A 1969 camera operators' strike created Upstairs Downstairs multiverse
The camera operators' union at ITV demanded a pay increase for operating color cameras, which the network refused. In response, the operators cleverly turned the color cameras into black-and-white ones by shutting off the red, green, and blue tubes, leaving only the black-and-white tube on. This resulted in the first six episodes of Upstairs/Downstairs being filmed in black-and-white, while the rest were in color. To make the series more appealing to American audiences, ITV reshot the first episode in color, altering the storyline to have Sarah, a housemaid, leave the show immediately, rather than in the third episode. This led to the creation of multiple versions of the first episode: a color version where Sarah leaves, a color version where she stays, and the original black-and-white version, which has since been lost.
The use of different camera systems in the US and UK during this period highlights the complexities of technology adoption and adaptation. The EMI 2001 camera used by ITV had four tubes, one for each primary color and one for luminance, whereas American cameras had three tubes, one for each primary color. This difference in technology led to the unique situation where ITV's cameras could easily be converted to shoot in black-and-white. The strike and its aftermath demonstrate the significant impact that labor disputes and technological limitations can have on media production.
The creation of multiple versions of the first episode of Upstairs/Downstairs has resulted in a confusing viewing experience for audiences. For example, on Roku and Tubi, viewers can watch the color version of the first episode, where Sarah quits, followed by the black-and-white episodes, where she quits again. This situation highlights the challenges of preserving and distributing classic television shows with complex production histories. It also underscores the importance of careful planning and coordination in media production to avoid such continuity nightmares.
Key Takeaways
The 1969 ITV camera operators' strike led to the creation of multiple versions of the first episode of Upstairs/Downstairs.
The strike resulted from a dispute over pay for operating color cameras, with the operators demanding a higher wage for their technical expertise.
The reshot first episode altered the storyline to accommodate American audiences, who would not have seen the black-and-white episodes.
The multiple versions of the first episode have led to a confusing viewing experience on some streaming platforms.
About the Source
This analysis is based on reporting by Hacker News. Here is a short excerpt for context:
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