Director John Landis appeared in court on Wednesday and admitted to illegally hiring two child actors for the filming of a scene in the 1982 movie “Twilight Zone.”
The tragic accident occurred when a helicopter, struck by a special-effects explosion, lost control and killed the child actors as well as actor Vic Morrow.
Landis, the first defense witness in the involuntary manslaughter trial, stated that he had no idea the scene would be dangerous.
During his testimony, Landis disputed claims made by witnesses, including the parents of the child actors.
The parents had tearfully testified that they were not informed by Landis or other crew members about the proximity of their children to a low-flying helicopter and the special effects explosions.
However, Landis told the jury that he had explained the entire segment to the parents.
Although Landis admitted to not personally informing the parents about the lack of a necessary state permit to employ the children, he stated that he had instructed associate producer George Folsey Jr. to do so.
Landis revealed that the decision to hire children without a permit was made because the state labor commissioner’s office did not grant permits for late-night filming of children, not because of concerns about safety.
Landis acknowledged that breaking the law by employing children without a permit was wrong.
He and four associates, including Folsey, are facing involuntary manslaughter charges for acts of gross negligence that led to the three deaths.
Landis, who had previously given statements to federal safety investigators and the county grand jury, will continue his testimony today.
His attorney, James Neal, praised Landis for doing his best to remember and accurately recount the events.
Deputy District Attorney Lea Purwin D’Agostino questioned Landis’ truthfulness and criticized his demeanor as a witness.
D’Agostino suggested that Landis knew how to manipulate his performance as a director to appear hesitant or confident when necessary.
Throughout his testimony, Landis explained Hollywood terms and shared his journey from being a high school dropout working odd jobs to becoming a successful director.
He described how the idea for “Twilight Zone: The Movie” came about and his script for one of the segments involving Vic Morrow’s character experiencing the consequences of his own ignorance.
Landis refuted testimonies from witnesses, including the parents, a casting director, and a camera operator.
He denied statements made by casting director Marci Liroff that she found the mock Vietnam battle scene dangerous when he described it to her.
Landis also denied telling camera operator Stephen Lydecker that they might lose the helicopter during the scene.
Regarding safety concerns, Landis stated that he held meetings with his crew, including special-effects coordinator Paul Stewart and helicopter pilot Dorcey Wingo, where safety was addressed.
However, Deputy District Attorney D’Agostino argued that the accident occurred due to a lack of planning and coordination.
The trial will continue with D’Agostino cross-examining Landis today.
