By Stephen la Rivière

Century 21 Films, available now

An updated version of the complete history of Gerry and Sylvia Anderson’s TV and film productions made in Supermarionation.

This third edition of Stephen La Rivière’s 2009 book includes references to new documentation and discoveries since the previous 2014 version, and the author himself acknowledges that this is a moving feast – new content is being discovered all the time. Will there be a further edition? Who knows, suffice to say that this continues to be an essential purchase for the Anderson fan.

As with all fandoms, the level of a fan’s knowledge veers between novice and encyclopaedia. Luckily for us, La Rivière falls into the latter camp, and even if as a reader you have a good knowledge of Stingray and Thunderbirds, how much do you know about Four Feathers Falls and The Secret Service?

The author chronicles A P Films from the mid 50s and the production of The Adventures of Twizzle and Torchy the Battery Boy, through to The Secret Service. Mention is made of UFO and Space: 1999, but the focus here is on Supermarionation. His narrative is a mixture of context, detail and anecdote which works well.

We learn about the development of production techniques – types of wire, mouth movement, live-action hand inserts, roller backings, and so on – as well as the deals that were struck with likes of Lew Grade. And when discussing the acrimonious period of Gerry and Sylvia’s divorce, La Rivière keeps things balanced, avoiding the gossip or name calling.

Verdict: Detailed and accessible, this hefty volume has increased my Supermarionation knowledge dramatically. Stand by for action! 9/10

Nick Joy

Click here to order from Century 21 Films