Amazing Stories (1985–1987)
9/10
Tales of Amazement
6 March 2020
This show is my tenth favorite anthology show, as well as an honorable mention in favorite fantasy TV shows. But also, the show is another under the radar gem, I wouldn't say it was overlooked it was a moderate hit at the time but as time went on its became slightly forgotten. This show is a different kind of anthology as this one is mainly focused on the fantasy genre which I like and is not something I see much or at all in the anthology genre; most anthologies and there tales have an element of fantasy and a sum of them are of the fantasy genre, this show is pure fantasy based.

The production value is on par, this show was produced by some of the best people Steven Spielberg and others and they no doubt brought out the best. The budget was high, and it was used well. Really like that they have some well-known or familiar named directors some of them I'm a little surprised even did this kind of show at all.

Even familiar faces and stars in the episodes like Mark Hamell, John Lithgow, Kevin Costner, Keither Sutherland, Dom Deloise, it's always fun to see big names and familiar faces being involved in the anthologies really helps showcase their talents or just simply a break from the norm.

I even love that theme song which is one of my favorite theme songs of all time done by one of my favorite composers John Williams. It just has that adventurous tune which fits. Also like the intro which is one of my favorite intos that I feel is sorely missing in TV; it's a very interesting was as it just shows the power of stories and how timeless and universal they are.

It's true that this show may have some rotten tomatoes on the vine but same is said for a lot of anthologies it's always going to be hit or miss, it's always a matter of preference. But there are also plenty of ripe and fine tomatoes that are worth picking and are what truly count. I'll just say a few of my favorite tales, yeah you might not agree with them but as I said before it's a matter of preference after all.

1. Family Dog: This is no surprise my favorite tale of all. The episode was the debut of one of my favorite animation directors of all time Brad Bird, whom of course is known for "The Iron Giant", "The Incredibles 1 and 2", etc.; this was a great start for him and on a side note this episode became an animated TV series I think is underrated.

The things that were unique about this episode was that it was all animated and it focused on a nonverbal protagonist. I really love the protagonist whom is just so cute, surprised there were never any plush toys of him, really like the shape of his head which is unusual as it looks like a ice cream cone which I feel adds to the cuteness.

The dog is sort of the sad clown and straight man of the segment, as there seems to be all kinds of chaos and insanity going on with the family, let alone grief he receives.

2. You got to Believe Me: This tale sort of predates the "Final Destination" franchise as the premise is a bit uncannily similar. The late Charles During is good as a sympathetic protagonist who has been given a premonition of doom, you really route for him despite his reluctance does everything he can to stop the terrible tragedy.

3. Mummy Daddy: This is a funny horror comedy that kind of predates the film "Scream". It's just funny how it parodies all the clichés in all of the old-time universal horror movies but also how fantasy and reality collide.

Overall, if you're into the anthology genre, this is worth check out. There are plenty of amazing tales to satisfy your amazement.

Rating: 3 and a half stars
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