The Feathered Serpent

This interesting children's tv show from 1976 is based on a genuine Mexican tradition, which may have some basis in historical fact, about the rivalry between the cults of the war god Tezcatlipoca (in the series, called Teshcata) and the culture hero Quetzalcoatl (Quala in the series). Whatever the real history behind the myth is, the show is itself not historically accurate, but nonetheless it is an exciting story of court intrigue. The story has a well-written plot, and fine acting, especially from Patrick Troughton as a villainous high priest. It is well worth checking out as an unusual piece of 1970s tv.

I remember the scary chanting opening music with burning Aztec skulls etc. There was also a sort of whispered soundtrack notably behind Patrick Troughton's evil character Nasca (Whispered: "Nasca, Nascaaaa " etc. I also remember an episode in which the hero (Brian Deacon I think) is about to be burnt but he knows the exact time of the next solar eclipse and pretends that his magic has made the sky go black. Vague memories but boy would I love to see it again ! Anyone know if DVD is a possibility ? It's another of those adult kid shows like Children Of The Stones. The great thing about the was that it was a sort of horror type series for kids plus we learnt something about the ancient South American cultures.

I remember watching this British series for children, "The Feathered Serpent" when I was about 9 years old or so. I was very fascinated by it because I had just read in a children's book about world history about the Aztecs, and they captured my imagination, especially their worship of gods. I remember, from the series, the prince and the other boy, and how they had to find their way through a maze inside a temple. I also remember the young queen being trapped inside a room that was filled with screams, and the boys came to her rescue. Yes, I remember quite a bit, now I come to think of it. I also remember the scene towards the end when the evil priest becomes insane and declares that he is the dark god. I remember there were a great many childrens' historical TV series on at that time, but that was the only one that really captured my imagination... There is not much information about it on the Web.

Peace! Robert

Watching this again surprised me at just how well this series stands out. A superb production of it's time, with it's great cast, sets and costumes. Highly recommend.