The Owl Service: The Complete Series

Dating back to 1969, The Owl Service is a very original TV series that still has a lot to offer to audiences today, especially considering its use of music and jumpy camera work to achieve its desired dramatic shocks, compared to modern CGI and computer techniques.

The story follows a step family who are on holiday in Wales, staying in a cottage under the watchful eye of a grouchy housekeeper, her son and a secret holding gardener. What follows is a quirkily shot and atmospheric show where nothing is as it seems, noises in the loft lead to the discovery of a dinner service (featuring flower motifs that when traced become owl shaped). Alison soon becomes obsessed with these owls, which seemingly vanish into thin air.

A more supernatural story unravels and amongst the teen angst and family conflicts, ancient Celtic legends are unveiled, and the behaviour of the three young leads eerily parallels the ill-fated previous occupiers of the property. An imaginative drama for teens with a darker twist, The Owl Service is one of those rare lost gems that has slipped through the cracks of TV history.

Extras: Image gallery and interview with author Alan Garner.

Released on 28th April 2008 by Network.

Written by Phil Allely.