There were 30 Perry Mason television movies made between 1985 and 1995, all featuring Raymond Burr reprising his iconic role, with Barbara Hale returning as Della Street for all but one. These productions successfully resurrected the beloved character, extending the franchise’s impact beyond its original television run.
From Courtroom to Screen: Tracing Perry Mason’s Journey
Perry Mason, the creation of novelist Erle Stanley Gardner, has permeated popular culture for decades. From the original novels to the ground-breaking television series starring Raymond Burr, the character has remained a symbol of unwavering justice and sharp legal acumen. However, the transition from the original series to the made-for-television movies marked a significant evolution in the character’s portrayal and reach. While many know and love the original black-and-white series, it’s the later movies that cemented Perry Mason’s legacy for a new generation.
The Revival: Why the Movies Mattered
The Perry Mason television movies were not merely a nostalgic revival; they represented a calculated effort to tap into the enduring appeal of a classic character while updating the stories for a contemporary audience. The productions capitalized on the familiar formula: a seemingly impossible case, a wrongfully accused client, and Mason’s relentless pursuit of the truth. They were a welcome return for fans and offered a chance for new viewers to discover the brilliance of the character. The presence of Raymond Burr in the lead role provided a seamless connection to the original series, enhancing the authenticity and credibility of the revival. These TV movies were extremely successful, consistently achieving high ratings and generating substantial revenue, proving the enduring power of the Perry Mason brand.
Delving Deeper: Frequently Asked Questions About Perry Mason Movies
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Perry Mason movie series, designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of this chapter in the character’s history:
FAQ 1: When did the Perry Mason movie series begin and end?
The Perry Mason movie series began in 1985 with Perry Mason Returns and concluded in 1995 with Perry Mason: The Case of the Killer Kiss. This ten-year run solidified its place as a successful revival.
FAQ 2: Which actors besides Raymond Burr reprised their roles from the original series?
Besides Raymond Burr as Perry Mason, Barbara Hale returned as Della Street for all movies except one. William Katt, Hale’s real-life son, played the role of Paul Drake Jr. in many of the movies, adding another familial tie to the original series.
FAQ 3: Was William R. Moses a regular cast member in the movie series?
Yes, William R. Moses played Ken Malansky, a young, eager associate of Perry Mason, and he was a recurring cast member in the majority of the films after his introduction. He provided a contrast to Mason’s experience and offered a perspective closer to the audience.
FAQ 4: How did the Perry Mason movies differ from the original television series?
While the core formula remained the same, the movies generally featured more complex plots, updated technology (reflecting the changing times), and tackled some more contemporary social issues. The pacing was also slightly different, catering to the longer format of television movies.
FAQ 5: Which Perry Mason movie did Barbara Hale not appear in?
Barbara Hale did not appear in Perry Mason: The Case of the Desperate Deception (1990). This was a notable exception, and her absence was felt by many viewers.
FAQ 6: What was the last Perry Mason movie Raymond Burr starred in before his death?
The last Perry Mason movie starring Raymond Burr before his death was Perry Mason: The Case of the Killer Kiss (1995). He passed away shortly after filming wrapped, making it a poignant final performance.
FAQ 7: Did Dean Hargrove, the producer of the original series, work on the movies?
Yes, Dean Hargrove was heavily involved in the production of the Perry Mason movies. His experience and understanding of the character were instrumental in maintaining the series’ integrity and appeal.
FAQ 8: Where were the Perry Mason movies primarily filmed?
The Perry Mason movies were primarily filmed in Los Angeles, California, reflecting the setting of the original series and the film industry’s infrastructure.
FAQ 9: What are some of the most memorable Perry Mason movies?
Some of the most memorable include Perry Mason Returns (the revival starter), Perry Mason: The Case of the Lost Love (featuring a particularly intriguing plot), and Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel (highlighting Mason’s courtroom brilliance). It is highly subjective depending on personal preference.
FAQ 10: Did any famous guest stars appear in the Perry Mason movies?
Yes, many well-known actors and actresses made guest appearances in the Perry Mason movies, including Debbie Reynolds, David Hasselhoff, and Robert Vaughn. This added to the star power and drew in a wider audience.
FAQ 11: Are the Perry Mason movies available on DVD or streaming services?
Many of the Perry Mason movies are available on DVD and various streaming services, although availability may vary depending on the region and platform. Check your local listings and online retailers.
FAQ 12: How did the Perry Mason movies perform in terms of ratings and viewership?
The Perry Mason movies were generally very successful in terms of ratings and viewership. They consistently ranked among the highest-rated television movies of their time, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the character and the format.
The Enduring Legacy of Perry Mason
The Perry Mason movies played a vital role in preserving and extending the character’s legacy. They introduced Perry Mason to a new generation and reminded older fans of the character’s enduring appeal. The combination of Raymond Burr’s iconic portrayal, compelling storylines, and a dedicated production team ensured the success of the movie series. While the original series holds a special place in television history, the films ensured that the courtroom drama lived on, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. The number of films, 30 in total, demonstrates a commitment and longevity rarely seen in television movie revivals. They are a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted character and the timeless appeal of a good legal mystery.