Harvey (as Ben Jenkins) and Billy Bevan (in an uncredited role as Jim).

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of Claude Rains in “The Invisible Man” (1933), this Sat. on Me-TV

Fellow Svengoolie SvenPals everywhere will be jumping for joy for his big broadcast of a classic mammoth Universal Studios monster/sci-fi feature adaptation masterpiece.

“Svengoolie” presents his big broadcast of Claude Rains in “The Invisible Man” (1933)

A snippet from James Whale’s classic Universal Studios mammoth monster masterpiece adaptation of H.G. Wells’ “The Invisible Man” (1933) with Claude Rains. Note: As of this writing, the original Universal theatrical trailer and the latter Realart re-issue trailer is unavailable.

“Fantastic sensation!” Original 1933 Universal Studios theatrical poster art variant for James Whale’s classic mammoth monster masterpiece adaptation of H.G. Wells’ “The Invisible Man” (1933) with Claude Rains.

The legendary Berwyn/Chicago-based monster/sci-fi film host will present his big broadcast of “The Invisible Man” (1933), this Sat.; Feb. 13 at 8 p.m. Eastern/7 p.m. Central on Me-TV.

The 1933 classic mammoth Universal monster/sci-fi masterpiece adaptation was directed by veteran studio director James Whale.  Whale’s other classic mammoth Universal monster masterpieces include “Frankenstein” (1931) with Boris Karloff, “The Old, Dark House” (1932) with Karloff, Lilian Bond, Charles Laughton, Melvyn Douglas and Raymond Massey and “Bride of Frankenstein” (1935) with Elsa Lanchester and Karloff.  Adapted for the screen from H.G. Wells’ 1897 novel of the same name, the screenplay adaptation of Whale’s classic mammoth Universal monster masterpiece production of “The Invisible Man” (1933) was written by veteran screenwriter R.C. Sherriff, along with uncredited screenplay material by Philip Wylie and young Preston Sturges.  Sherriff wrote additional dialogue for Whale’s earlier classic Universal horror masterpiece production of “The Old Dark House” (1932) and served as a contributing writer for Lambert Hillyer’s classic Universal “Dracula” monster masterpiece installment of “Dracula’s Daughter” (1936) with Gloria Holden.  Sturges went onto greater fame writing comedies for Paramount Pictures throughout the 1940s, including “Remember the Night” (1940), “The Lady Eve” (1941), “Sullivan’s Travels” (1941), “The Palm Beach Story” (1942), “The Miracle of Morgan’s Creek” (1943)  and “Hail the Conquering Hero” (1944).   “The Invisible Man” (1933) was produced by veteran Universal producer/executive Carl Laemmle Jr., son of Universal Studios founder Carl Laemmle.(the senior Laemmle founded Universal as a merger of several pioneering film production/distribution firms in 1912).

This will mark Sven’s seventh big broadcast of “The Invisible Man” (1933) on Me-TV.  He previously showcased Whale’s classic mammoth 1933 Universal monster/sci-fi masterpiece adaptation of Wells’ novel back in June 2011*, May 2013, March 2014, July 2015, March 2016 and Nov. 2019.

Who was in “The Invisible Man” (1933)?

The players who appeared in Whale’s classic mammoth Universal monster/sci-fi masterpiece adaptation of Wells’ “The Invisible Man” (1933) were Claude Rains (as Dr. Jack Griffin/the “Invisible Man;” some of Rains’ other notable feature film appearances include his role of Sir John Talbot in George Waggner’s classic 1941 Universal mammoth monster masterpiece, “The Wolf Man” with Lon Chaney Jr.; the role of Capt. Louis “Louie” Renault in Michael Curtiz’s classic critically-acclaimed 1942 Warner Bros. wartime drama masterpiece with Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, “Casablanca” and the role of Erique Claudin in Arthur Lubin’s 1943 classic Universal Technicolor monster masterpiece adaptation of “Phantom of the Opera” with Nelson Eddy and Susanna Foster), Gloria Stuart (as Flora Cranley; alongside her numerous film and television appearances throughout her screen career, Stuart previously played the role of Margaret Waverton in James Whale’s classic 1932 Universal horror-thriller masterpiece, “The Old, Dark House;” she also appeared in the role of Irene von Helldorf in Kurt Neumann’s classic 1934 Universal mystery-horror masterpiece, “Secret of the Blue Room;” in the latter part of her screen career, she later played the role of elderly Rose in James Cameron’s 1997 production of “Titanic”), Una O’Connor (as Jenny Hall, O’Connor later appeared in the role of Minnie in James Whale’s classic 1935 mammoth Universal monster masterpiece production of “Bride of Frankenstein” (with Lanchester and Karloff), Henry Travers (as Dr. Cranley; Travers was also known for his Holiday/Christmastime film appearances, including the role of  Horace P. Bogardus in Leo McCarey’s 1945 production of “The Bells of St. Mary’s” with Bing Crosby and Ingrid Bergman and the role of the angel Clarence in Frank Capra’s 1946 production of  “It’s A Wonderful Life” with James Stewart and Donna Reed), E.E. Clive (as constable Jaffers), Forrester Harvey (as Herbert Hall), William Harrigan (as Dr. Arthur Kemp), Holmes Herbert (as the police chief), Dudley Digges (as the chief detective),  Merle Tottenham (as Millie), Harry Stubbs (as Inspector Bird), Donald Stuart (as Inspector Lane), supporting Universal horror veteran Dwight Frye (in a role as a reporter), young Walter Brennan (in an uncredited role as a bicycle owner) and young John Carradine (in an uncredited role as an informer).