Television's Greatest Year--1954

by R.D. Heldenfels

An analysis of TV in the year that saw it emerge from the realm of experiment to the dizzy heights of popularity and influence. As well as covering successes of the time such as I Love Lucy and Dragnet, the author examines the opportunities generated by advertising to captive audiences.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0826406750
• ISBN13: 9780826406750
• Release Date: January 1994
• Publisher: Continuum
• Length: 238 Pages
• Weight: 1.15 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.3" x 9.3"

Customer Reviews

Fascinating reading about a special age in television

It is a bold move to say that 1954 was THE best year in television history and yet the author of this book does just that - and makes a strong case. Consider this- viewers could find such greats as Lucille Ball (has there ever been a female comedian to compare to her?), Milton Berle, Jackie Gleason and others. There was also live drama being shown and not just ANY drama but that showcasing such writers as Gore Vidal and Rod Serling, who often had to create strong stories to hold audience attention while conforming to the censors of the time. After reading this book, perhaps you'll decide (as I did) that it is no accident that there have been a wealth of movie remakes of some of these classic shows. How ironic that we have more stations available via cable and satellite than ever and yet are often hard pressed to find the quality of shows available in the 50's.