STEEL AND OTHER STORIES

Like so many movie and television productions over the past several decades, the recent Hollywood film REAL STEEL was based on a story by science fiction and fantasy master Richard Matheson. That particular story, “Steel,” is the excellent lead-off in this collection of more than a dozen Matheson gems, all brought to life with terrific drama, heart, and edge by Scott Brick. Holding their own amid his fantastic plots, Matheson’s main characters always have specific, memorable personalities. Brick makes the most of those detailed characterizations as listeners hear a scientist go back in time to witness the crucifixion, a hateful man who is an elegant orator experience his unique version of hell, and a broken-down boxer in the far-flung future go for that last big score. These are only three of the stories that will keep listeners immersed. J.P.M. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2012]