Nigel Kneale
Nigel Kneale: A Pioneer of British Science Fiction Television
Full Name and Common Aliases
Nigel Kneale was a renowned British screenwriter, best known for his work on science fiction television dramas. His common aliases include Nigel Kneale (birth name) and Nigel.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 10, 1922, in Huyton, Liverpool, England, UK, Nigel Kneale passed away on March 29, 2016, at the age of 93.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Kneale was a British national and primarily worked as a screenwriter, with a focus on science fiction television dramas. His contributions to British television are still celebrated today.
Early Life and Background
Nigel Kneale grew up in Liverpool, where he developed an interest in writing at a young age. He attended the University of Manchester, studying English Language and Literature before graduating in 1943. After serving in the Royal Air Force during World War II, Kneale began his career as a journalist and writer for various publications.
Major Accomplishments
Kneale's most notable accomplishments include creating the iconic science fiction series Quatermass (1953-1959), which revolutionized British television with its blend of science fiction and horror elements. He also wrote for other popular shows, such as The Army Game and The Hound of the Baskervilles, a BBC adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic novel.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Kneale's most notable works include:
Quatermass and the Pit (1959): A five-part science fiction serial that explores the idea of an alien artifact discovered in London.
The Quatermass Experiment (1953): The first episode of the Quatermass series, which follows a scientist's encounter with an alien spacecraft.
* The War Game (1965): A BBC drama that depicts a hypothetical nuclear war between Britain and Russia.
These works demonstrate Kneale's ability to craft compelling stories that captivated audiences and pushed the boundaries of science fiction on television.
Impact and Legacy
Kneale's impact on British television is immeasurable. He paved the way for future science fiction writers and helped establish the genre as a staple of British television programming. His work has been widely influential, inspiring creators such as Steven Spielberg and Terry Nation, who have credited Kneale as an inspiration.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Nigel Kneale is remembered for his innovative storytelling, which blended science fiction with horror elements to create a unique viewing experience. His work continues to be celebrated by fans of the genre, and his legacy serves as a testament to the power of science fiction on television.
As a pioneer of British science fiction television, Nigel Kneale's contributions have left a lasting impact on the industry. His innovative storytelling, influential works, and dedication to the craft have cemented his place in history as one of the most important figures in British television.
Quotes by Nigel Kneale
The trick is the paradox – turning your story inside out. Now if it is something that appears to be of total normality and then suddenly turns inside out and is a different thing all together then that’s fun to write.
The only folk I can judge are people like Woody Allen who I think is a genius, largely because I think he has beaten the system. He has his own company, and his films are all his own ideas. It’s his direction, and so it comes out the way he imagined it.
You get to Hollywood and you are in the land of big money where they don’t like to see only one screenwriter’s name. It’s much better if you’ve got four or five.
All stories should have some honesty and truth in them, otherwise you’re just playing about.
I prefer doing original scripts because I totally control the story - it's all mine. Films don't work like that but television does.