BEAUTY AND THE BEAST COMPANION
By Peter J. Formaini, USA

Special Episode Information (click here for contents)
Extracts from His Major Companion

Episode 14 (Series 1, Episode 14)
The Alchemist

Critical Rating 8.5 Violence Rating 7.5 Original Air Date January 22, 1988

Major Performance Credits

Jimmy Morero Joey Aresco Mary Ellen Geer
Paracelsus Tony Jay Tyler Jeffery Nordling
Claude Dana Gladstone Mary Katherine Heard
Farrel John Amos Zeke Albie Selznick
Major Production Credits Literary / Musical References
DIRECTOR Thomas J. Wright Teleplay By Alex Gansa, Howard Gordon
  • Browing, Robert (1812-1889) "Parcelsus" - a narrative poem about one Theophenastus Bombastus von Hohenheim, a polymath of the 13th century, who turned from knowledge and reason to mysticism and alchemy.  Despite his mysticism, made many advances in pharmacology. [Character Name]
EDITOR(s) Drake P. Silliman Story By Richard Setlowe

Milestones

Introduction of first resident Tunnel World villain
First seeds of doubt planted as to Vincent's origin and benefactor
First indication that the tunnels are far more extensive then the Tunnel World community and that some live below who are not part of the organized Tunnel World

Special Notes / Trivia

Catherine's annual salary as an assistant district attorney is $30,000.00, which is accurate in reality (at the time! [ed])
Paracelsus' real name is John Pater. The use of "Pater" as a last name is interesting as the great renaissance essayist and art critic and founder of the doctrine that art and aesthetics are ends in themselves was Walter Pater
You might recognize Tony Jay from his role in "Twins" and other films
That's no mistake in the credits - there were two "Mary's" in this episode.