Bold Venture


(4 stars; 5 reviews)


This recording is part of the Old Time Radio collection.

Reviews

Read Between the Lines


(5 stars)

This has to be my absolute favourite series. It is a pity though that only a small number have survived. Whilst Bacall is supposed to be Bogie's ward, if you listen carefully to the dialogue, there is enough inuendo, half said sentences and electricity that it is a wonder that some of the content of the scripts actually passed censorship at that time. I recall reading a very long spiel about Casablanca, the movie, and it was fact that the American Broadcasting Association had to step in a number of times to amend the script as it was considered unsuitable. It certainly does not rate up with "Escape" and the like, but if your preference is for light hearted and somewhat predictable endings then give this one a go. Again it is a real pity that more episodes are not available. AussieDavid

fans shouild check out 'Rocky Jordan' on archive


(4 stars)

Fans of Bold Venture should be aware that there is a similar (better IMHO) program called (variations on)"Rocky Jordan". There are about 90 episodes starring Jack Moyles: The writing, background sounds, sound quality, costars, and production values of Rocky Jordan are the best of the best. Rocky is strongly derivative of Bogart in Casablanca, in fact new listeners will think they are hearing Bogart's distinctive voice. Bold Venture is also a quality program, with Bogart front and center and good writing.

Uneven but entertaining


(4 stars)

Bogart and Bacall give these stories an uneven rendition. Sometimes they just bounce off each other and it sounds like both are enjoying the studio experience. Other times it sounds as though Bogart and Bacall are just clocking in to pick up their pay cheques with the flattest of renditions despite the excellent writing. This show clearly traded upon the names rather than the delivery. Pity for that. I suspect other professional radio stars could have produced a much better drama.

Bold Venture..a pretty good show


(4 stars)

I'm old enough to remember this show when I was 7 or 8. I thought it was really good as a kid. As an adult, I find it just a bit corny. The great thing is the Bacall and Bogart. They could make nearly any program great. I would not rate it 5 stars. The highest rating would be reserved for The Black Museum, Twilight Zone, or Gunsmoke

Cheesy, but classic


(3 stars)

Okay, so the writing is a little bit cheesy. The plots are ridiculously formulaic. The recordings aren't terribly good, bad enough that it can be hard to understand what everyone is saying. But it's Bogart and Bacall, and they really sell even the campiest lines. Every one of their interactions sizzle with wit and sexual tension. It's not Escape, or even Dangerous Assignment, but it's worth a listen.