Dial M For Murder (BBC-1 1974, Ian Hendry, Ray McAnally)

Anthology series Dial M For Murder told stories where murderous intent was the focus. The linking device was that a phone featured in some way to set up the story.

Storylines focused on straight forward blackmail, nuisance phone calls, professional hit men and espionage.

The writers involved included Roy Clarke, P.J.Hammond, Richard Harris and James Andrew Hall whilst directors included Peter Graham Scott, Gerald Blake and Ken Hughes.

The casts lined up for the episodes were pretty high profile and included Ian Hendry, Elaine Stritch, Lee Montague, George Baker, William Gaunt, Ray McAnally, John Gregson, Ronald Hines, Charles Gray and Patrick MacNee.

Robert Lang and Ian Hendry as a pair of hit men in the second story Contract.

production details
UK / BBC One / 13×50 minute episodes / Broadcast 20 May – 19 August 1974

Producer: Jordan Lawrence

THE EPISODES
1. IF YOU KNEW SUSIE (20 May 74)
2. CONTRACT (27 May 74)
3. THE VINEYARD (3 Jun 74)
4. THE VOICE (10 Jun 74)
5. MURDER ON DEMAND (17 Jun 74)
6. THE MAN IN THE MIDDLE (24 Jun 74)
7. DEAD CONNECTION (1 Jul 74)
8. WHATEVER’S PETER PLAYING AT (8 Jul 74)
9. BOTH HANDS FREE (15 Jul 74)
10. FIRING POINT (29 Jul 74)
11. SHOULD ANYONE ANSWER (5 Aug 74)
12. FRAME (12 Aug 74)
13. RECORDING ANGEL (19 Aug 74)

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.