"Lights Out" was an American old-time radio program that has become a classic in the horror and supernatural genre. Created by Wyllis Cooper and later taken over by Arch Oboler, it was one of the first radio horror shows and was renowned for pushing the boundaries of radio drama during its time.
Origin and Development
"Lights Out" originally aired in 1934 on a local NBC station in Chicago, WENR, before it was picked up for national broadcasting. Wyllis Cooper, the creator, set the tone for innovation and eerie storytelling from its inception. In 1936, Arch Oboler took over as the writer and director and brought a new level of dramatic intensity and creativity to the show. Oboler's tenure is especially noted for his use of narrative devices and an experimental approach to sound effects and dialogue.
Format and Style
The show famously began with a deep, ominous voice warning listeners to "turn off your lights" and prepare for a chilling experience. Episodes were typically half an hour long and featured a variety of horror tropes—ghosts, monsters, and unpredictable twists that were designed to be listened to in the dark. The introduction of the show itself was enough to set a foreboding atmosphere that promised a thrilling experience.
The phrase, "It... is... later... than... you... think," often spoken by Oboler, became a catchphrase of the show, emphasizing eerie suspense and the chilling nature of the stories.
Impact and Legacy
"Lights Out" was groundbreaking for its use of sound to evoke the imagination. The sound effects were particularly innovative for the time, with techniques that simulated grisly scenes not suitable for all audiences. For example, crunching raw cabbage was used to mimic the sound of skull-crushing, and sponges soaked in water were torn to simulate ripping flesh.
These explicit horror elements sometimes drew criticism, but they also garnered a dedicated and large audience, demonstrating the public's appetite for thrillers and horror. The show's ability to frighten and engage listeners made it a significant part of radio history and contributed to the evolution of horror in other media.
Notable Episodes
Some of the most famous episodes of "Lights Out" include:
- **"Revolt of the Worms"**: All about carnivorous worms that grow uncontrollably.
- **"The Dark"**: Featuring a fog that turns people inside out.
- **"Poltergeist"**: A terrifying story of stones falling from the sky on a woman until she is buried alive.
Conclusion
"Lights Out" remains a legendary series in the annals of broadcasting and is an early example of the potent effects of media on mass emotions. Its legacy persists in the horror genre across various forms of media, influencing how stories can manipulate sound and narrative to create tension and fear. The program's inventive and often macabre narratives set a precedent for future horror productions, making it a seminal influence on the genre.

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