The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a 1968 Canadian-American television film based on the 1886 novella Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson. It was directed by Charles Jarrott, produced by Dan Curtis, and written by Ian McLellan Hunter.
It was one of a series of adaptations of famous novels done by ABC.[1]
Dan Curtis decided to make a film of Jekyll and Hyde. Originally, Rod Serling wrote a draft of the script, and Jason Robards was to star, with filming to take place in London. However, the project soon was beset with problems. Robards was unhappy with the script. In addition, filming in London proved difficult due to a technician's union strike. Filming was pushed back, and Robards decided to drop out, unhappy with the script.[2]
Curtis decided to get a new script and find a new star. Ian McLellan Hunter wrote a new script. Curtis had discussed doing another project with actor Jack Palance, who agreed to take over the lead role. The producer decided to film in Canada, where it would be cheaper than the U.S.[3]
Filming took place in Toronto over seven weeks in 1967. Curtis had to pay $200,000 to build a replica of Washington Square in Toronto. Palance was injured while filming a stunt.[4] The budget was approximately $900,000.[5] ABC paid for approximately half of this.
The show was nominated for four Emmy awards - Outstanding Dramatic Program, Outstanding Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role in a Drama, Best Graphic Design, and Best Make-up.[6]