Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers (2010)
A short documentary celebrating the Uxbridge craftspeople who built Doctor Who's most iconic monsters and props in the 1960s.
Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers - Movie Information
- Original Title: Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers
- Release Year: 2010
- Directed by: John Kelly
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Documentary
- Runtime: 17m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Production Companies: 2 Entertain
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers - Plot
This documentary looks at the work of Uxbridge-based Shawcraft Models, who provided many of the props and models for Doctor Who during the 1960s.
Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- John Kelly
Main Cast
- Raymond Cusick
- Annette Basford
- Spencer Chapman
- Barry Newbery
- John Wood
- Phillip Kelly
Producers
- John Kelly
Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers - FAQs
What is Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers about?
This 2010 short documentary examines the legacy of Shawcraft Models, a prop and model-making company based in Uxbridge that produced many of the memorable creatures, vehicles, and set pieces seen in Doctor Who throughout the 1960s, featuring interviews with key contributors.
Who was Shawcraft Models and why do they matter?
Shawcraft Models was a specialist workshop in Uxbridge, England, responsible for constructing some of Doctor Who's most iconic props during the 1960s, including the original Dalek casings. Their craftsmanship helped define the visual identity of one of television's longest-running science fiction series.
Did Raymond Cusick design the original Daleks?
Yes. Raymond Cusick was the BBC designer who created the visual concept for the Daleks in 1963. Shawcraft Models then built the physical casings based on his designs. Cusick appears in this documentary discussing his work and his collaboration with the Uxbridge-based model makers.
Who directed Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers?
The documentary was directed and produced by John Kelly. Phillip Kelly served as narrator, while contributors including Raymond Cusick, Annette Basford, Spencer Chapman, Barry Newbery, and John Wood appear on screen sharing their recollections of working with Shawcraft Models.
How long is Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers?
Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers runs for approximately 17 minutes, making it a concise short-form documentary. Despite its brief runtime, it offers a focused and informative look at the craftspeople behind some of Doctor Who's most enduring visual creations from the 1960s.
What language is Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers in?
The documentary is presented entirely in English. It was produced in the United Kingdom by 2 Entertain and features English-speaking contributors recounting their experiences working alongside Shawcraft Models during the early years of Doctor Who's production.
Who produced Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers?
The film was produced by John Kelly under the banner of 2 Entertain, a UK-based home entertainment company known for releasing official Doctor Who DVD releases and supplementary content. This documentary was likely included as a bonus feature on one of those official releases.
Is Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers worth watching for Doctor Who fans?
Absolutely. For Doctor Who enthusiasts and fans of classic British television history, this short documentary is a valuable primary source. It preserves first-hand accounts from key contributors, including designer Raymond Cusick, shedding light on the practical craft behind the show's iconic 1960s monsters and props.
More About Shawcraft: The Original Monster Makers
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