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Blind Survivors Face Wilderness After Plane Crash
18 Oct
Summary
- Visually impaired survivors navigated wilderness after a plane crash.
- Milton Berle starred in a dramatic role against type.
- The film was part of ABC's 'Movie of the Week' anthology series.
In 1969, "Seven in Darkness" premiered, launching ABC's influential "Movie of the Week" anthology series with a high-concept survival drama. The film depicted a group of blind passengers who must find their way to safety after their plane crashes in a remote wilderness, with all sighted individuals perishing. Milton Berle, known for his comedic legacy, took on a dramatic role as one of the survivors, offering a new dimension to his career.
Despite facing challenges unique to their condition, the survivors grappled with their environment, highlighted in a memorable scene involving a river crossing. Critiques at the time noted the film’s ambitious premise but questioned its cinematic quality, even with a considerable budget. Nonetheless, "Seven in Darkness" achieved modest ratings and proved strategically valuable for ABC, serving as a strong lead-in for the subsequent premiere of "Marcus Welby, M.D."
The "ABC Movie of the Week" continued until 1975, providing a platform for established stars from earlier eras, such as Bette Davis and Olivia de Havilland, to feature in contemporary television films. Milton Berle continued acting until 2000, leaving a lasting mark on television history.
