Project Blue Book -
History Chanel
This brief commentary is not
meant to be a review of the
new theatrical series
launched on January 8, 2019
by History Channel built
around the life of Dr J.
Allen Hynek. Rather it
addresses a point that is of
particular importance for
those individuals drawn to
this series who have little
or no idea who Dr. Hynek is
or what he did.
I must admit to being a
little conflicted, but I can
deal with it. This series
will introduce a legend
within our community to
millions of people over the
coming months and years.
History Channel has made a
major commitment. Countless
ads have been run on
multiple networks including
an ad during the College
National Football
Championship - not a trivial
event. This is good.
Such a
commitment costs a lot of
money, and naturally there
has to be a substantial
return. That means a great
deal of theatrical license
is going to be taken.
History Channel has done
this with gusto and
certainly will receive some
criticism, but not from me.
That said, it
is important to publicly
point out the simple fact
there is quite a gap between
the theatrical presentation
of Hynek's life and the real
life. It would be helpful if
a fact vs. fiction page of
quality was developed and
updated as the series moves
forward. Researchers and
others might prepare for how
they will respond to
questions from the more
confused viewers who watch
and then Google.
Most
importantly, however, is the
need for a comprehensive
documentary of quality
covering the life and work
of Dr. Hynek. Obviously this
is a project the History
Channel might want to
commission.
Congratulations to all who
helped bring this series to
the screen and to Paul Hynek
and the Hynek family for
their permission and
cooperation. A great man
will begin to receive the
credit and attention he
deserves.
Now, lets
move on to Dr. John E. Mack.
Stephen
Bassett
January 9,
2019
Napa, CA
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