The Jolly Genie
(1964, U.S.) 40 minutes
With: Buddy Douglas (Ali Poo, the genie), Scotty Morrow (Johnnie Parker), Angela Stevens (Mildred Parker), Duncan McLeod (David Parker), Dana Dillaway (Janie Parker), Robert Nash (Grandpa Parker), Richard Farnsworth (thug)
One of the most obscure independent U.S. Kiddie Matinee movies, little is known about this 40-minute live-action fairy tale, other than it was released in November 1964. A glance at the strange production stills shows what a weird flick this must be. Add to this the sobering fact that it was produced and directed by Wesley A. Barry, who the year before gave us one of the most unusual and visionary science-fiction pictures of the 1960’s, CREATION OF THE HUMANOIDS, and you have a bona-fide sleeper-in-waiting. THE JOLLY GENIE also holds the distinction of being the first "credited" screen role for stuntman-turned-actor Richard Farnsworth, who soon went on to great acclaim in films such as COMES A HORSEMAN, THE GREY FOX and THE STRAIGHT STORY.
So for a mouth-watering glimpse into lost '60s cinema, please peruse the photographs below!
Video/DVD availability: VHS, DVD (unavailable)
Genie Productions / Emerson Pictures
National Screen Service #64-292
Screenplay: Wesley Barry, Lamar Criss
Cinematography: David S. Horsley
Produced by Al Amatuzio
Directed by Wesley Barry
