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Another in the line of ITC's action-adventure series of the 1960s, Strange
Report differed from the fantastical and exotic exploits of, for example, The
Champions (ITV, 1969), grounding itself in the reality of late '60s London and
dealing with contemporary issues and anxieties. Perhaps because of this, the
programme has been neglected in comparison to more escapist ITC shows like
Danger Man (1964-67) and Man in the Suitcase (1967-68). This is unfortunate
because, in tackling such subjects as illegal immigration, racism, student
militancy and euthanasia, Strange Report arguably offers a more honest
assessment of the period.
Locating the show in a recognisably contemporary London allowed the programme
to display a degree of realism and authenticity unusual for its genre. In the
episode, 'Report 8319: GRENADE 'What Price Change'' (tx. 19/10/1969), the
investigation of violent student demonstrations reflects and comments upon the
student protests that followed the May '68 Paris upheavals. 'Report 3424:
EPIDEMIC 'A Most Curious Crime'' (tx. 2/11/69) examined the issues of illegal
immigration and people trafficking and 'Report 1553: RACIST 'A Most Dangerous
Proposal'' (tx. 7/12/69) dealt with immigration and the effects of racism in the
wake of Enoch Powell's infamous 1967 'Rivers of Blood' speech. Such difficult
themes were seldom dealt with in the popular action-adventure series of the time
and, as a representative of the type of middle-class authority figure prevalent
in postwar British film and TV, Strange arguably makes a reassuringly moderate
commentator on this tumultuous period.
Only sixteen episodes of the programme were made, giving little scope to
develop the characters. Nevertheless, one of Strange Report's strengths is the
relationship established early in the series between Strange and his two young
companions, his neighbour Evelyn McLean and the American researcher Hamlyn Gynt.
Strange's authority and professionalism neatly contrasts with Gynt's idealism
and exuberance and Evelyn's youthful enthusiasm. Despite their differences, it
soon becomes obvious from the characters' affectionate interplay that they share
a mutual respect. The programme achieves a satisfying balance between the
actors' light-hearted performances and the seriousness of the
storylines.
Michael Ahmed
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1. Joining the protest (2:24)
