A hidden gem for fans of Dark Shadows or any other horror series, Strange Paradise is currently airing on the Drive-In Channel in Canada. Few reviews so it's hard to validate some facts incl. some missing episodes and 195 total episodes vs. 130 (?) and whether or not there was a one-hour pilot !!?? First storyline runs until episode 65 during which the wealthy Jean-Paul Desmond and his sister-in-law Dr. Alison Carr perform cyrogenic experiments in an effort to bring Jean Paul's dead wife, Erica, back to life. It's not explained how she died. However, Jean Paul made a pact with the Devil and this causes him eternal torment and anguish and results in tragedy for everyone.
We're currently working our way through the second storyline where the set is now moved from Maljardin to Desmondton. The family mansion is called Desmond Hall and the members are either reported missing, as in the case of Phillip Desmond, or some have an agenda or something hide as in the case of Jean Paul's second cousin Cort & his overpowering stepfather, Laslo Thaxton. Jean Paul is still cursed; this time he transforms into a murderer shortly after seeing a red star and the Devil's mark appears on his left hand.
Great cast consisting of Colin Fox as Jean Paul Desmond, Jack Creley as Laslo Thaxton, as well as Bruce Gray from the first storyline. These actors still pop up on other Canadian TV series in present day programs. A real treat to see some of these actors "now and then" but even more entertaining is watching this Gothic soap for the first time. Hope to see all the episodes air including the reported "missing" ones. And if there really is a one-hour pilot, someone tell us how to get a copy.
21 out of 24 found this helpful