Watch Master of Dark Shadows

In the year 2019, the fans of the cult classic soap opera "Dark Shadows," which thrived on television in the late 60s and early 70s, got a treat with the release of the documentary film "Master of Dark Shadows," directed by David Gregory. The documentary paid homage to the genius behind the creation of the series, Dan Curtis, and looked into the making of one of the most groundbreaking shows in television history.

"Master of Dark Shadows" was not just any documentary. It was a heartfelt tribute to the visionary mind that was Dan Curtis, who not only created the series but also produced and directed it. The documentary contained exclusive interviews with the cast and crew of the show along with the family and friends of Dan Curtis. Archival footage from the show supplemented the interviews, giving viewers a glimpse into the making of this cult phenomenon.

The movie starts with the interviews of some audience members who shared their love for the show and how it connected with them at a time when social issues were not a popular subject for television dramas. The film then transitions to the introduction of the man behind the creation of this show, Dan Curtis.

The documentary delves into Dan Curtis's early years, his family background, and his inspiration for "Dark Shadows." Interviews with his family reveal the heartwarming stories of young Dan, who was fascinated with horror stories and haunted houses, and how this fascination paved the way for the creation of the Gothic world of Collinwood.

Through the interviews with the cast members Nancy Barrett, David Selby, Lara Parker, Kathryn Leigh Scott, and others, the audience learns how the show became more than just a soap opera. Actors explain how their characters of vampires, werewolves, witches, and ghosts fascinated viewers, and how the series tackled various issues like addiction, social status, and other important subjects rarely seen on TV during that era. The documentary also dives into the show's music and how its score played a major role in enhancing the show's eerie and mysterious atmosphere.

The film also delves into the controversy surrounding the show's cancellation, disclosing how fan campaigns and general outcry led to its revival. The documentary is a nostalgic trip for viewers who were once fans of the beloved series and for those who want to learn more about its cult status. It showcases how Dan Curtis's vision for a supernatural drama not only created a unique series but also paved the way for future shows like "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "True Blood."

The film has excellent production value, featuring interviews with prominent writers and authors who not only discuss the significance of "Dark Shadows" but also share their thoughts on Dan Curtis's work. People like Stephen King, who penned his own tribute to Dan Curtis for this film, and Barbara Steele, one of the leading stars of Italian gothic horror of her time, feature among some of the voices in this documentary.

One of the highlights of "Master of Dark Shadows" is the interviews with the creator of the successful television series "Six Feet Under," Alan Ball. He shares his experiences of being a fan of the show and how it influenced his creativity. As someone who also explored dark storytelling, Ball shares how "Dark Shadows" was an inspiration to his career.

Finally, the documentary concludes with a heartwarming tribute to Dan Curtis's exceptional talent, as well as his relationship with the cast and crew. The documentary honors Curtis as one of the greatest creators of supernatural storytelling, whose works have influenced the genre on a global level.

In conclusion, "Master of Dark Shadows" is a beautiful tribute to the talented mind behind one of the most significant supernatural TV shows of all time. The film is an ideal watch for fans of "Dark Shadows," fans of gothic novels, or anyone who has an interest in the history of television. The documentary is an entertaining, informative, and enjoyable reminder of why "Dark Shadows" remains relevant even after all these years.

Master of Dark Shadows is a 2019 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.7.