#robert cobert

Vote for the best vintage Halloween song!

Propaganda for "Shadows of the Night (Quentin's Theme)": "this is literally the theme song for a ghost/werewolf/roguish wealthy rake/public nuisance from a soap opera that reached #13 on the billboard top 40. there's multiple versions (some with lyrics, either sung or recited) but this is the one that was a charting single. the sheer power of Dark Shadows to pull this off!!! the sheer power of David Selby as Quentin!!!! now you too can turn on your mysterious haunted phonograph and annoy your family members while you sit and listen to your spooky mysterious theme song!!!!"

Dark Shadows 1970's Saturday Morning Cartoon Style by Eric Marshall

Cartoon model sheet artwork by the amazing Eric Marshall.

“The Picture of Dorian Gray” (1973)

I came across Dan Curtis’ production of the Dorian Gray story on a streaming channel. Curtis only produced, not directed, but his stamp is all over it. I was surprised it was recorded on video, not film, so it comes across as “a very special” episode of Dark Shadows. Even John Karlen pops up in a scene or two.

The TV film also heavily reused Robert Cobert’s music from the series. I imagine Curtis thought he’d save money, but frankly I think it cheapens it. He even used Quentin’s Theme prominently. Come on! He should have paid Cobert to compose something new.

I’m not to crazy about Shane Briant as Dorian. He’s okay looking but not the stunning beauty that he’s described (too puffy faced). This production also relies heavily on Dorian narrating the story... again not a great reader.

I saw “The Batman” at and early screening - it’s terrific. The music is by Michael Giacchino.

During the first scene I was stuck by how much The Riddler’s theme reminded me to Robert Cobert background music for the original “Dark Shadows”.

The above slideshow has a brief sample.