Scary TV Moments: Rats, Torture, Mind Control – it must be 1984

On 12th December 1954 Nigel Kneale’s adaptation of George Orwell’s controversial 1984 was transmitted, live from the BBC, to an audience of 9m people. Never before in the history of television had so much fuss been caused by one programme. Even today, few other programmes have been as controversial and 1984 stands as a landmark in scary TV history.

The Daily Express reported that a woman had collapsed and died whilst watching the play and MPs complained about the level of “sexual and sadistic tastes” in the programme. So what caused all the fuss? Rats. Torture. Mind control. Watch the scene with Peter Cushing and the rats and, even all these years later, you might be prompted to write a stiff letter of complaint yourself.

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Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.