Classic Horrors Club

When have you ever heard Flash Gordon say, “I’ll be in my office taking care of some work?” I’m no expert on the character, but the statement seems odd to me coming from the famous space adventurer. Such is the case in an episode of the 1954-55 series, Flash Gordon, called, “Akim the Terrible.” Syndicated in the United States, the show was produced in West Berlin (and later, Marseilles) by Intercontinental Television Films and Telediffusion. 

This is one of several episodes that are in the public domain and can easily be found online to watch. It takes place largely on a “black planet of the universe” on which every day is “Opposite Day.” Ruled by Akim, bad is good and good is bad. A friend of Flash’s is sent to investigate a looming threat and falls victim to a wobbly machine that Akim uses to brainwash him. Akim then sends him back home to interrupt Flash in his office while he’s doing some work and attempt to kill him.

Saved by Dale Arden (Irene Champlin), she and Flash finally see some action. Their heads are shaved so plates can be placed in their frontal lobes, then they don wigs and blast off to face Akim. The plates protect them from the brainwashing so they can fool Akim by acting like they’re in a “murderous mood.” The talk and lanky, yet still blonde, Flash (Steve Holland) and his companion save the day and protect Earth from Akim’s plans to rule the universe. OK, that’s the Flash Gordon I know.

Although it ran for only 39 episodes between October 1, 1954 and July 15, 1955, Flash Gordon was popular enough that the three Universal Pictures serials were retitled and broadcast on television. Universal had allowed the production rights for Flash Gordon to lapse and two of its former executives, Edward Grusking and Matty Fox, made a deal with King Features Syndicate to produce the first 26 episodes of the series, which were filmed in West Berlin.

Wallace Worsley, Jr., director of many of these episodes left the series due to a salary dispute and the production moved to Marseilles for the rest of its run. Gunther von Fristch now directed and German producer Wenzel Ludecke was replaced by American Edward Gruskin. All this adds up to a series with some good qualities (shot on film with real exterior locations) and some bad qualities (most of the characters speak with German accents.)

Prior to the series, the character of Flash Gordon was already popular and there was abundant merchandising. I did not learn if anything was made to accompany this particular version of the story. Flash has a rich history that’s worth studying if it’s of interest. And if you are interested, I can’t help but think what a curiosity Flash Gordon must be. 

Next week: Captain Z-Ro…