Starting in 1969, “A Town Called Disdain” unfolds in the New Mexican desert, not far from where the US government conducted nuclear tests. The after-effects show up in some of the local characters, and sometimes in the landscape. Presented as a novel by Larry Winchester, a purported 60s B-movie screenwriter, the action ranges from wild west good guys (and gals) vs. bad ones, intergalactic aliens disguised as movie stars of the time, a roving gang of psycho-motorcycle killers, and the dashing couple, Dick and Daphne Ridpath.

Each episode makes sense on its own and plays with the pop sensibility of one genre or another. The dialog is addictive, whether it’s among the motorcycle killers, secret government agents, Hollywood hotshots, Disdain’s local people, an English pop singer, the café owner, or Doc, the local physician and WWII vet.

For me, the writing is the thing. The pace varies from quick and rhythmic to careful interior experiences unique to each character.

Above and beyond however, each episode begins with a riveting photograph and ends with a YouTube 60s song (or movie clip) certain to please the initiate and pique anyone else’s curiosity.

“The Town of Disdain” is in a class all its own. Go there and you won’t want to leave.

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