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Blondie's Secret (1948)
WHEN DOES THE VACATION START?
Ed Bernds, who directed many of the THREE STOOGES comedy shorts, officially took over the series with this episode and you can catch some of his "Stooge" touches here, especially with a couple of goofy crooks.
Dagwood and Blondie want to take a vaction, but Mr. Radcliffe keeps on holding Dagwood back at the office, what with making change after change to building blueprints. Thurston Hall, best at playing distinguished elder gents, plays Radcliffe's latest client, Mr. Whiteside.
The fun part to this story are ways to keep Dagwood and Blondie from taking a vacation; Radcliffe has Ollie (Jack Rice) sneak into their house at night and steal their luggage. You have to admit, that's pretty clever. But there's more mix-ups and twists to follow. Daisy bites Ollie, although he gets away, so in order to find out who stole their stuff, Dagwood puts out a fake story all about Daisy being rabid -- to expose the thief. Instead, Daisy is sent to the dogpound and Dagwood and Blondie's vacation is stalled again.
Then there's a funny money situation when Blondie accidentally switches purses with a counterfeiter's gal pal (played by popular actress Greta Granstedt). The two crooks (Murray Alper and Bill Phillips) sneak into the Bumstead's house to get Greta's purse --at exactly the same time Ollie is sneaking in to return the luggage!
Very good comedy writing on the part of Jack Henley, who would go on to write for the MA AND PA KETTLE movie series.
Lots of familiar faces here, like Frank Orth as Mr. Philpotts and Joseph Crehan playing a police sergeant, a role he played dozens of times.
By the way, Dagwood gets to sing "Oh, Susanna."
Another salute to Arthur Lake, one funny actor.
Always on dvd, sold separately or the entire series in a box set. Thanks to MOVIES Net for running this series on Saturday mornings.
Munster, Go Home! (1966)
THE MUNSTERS IN COLOR!
A film that brings back lots of memories, a salute to the famous sitcom (that ran for only two seasons) but remains enormously popular to this day. Best of it is we finally get to see the Munster family in technicolor, and its a gas. A lot of work and love went into this production, written by creators Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher, and also George Tibbles, known for MY THREE SONS.
Herman inherits Munster Hall, a famous castle in England, and with it enraged, insulted distant relatives who want to see he and his family eliminated, and the sooner the better. More over, the Munster name has apparently been soiled, and it takes Herman to save the day.
A real deal treat to watch, mainly due to an outstanding cast of veterans. Former Dracula John Carradine seemed a natural here, playing the stuffy butler, Cruikshank, and having fun with the role. Comedienne Hermione Gingold lives it up as Lady Effigie Munster and Terry Thomas as Feddie Munster. These three make the movie, especially Gingold a master scene stealer and usually with the best lines.
Look for tv regulars Bernard Fox (BEWITCHED) as Squire Moresby and Richard Dawson (HOGANS HEROES) as Joey. Ben Wright, popular character actor and a master of dialects, plays Hennesy.
While tv series regulars Fred Gwynne, Yvonne DeCarlo, Al Lewis and Butch Patrick reprised their roles, Pat Priest was replaced by rising star Debbie Watson as Marilyn, who had signed a contract with Universal. Watson had starred in two short-lived tv series at the time, especially known for her strawberry blonde hair.
The movie would not be complete without some classic wheels for all us buffs. This was naturally woven into the plot where Herman takes part in a cross-country road race to restore the Munster name. Famous car designer George Barris, who invented the BATMOBILE, and the original Munster buggy, designed Herman's cool race car, called the "Drag-ula car," which has to be seen in action, and all the more reason for color. The car could have easily been used on BATMAN as well. It had that wild wheels look.
The famous race was filmed at the legendary Paramount western ranch at Agoura, California, still open to the public for tours today. Top direction by veteran Earl Bellamy, who directed episodes for the original tv series. Makeup was done by master artist Bud Westmore, who created lots of famous monsters in his day.
Interestingly, this camp film may have inspired the popular episodes on THE BEVERLY HILLBILLIES, where Jed also inherits a castle in England, minus the skullduggery.
Long running time at 96 minutes. Always on remastered dvd and blu ray. A Halloween treat for decades on many cable networks, and thanks to Svengoolie for running this gem on his tv show.
The Beverly Hillbillies: Jethro's Pad (1966)
JETHRO AND THE KITTY KATS!
A WOW episode. Yes, one of the greatest. And in color. The color episodes were the absolute best, marking a turning point in the series.
Prime example of creative writing and acting, without a doubt that inspired future sitcoms like LOVE, AMERICAN STYLE. The idea was there to be sure, certainly for the appearance of beautiful Elly May, caught up in some goofy romances herself.
But the spotlight is on Jethro here, outrageous as Max Baer could ever be. And loving it. Jethro believes a cool Hollywood pad is the key to getting girls. And there's some fine young ladies in this unforgettable episode.
He begins to think of himself as the next Hugh Hefner, that alone is laugh out loud outrageous. Note the mention of "Playpen" magazine, an obvious take-off on Heff's famous PLAYBOY magazines.
Hence the appearance of beautiful Edy Williams, soon to marry cult film producer Russ Meyer. Williams was in a class by herself, both as a model and actress.
Two other gorgeous ladies appear as Kitty Kat showgirls; Bettina Brenna, married to tv producer Richard O. Linke. Bettina appeared in 8 episodes of the show, and for good reason. Also Phyllis Davis, playing Kitty Kat girl number 2, known for VEGAS. A very early role for Phyllis, who made her film debut the same year.
Written by the team of Robert Schaefer and Eric Freiwald, who wrote, believe it or not, countless episodes for LASSIE. About as close to a risque Walter Mitty dream sequence if there ever was.
And you have to admit, Jethro was a daytime dreamer who we all loved.
Do not miss this. A must. Thank you Max Baer for so many wild memories.
SEASON 4 EPISODE 28 remastered color dvd box set. Classic color box cover you have to see.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: Cop for a Day (1961)
THE LADY WHO KNEW TOO MUCH.
Perhaps the best episode of the season, when it comes to a totally unexpected ending. You have to see this through.
No better combination to make this a 10 Star episode, thanks to series director Paul Henreid and writer Henry Slesar, who wrote close to 40 episodes for Hitch. What a marvelous team.
An excellent character study, and for that matter, a duel between two crooks -- one more mature, the other young, inexperienced and crazy. Walter Matthau plays Phil, a robber who masterminds a bank heist with his partner, Davey (played by Glenn Cannon). In the process, a courier is shot and killed --and there's a witness, who happens to be a woman (played by Carol Grace).
Now the fun begins. Phil wants to lay low and quiet, while gun happy Davey wants it his way. The two subsequently impersonate cops, their target being the witness, so they can kill her and make a clean break. And the walls come tumbling down.
Matthau and Cannon make a fantastic team, and play well off each other, special thanks to director Paul Henreid. Slesar's dialogue is sharp, especially with the two alone, sharing a cheap, dreary apartment.
Matthau went on to become a leading film comedian, even winning an Oscar, but was equally as effective playing some dark characters. This may be one of his most memorable dramatic tv roles. Cannon, later in his career, went on to become a noted professor of theatre arts at the University of Hawaii.
According to film lore; actress Carol Grace, who was a friend of author Truman Capote, was, in fact, the model for the iconic role of Holly Golightly in BREAKFAST AT TIFFANYS. She is that person. Super trivia question.
Best of SEASON 7 EPISODE 4 remastered Universal dvd box set. 5 dvds. Released 2015.
The Beverly Hillbillies: The Beautiful Maid (1966)
JULIE NEWMAR VISITS THE CLAMPETTS.
A terrific PR stunt by CBS, certainly a ratings grab at the time to keep the series in the Top 10.
Julie Newmar (alias the Catwoman on BATMAN), probably tv's most famous villain at the time, makes a surprise guest appearance on the show, BUT... in a far different role. Much credit to series writer Paul Henning, who turns this into another prime example of creative writing 101.
Newmar plays Ulla Bergstrom, a Swedish actress(?) working at Jed's studio with not much of a future. Mr. Drysdale wants to send her back home --until he meets her. And then comes a brilliant idea...
Ulla playing a hillbilly(?) and in a new film about a backwoods "country girl" (?). To soak up some local color, Miss Jane suggests she room with Jed, Granny, Ellie and Jethro. And wait til Jethro gets to meet Ulla. As always, outrageous dialogue and one liners thrown in for good measure. Check out Jethro's sporty new ride. You had to credit the series for some sleek cars, even Miss Jane drove a cool red convertible.
Julie Newmar works her magic in this classic episode, a memorable post Catwoman tv role. Popular character actor Milton Frome also returns as studio chief, Mr. Chapman.
A gotsta' see for tv buffs. Best of SEASON 4 EPISODE 27 remastered CBS dvd box set. 4 dvd set. Released 2014.
The Beverly Hillbillies: Flatt and Scruggs Return (1966)
MORE DOWN HOME COUNTRY MUSIC!
A super episode with the return of Lester Flatt and Earl Scruggs, old friends of Jed and Granny. They appeared in a previous episode to cheer up Granny when she was really homesick.
This time around Lester has a wife (Gladys), played by popular blonde actress Joi Lansing. Joi made six appearences on the show. NATURALLY... Granny teaches Gladys how to cook. Must see TV.
Some classic banjo music as can be expected --always a treat. Best of the best comes at the very beginning when Jethro re-designs (?) the buggy with helicopter blades so they can escape traffic jams? Jethro gives Jed a demonstration ride and UP they go! The bad news is coming down, and the jalopy crashes in the driveway. BOOM. Jed's looks at Jethro are priceless. Excellent writing from series writer Paul Henning.
Lots of fun and memories here. Flatt & Scruggs wrote the famous theme soung and were elected to the Country Hall of Fame.
SEASON 4 EPISODE 25 remastered color. 4 dvd box set. Released 2014. The famous box set with Jed and his pitchfork on the cover.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: Make My Death Bed (1961)
THE HITCHCOCK SOAP OPERA!
Not a bad idea for Hitch to dabble with soap opera material, kind of mocking PEYTON PLACE. Could have been the idea behind this, and with a talented cast to pull it through.
James Best, truly a versatile actor, plays Bish, a hound dog who sets his eyes on a pretty young lady called Elise (played by Diane Van der Vlis). Both are married, but Bish is downright shameless and gets everything that's coming to him. Enter Ken (Joe Flynn in a good dramatic role), husband of Elise who SHOOTS the guy, although let's face it, his wife ain't no sweet thing herself.
And there's more to come. Don't stop there! You have to love this stuff, especially if you're into cheating couples, hence the soap opera theme -- with a macabre twist. That's the clincher and waiting for the ending is always a treat. Can you guess what happens?
An episode with an excellent cast; notably Diana Van der Vlis, co-star on RYANS HOPE and stage and movie actress Madeleine Sherwood, playing Bish's unfortunate wife. Look for tough guy Biff Elliot as Dr. Hudson.
From a story by Babs H. Deal, who in the 70s wrote the phenom tv movie, FRIENDS, SECRETS AND LIES. A movie that should be remade.
From SEASON 6 EPISODE 37 remastered dvd box set. A very popular box set.
77 Sunset Strip: The Dresden Doll (1960)
THE CASE OF DEADLY DOLLY!
Outstanding cross-over episode with the cast from HAWAIIAN EYE briefly meeting up with Stu, Jeff and Rex. The main attraction is sexy, shifty Dolly (played to the hilt by Myrna Fahey), whose old boyfriend (HM Wynant) is BIg trouble for her new husband and Jeff. Just in case, she even asks Roscoe to kill the guy!
Dolly is now married to a very wealthy gent called Steven Stewart (Raymond Bailey), who turned her life around, and Jerry (Wynant) wants to nail him. Keep in mind that if he dies, she inherits his fortune. In a bizarro scene, Jerry tells Jeff to keep his distance by shooting bullets around his head and into a wall! Not too long after that, crazy Jerry nearly runs Jeff down.
Not done yet. Jerry manages to sneak into the hospital where Steven is staying and attempts to kill him. The insanity finally comes to an end when Dolly confronts Jerry, takes matters into her own hands, and stabs him to death. Is it all over? Jeff enters the scene, in the wrong place at the wrong time, and what's his fate? A real wild ride.
Some excellent performances here; Myrna Fahey is perfect as Dolly, and never more beautiful. Myrna also appeared on HAWAIIAN EYE. HM Wynant plays one heck of a bad guy here and Raymond Bailey (a few years before the BEVERLY HILLBILLIES) is your typical rich older gentleman.
Excellent direction by William Hole, Jr., best known for producing and directing PEYTON PLACE.
Brief walk-on appearance at the beginning by Robert Conrad (Tom), followed by Tracy (Anthony Eisley), Poncie Ponce and Connie Stevens (Cricket). Rex (Richard Long) and Stu (Efrem Zimbalist, Jr) have bit roles, but still fun to watch.
Some great music by pianist Frankie Ortega and his band. And Cricket gets to sing.
The gang's all here in one memorable adventure.
A one of a kind episode. SEASON 3 EPISODE 15 remastered. Now on dvd, select episodes and the entire series.
77 Sunset Strip: The Duncan Shrine (1960)
THE HOLLYWOOD MURDER MYSTERY.
Rex gets himself involved with old Hollywood and legendary cowboy star Dustin W. Duncan, kind of a cross between Tom Mix and Rudolph Valentino. Much like Valentino, a mysterious veiled lady visits his grave, amid lots of publicity. But there's more, a gigantic horse statue at the cemetery has been stolen.
Cemetery manager Mr. Friend (played by Richard Deacon) hires Rex to track down the statue, which brings countless fans to the star's grave and lots of publicity. What a case with many Hollywood types with things to hide and, yes, a murder.
Tag this 10 Stars.
The cast is super, lead by Donald Woods, playing Frank Baker, an old pal of Duncans, Meg Wiley as Rose, a lady who may have a "secret" connection to Duncan, and the star's old flame, Bessie St. Clair, played to the hilt by popular character actress Marjorie Bennett. Bennett is a stand out, re-living the 1920s and singing "Bye Bye Blackbird!"
Written with style by series regular Gloria Elmore, who also wrote for HAWAIIN EYE. Director Irving J. Moore gets the cast going, and adds some noirish atmosphere. A nice touch. Moore later went on to direct DALLAS and DYNASTY.
Can you guess whodunit? Richard Long (from BOURBON STREET BEAT) always a class act.
From SEASON 3 EPISODE 10 remastered. Now on dvd in various box sets, including the entire series. Thanks again to ME TV PLus for running this terrific series on Sunday nights.
Mission: Impossible: The Bargain (1968)
THE M.I. TEAM AND THE MOB.
Solid direction by Richard Benedict, who did some fine work on many cop shows, originally an actor.
It another mob story --which are always exciting-- and leading the pact is noneother than versatile Albert Paulson, playing General Neyron. One of those I'll scratch your back if you scratch mine deals. Neyron, who is living in exile in Miami, teams with mobster Frank Layton (Warren Stevens) who will pour money into a coup which will insure him a return to power --IF-- he legalizes gambling casinos. Not a bad deal, if you're the crooked type, obviously the general getting the best of it.
The M. I. team subsequently descends on Neyron's estate, cleverly gaining access and throwing a monkeywrench into the best laid plans. Paulson is super in this role, appearing in four additional episodes. He was born in Ecuador, though specialized in European roles, especially playing Germans.
Good writing on the part of Robert E. Thompson, popular with westerns, like HAVE GUN WILL TRAVEL and BONANZA.
I agree with the goof notes, yes, there's a lady wearing an orange dress who pops up multiple times in a hotel scene. Common mistakes in many tv shows, although considering the fashion industry, designers may have wanted to get lots of exposure for their dress. Very clever, but who knows?
SEASON 3 EPISODE 10 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set. 7 dvd set.
The Alfred Hitchcock Hour: The Magic Shop (1964)
THE LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS.
I agree with the last reviewers, this story could have easily doubled for a TWILIGHT ZONE episode. And how many times have I written about a TZ episode that could have doubled for Hitch. Possibilities exist.
Actually based on a story by HG Wells, brought to tv by acclaimed British writer John Collier, who wrote many episodes for the master of suspense. The British stick together. The story is a real chiller, and with a boy (played by John Megna) the center of attention. Megna plays Tony who is brought to a weird magic shop by his father, Mr. Grainger (Leslie Neilsen). The strange owner of the place, Mr. Dulong (David Opatashu) takes a liking to Tony and some very dangerous things begin to happen. In a way, this story could be described as a forerunner to THE EXORCIST, even though it was based on a true story. Also shades of the famous TZ episode about the boy (Billy Mumy) who controlled a town.
Young John Megna is the whole show, popular child actor who appeared in such film classics as TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD. John was the half brother of singer and actress Connie Stevens. Leslie Neilsen has a good role as the concerned father, and actress Peggy McCay plays his mother.
Must see for Hitch buffs. Best of SEASON 2 EPISODE 13 remastered Universal dvd box set. Collectors edition.
The Twilight Zone: Dust (1961)
THE MAGIC DUST EPISODE.
Got to love this one, especially for the unforgettable Thomas Gomez, a master of characterizations and an Oscar nominee. Why he did not win an Oscar in his long career is a mystery. He was one of the very best.
Gomez plays (and to the hilt) a weatherbeaten old timer called Sykes in a dusty Arizona town, one of the many spectators who have come to see a drunk (played by John A. Alonzo) hung for the accidental death of a child. To his defense is earnest sheriff
John Larch, who believes Luis (Alonzo) should not be hung for the crime, but there's outrage and anger in the air.
So what to do? Sykes, a crafty salesman, just happens to have "magic dust" that will, in effect, change the mood of the hour. Thomas Gomez is so fascinating to watch in this role, it's a must see for whatever happens next. And something definitely will happen, thanks to Rod Serling. A borderline story that could have doubled for an Alfred Hitchcock tv episode.
Exceptionally directed by noted producer and writer
Douglas Heyes, who was also directing episodes for Boris Karloff's tv show, THRILLER. Heyes directed 9 episodes for TZ, and this has to be one of the best.
Look for popular character actress Dorothy Adams as Mrs. Canfield, famous for playing worried and frightened women, and in many classic films (THE TEN COMMANDMENTS).
Outstanding cast at work. A must see.
SEASON 2 EPISODE 12 remastered/CBS.
Gilligan's Island: The Sweepstakes (1965)
BEING RICH... FOR A FEW MINUTES!
Classic stuff written by Walter Black, known for MR. MAGOO and SPACE GHOST. A hero to all us kids back in the day. This is really wacky.
Gilligan becomes a millionaire, holding the winning ticket from a South American sweepstakes! Amazing. IMMEDIATELY (if not sooner)... he is welcomed by Mr. Howell to the millionaire's club, and with an entry fee of $50,000! Of course, Mr. Howell firmly belives it takes money to make money and has BIG plans for Gilligan.
BUT what happens when the ticket is lost? Everyone goes nuts trying to find it. And comes a memorable "dream sequence," you have to see...
Mr. Howell plays an old, bearded prospector who strikes a million dollars in gold. Jim Backus is a hoot in this role, and playing a shady game of cards with the Skipper. Everything goes wrong for this poor old geezer.
If you're a Brady Bunch fan, his role was very similar to a part he played in a Season 3 episode, locking the Bradys in an old west jail so they wouldn't steal his gold claim.
A gotsta see, and a salute to Mr. Howell, a real cool guy when the chips are down. Watch the ending.
SEASON 2 EPISODE 5 remastered color. 3 dvd box set/CBS released 2005 and 6 dvd set released 2012.
The Beverly Hillbillies: Clampett Castle (1967)
WELCOME TO THE CASTLE!
This wacky episode has to remind you of something from BENNY HILL. No question. First off, it's beautifully filmed on location in England and with lots of wild stuff at a very real castle.
The Clampetts finally reach their inherited castle, but now have to get used to the British way of life, not to mention tales of knights in shining armor and dragons. That's where Jethro comes in, now dressed as a knight on horseback riding around the grounds.
Granny goes absolutely nuts in this one, funny as heck, somehow trying to restore civility. Not EZ.
Mr. Drysdale also arrives at the castle, getting a ride on horseback thanks to Jethro. See to believe. Ellie May has the coolest of COOL jobs, way atop the castle, standing in the look-out tower keeping watch for visitors. Donna Douglas looks like she's having a blast way up there. Special guest star is Ernest Clark, playing Cedric Giles Evans, well known British stage and tv actor. At the time, Clark was vice president of the British actors union.
Outstanding filming at legendary Penshurst Place and Gardens (built in 1341), the ancestral home of acclaimed British poets Mary and Philip Sidney, and with an extraordinarly long history. The castle was opened to the public at the end of WW II to pay for damage during the war.
A must see episode, especially for travel buffs.
Best of SEASON 6 EPISODE 3 remastered color/CBS.
The first five seasons are in box sets. Latter episodes sold separately, some produced overseas.
The Beverly Hillbillies: The Clampetts in London (1967)
THE FAMOUS CASTLE EPISODE.
Prime example, especially by the sixth season, of outstanding writing and directing. This was a trip for all us kids back in the day; a story about Jed inheriting a castle in England. Also a clever way to change the scenery, and have a fun with the customs and traditions of another country, compared to the do's and don't's of Beverly Hills.
Buddy Atkinson wrote this episode, and at least 50 others, naturally putting Jethro (sporting his 6th grade education) in charge of the grande tour. Only he could confuse San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge for the London Bridge? He points to Alcatraz island and says its one of the British isles. Amazing. Finally they get to London! There's much built around amateur doctor Granny in this story, her medical supplies impounded by customs. Super teaming with her and BATMAN's Alan Napier (as a chemist), especially with him reciting Shakespeare? A gotsta' see moment.
Classic dialogue as always; Jed receiving 25 pounds of British money -- thinking about how much it weighs? You have to love this. I agree with the last reviewer, about as good as it gets for the latter season episodes, expertly directed by Joseph Depew, behind the top rated show for most of its run.
May have been inspired by the famous MUNSTERS movie (Munster, Go Home) which also got the cast to England, only with a haunted castle.
Not to be missed. Best of SEASON 6 EPISODE 2 remastered color. Much like MY THREE SONS, the first five seasons are always on dvd. Later seasons boxed separately, some released through European distribution and may not be adaptable to American made dvd players. Be sure to check specs. Many thanks to METV for running this grand daddy of sitcoms over and over again.
The Brady Bunch: To Move or Not to Move (1970)
PACK UP YOUR TROUBLES...
The biggest question of all, especially if you were a fan of this show; HOW COME the house only had one bathroom upstairs? Then again... it wasn't built for six kids. That's the story here where everybody feels crowded and its time to move!
This is a super episode, and relatable if you ever moved to a new house when you were a kid.
Its the guys versus the girls who are tired of bumping into each other. So Mike and Carol start searching for a bigger home -- and then reality sets in. The old place has lots of memories, especially for
Greg, Peter and Bobby who grew up there.
Comes the secret plan to scare away anyone who is interested in buying it. Scaring Alice is always fun, and this episode is reminsicent of a later season episode where Alice REALLY gets spooked.
Enter Mrs. Hunsaker (played by Fran Ryan), who likes the place -- and the gang sets their master plan into action.
10 Star classic episode from the first season, written by Paul West, who was behind FATHER KNOWS BEST and the DONNA REED SHOW. This was the only appearance of Fran Ryan, a popular actress on shows like DORIS DAY and GUNSMOKE, also in soap operas.
Fran was on tv and movies for years, a master of character roles, and its a shame she didn't come back for another episode.
This episode also marked a long running feud between Robert Reed and producer Sherwood Schwartz. Reed claimed the story was stupid and refused to appear in the ghost scenes. This would go on for years until he finally quit the show at the end of the fifth season.
SEASON 1 remastered Paramount dvd box set. 4 dvds. Released 2005.
Blondie's Reward (1948)
DAGWOOD IN THE SWAMP.
This episode marked the series 10th year, and it was goofy business as usual. Once again, poor Dagwood is played the fool, getting mixed up with two cons (Frank Jenks and Chick Chandler), and buying swamp land for Mr. Radcliffe. Dagwood gets demoted... but there's always some hope.
Ross Ford (as Ted) turns out to be Dagwood's good luck charm, pretending to be him and in a strange turn of events, happens to punch out the no-account future son-in-law of Radcliffe's client, Mr. Dickson (played by the ever popular Paul Harvey). Dickson takes a liking to Dagwood and the swamp land --in the end -- turns out to be a valuable piece of property.
Well written by Ed Bernds, who was also writing and directing the THREE STOOGES short films at Columbia Pictures. Bernds continued the tradition of giving Dagwood incredible dumb luck. This was a common thread in the series, finding Dagwood in charge of buying something, even animals, such as a Great Dane in a previous episode, only discover what he purchased was worth a small fortune. Always fun to see Dagwood awkwardly come out on top.
This episode is filled with some fine character actors, namely Harvey and Chandler, also Frank Jenks as a cop and veteran Chester Clute as Mr. Blodgett. Young Ross Ford would later appear on the RED SKELTON SHOW.
Classic bit finds Dagwood varnishing the dining room floor and painting himself into a corner. Arthur Lake's stunned looks are priceless.
Final episode directed by Abby Berlin, who was with the series since the beginning, also working as assistant director. He definitely was an authority on the series. Berlin switched to tv and became director for LIFE OF RILEY and the ANN SOTHERN SHOW.
Always on dvd, either sold separately or in a box set featuring the entire series. Thanks always to MOVIES Net for running this classic sitcom on Saturday mornings.
The Story of Temple Drake (1933)
MIRIAM HOPKINS AT HER BEST.
Despite all the controversy -- once upon a time -- about this outstanding film, Miriam Hopkins said it was her finest hour. She was absolutely right. A film not to be forgotten, based on the fiery novel by William Faulkner, but toned down considerably for censorship upon its release in 1933.
Masterfully written by Oliver H. P. Garrett, who the following year would share an Oscar with Joseph L. Mankiewicz for MANHATTEN MELODRAMA. Hopkins, as southern belle (with an attitude) Temple Drake, has the misfortune of ending up one stormy night at a remote house in the country filled with bootleggers. She catches the eye of notorious Trigger (memorably played by Jack LeRue) who rapes her and forces her to be his sex slave. The incredible catch to the story finds Temple remaining with this fiend, also responsible for the cold blooded murder of a boy (James Eagles), and is instrumental in proving the innnocence of another man (Irving Pichel) falsely accused of the crime.
A fascinating story, if not character study of a daring young woman, fast-forwarding to a riveting courtroom trial that involves her boyfriend (William Gargen), a lawyer, and her grandfather (Sir Guy Standing), a distinguished judge. The question is whether Temple will reveal her past to save Pichel from being executed.
Everything clicks, guaranteed to keep your attention, and in fact, will stick with you long after the film has ended. Director Stephen Roberts, who began his career directing comedies, is to be credited for bringing out the very best in the leads; Jack LaRue, much like Miriam Hopkins, also in what may be his finest role. Irving Pichel, later to become a director in his long career, turns in a memorable performance as the innocent man on trial. Applause for co-star William Gargen as Benbow and Sir Guy Standing. Originally, in Faulkner's book, the judge was Temple's father, changed to her grandfather in the film.
Popular juvenile actor James Eagles plays Tommy, the unfortunate victim, also look for Louise Beavers as Minnie and John Carradine in a bit part in the courtroom. Carradine made is film debut a few years earlier.
To note, the film, which made a handsome profit for Paramount, was pulled from circulation the following year due to strict production codes and not seen again on screen for at least 20 years. The rumor about Miriam Hopkins character being raped on screen was, in fact, nothing but a rumor, there were no prints or out-takes of any kind to that effect. However, the controversial scene where LaRue corners Hopkins and her helpless scream was enough to bring the curtain down on the film.
JOHNNY BELINDA, some 15 years later, again tackled the red flag issue, though this time around actress Jane Wyman earned an Oscar for her role. I agree with the last reviewer. Had Temple Drake not been the subject of so much swirling controversy at the time, Miriam Hopkins probably would have won an Oscar.
Additionally, there were some (brief) horror elements thrown in by Paramount, the cutaway scene to the bootleggers remote house, looking more like a haunted house on a stormy night. Paramount was also producing a series of old dark house thrillers and director Roberts no doubt took advantage of some of the sets. The movie was subsequently added to a few horror film lists, possibly due to the fact Hopkins previously starred in DR JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE. Obviously a mistake.
Thanks to TCM for re-running this movie great, and also partly responsible for its remastering on dvd and blu ray. A must see for completists and fans of Miriam Hopkins who next starred in DESIGN FOR LIVING.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: Final Arrangements (1961)
LETS HAVE A FUNERAL.
Hitch was always preoccupied with the average man who had a terrible marriage -- and what to do about it. A fascinating storyline that could go in so many directions. Robert Arthur wrote this episode, also a writer for Boris Karloff's tv show (THRILLER), so you know it has possibilities.
I agree with the last reviewer, and its a good point to be made. Aside from the unforgettable stories, the series featured some memorable actors, case in point Martin Balsam, who plays Leonard, the very unhappy husband. The twist here is he's saddled with double trouble; not only is his wife a nag, BUT she's also bedridden. Bottom line, he's really, really stuck.
Arthur cleverly added one more drag; Leonard's wife (well played by Vivian Nathan) could be on the road to recovery IF she followed doctors' orders and simply got out of bed. However, why give up a good life of being waited on hand and foot?
Leonard's first move is to visit an undertaker, and as a devout husband would, arranging for an elaborate funeral. That should raise an eyebrow. You probably could guess what happens next, and comparing macabre notes at the end is the fun part. This is why Hitch was the master of suspense, because his stories also allowed you to think on the dark side. Guessing various endings was the absolute best. Still is!
Vivian Nathan is perfect for this role, a popular character actress for years, usually in dramatic roles. Also look for western sidekick Slim Pickens and Bartlett Robinson playing the doctor. Robinson made a career of playing professionals, and so good at it.
10 Stars. SEASON 6 EPISODE 36 remastered Universal dvd box set. The famous yellow cover box set.
Batman: The Duo Defy (1967)
DO WHAT I SAY OR FREEEEEEZE!
No account Mr. Freeze (Eli Wallach) kidnaps Professor Isaacson (Elisha Cook, Jr), demanding the secret formula behind his incredible hermodynamic ray beam, capable of freezing everything in its path. Bottom line; he wants LOTS of money or he will freeze Gotham, and next the world. Unfortunately, the "cold" professor can't remember the formula. Calling beautiful Glacia Glaze to "warm" him up?
And where is the master villain hiding out? Noneother than a glacier of his choice. Outrageous, campy stuff written by Charles Hoffman, who also served as script supervisor for the series through its entire run. Hoffman had some very creative ideas for this episode -- Batman and Robin vaporized! Very original. Yes, they escape, and now have to find Freeze's elusive glacier ASAP among hundreds of others... Enter the famous BATCOPTER, and what a treat to see in action. The copter was a real helicopter that made its debut in the 1966 feature film, owned by National Helicopter Services which charged big bucks to use it, not to mention re-converting it with Bat accesories. But worth every penny.
Peppered with some off the wall dialogue from Mr. Freeze, and Eli Wallach makes a neat villain with a German accent. Hogans Heroes? I agree with the last reviewer, his style is lot different than Otto Preminger's brooding portrayal, but Wallach has fun with the role and it shows. Only debit is Elisha Cook didn't make more appearances on the show. He was a legendary character actor, especially in noir mysteries.
Leslie Parrish returns as Glacia Glaze, naturally a sight to see, and catch HM Wynant as Frosty, popular on westerns, like GUNSMOKE.
This one runs fast and will keep your attention, especially for the Batcopter. Dedicated to all us long time fans who loved the Bat transportation. From SEASON 2 EPISODE 60. Remastered color, Vol 1 and 2. 4 dvd sets. Released 2015 with a classic purple cover.
Is My Face Red? (1932)
THIS GUY IS LUCKY TO BE ALIVE!
This was the type of film William Haines was so famous for at the time, only the role went to Ricardo Cortez. It's all about a guy with one heck of an ego, living on the edge of his seat and in BIG trouble with the ladies. Translation: lots of fun.
Cortez plays Bill Poster, a daring tabloid reporter, looking for the scoop of the day. He uses his chorus dancer gal pal Peggy (played by beautiful Helen Twelvetrees) to get him the latest gossip. These two are supposed to eventually get married, that is until he meets up with socialite Mildred Huntington (Jill Esmond), giving her the engagement ring that was meant for Peggy. What a guy!
Of course, being the tricky fool he is... Bill may also be playing a game with Mildred to get her to spill the beans about her rich friends. Hmmm? In the meanwhile, his exploits get him mixed up with notorious bootlegger Tony (played by future Charlie Chan Sidney Toler), who he witnesses kill a guy -- and now he's in even bigger trouble. What a mess, and don't y'all love it.
Ricardo Cortez is terrific in this role, best at playing both good guys and cads. Also a fine role for Helen Twelvetrees and British actress Jill Esmond, who at the time was married to Laurence Olivier. Robert Armstrong (prior to KING KONG) appears as Ed, comedienne Zasu Pitts plays a phone operator and sparky Arline Judge has a good part as Bill's secretary. Can't beat this cast.
Hits the bullseye thanks to director William A. Seiter, no stranger to comedy, associated with Laurel and Hardy, WC Fields, the Marx Brothers and Abbott and Costello. In fact, it was said Seiter looked a bit like Oliver Hardy!
Not to be missed. Always on remastered dvd and thanks to TCM for running this oldie but goodie.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: You Can't Trust a Man (1961)
BLAST FROM THE PAST.
This was Polly Bergen's only appearance on the show, and that's a shame. A dynamic actress. Here, she plays a nightclub singer saddled with a brute of a husband (well played by Joe Maross), who went to prison for a crime she committed.
First off, he's a darned fool. Second, she should of divorced him years ago, changed her name and just disappeared. In a way, they both deserve each other.
Veteran actor Frank Albertson plays the new man in her life, but will they ever get to live happily ever after. Or is there a happily ever after?
The ending is a knockout, and watch Bergen's face. Can you believe it?
Exceptionally written by Helen Nielson, who wrote several good episodes for Hitch. Another gem directed by Paul Henreid, best with Joe Maross, in what may be one of his finest performances.
Bergen, in later years, was known for WAR AND REMEMBERENCE and DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES. Not too long after this episode, she would land one of her best film roles in CAPE FEAR.
Best of SEASON 6. EPISODE 30. Remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Classic Mannix cover for all us long time fans.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Gloating Place (1961)
THE WHITE GLOVE KILLER!
Robert Bloch (PSYCHO) was a master of this sort of creepy stuff, and a favorite of Hitch.
The story is short, but not so sweet. Susan Harrison plays a high schooler who craves attention. So she makes up a story about being attacked by a serial killer --only she got away. This makes her a local celeb, but not long enough. Enter a beautiful girl named Marjorie (played by Marta Kristen from LOST IN SPACE). Aside from having a big ego, Susan is also the jealous type, which spells doom for Marjorie. Watch how this all plays out, and with a few grim surprises from Mr. Bloch. The ending is not to be missed.
Look for veteran actress Erin O'Brien Moore as Mrs. Harper. Moore was a regular on tv's PEYTON PLACE.
Another very good effort by director Alan Crosland, Jr, especially with Susan Harrison. Although she didn't appear in many tv shows in her brief career, Harrison did guest star in an episode of TWILIGHT ZONE and became a cult tv figure, later appearing at a TZ convention. She passed in 2019.
Note the joke; Susan is attending Shamley High School, named after Hitchcock's production company, Shamley Productions. North Hollywood High School was not that far away from the studio, but never got credit.
From SEASON 6. EPISODE 31. Remastered dvd box set. 5 dvds. Released 2013 and 2015. The box with the classic yellow cover.
The Angry Red Planet (1959)
BEWARE OF THE 40 FOOT MONSTER!
PROBABLY... what a high-budget Ed Wood sci fi would look like. American International Pictures gave director Ib Melchior a budget of at least $200,000 dollars, and there's reports it was even higher. The money was put to good use, this sci fi definitely has it's moments, and yet another classic all us kids grew up watching. The only problem is many tv sets back in the day were in black and white, and this is a color film.
First off, the color (known as Cinemagic) gave the film an offbeat red tint, hence the title. And it's fun to watch, atleast it's original as is a combo rat-bat-spider-crab monster that's out to eliminate our space heroes. Sidney W. Pink, a pioneer of 3-D films, may have borrowed a few ideas from Roger Corman and his imaginative catalogue of monsters. It sure fits. Pink said he actually wrote the script on his kitchen table and got some wild suggestions from his kids! Ib Melchior also served as co-writer to tie it all together.
Big and tall Gerald Mohr stars as the mighty colonel who leads an expedition to Mars where trouble awaits, and of course the campy MONSTER. Definitely Pink's kids had to have come up with that idea. Not to miss the carnivorous plants either. It's about what you would expect for a space ship landing on another planet movie, and the effects and RED photography are very good, thanks to veteran Stanley Cortez. Cortez followed this with DINOSAURUS.
This was co-star Nora Hayden's best known film, playing Dr. Ryan. Hayden is fondly remembered for her screams and classic photos of her screaming. They turn up everywhere when this film is promoted. Also a well known supporting cast, including Les Tremayne as the professor and Jack Kruschen as Jacobs. J. Edward McKinley plays Professor Weiner, a familiar face on many classic sitcoms, like BEWITCHED.
Interestingly, Ib Melchior later wrote "Space Family Robinson" which may have inspired LOST IN SPACE, a story that had wide recognition and even was brought before the courts to give him screen credit. Melchior's next film would be REPTILICUS, which he wrote and Sidney Pink produced and directed.
10 stars for originality and lots of memories. Always on remastered dvd and thanks to Svengoolie for running this oldie on his tv show.
The Beverly Hillbillies: Sonny Drysdale Returns (1966)
WHY WE LOVE SONNY DRYSDALE.
I agree. Mr. Drysdale's super elite stepson, Sonny (played to the hilt by comedian Louis Nye), was one of the show's most famous characters. Nye played a very similar role (as Gordon Hathaway) on the STEVE ALLEN SHOW, which may have lead to this part. It makes sense because they were so alike.
Sonny, who has been going to college for 19 years! -- stops by to see his step mom and dad. Frustrated Mr. Drysdale confesses its high time Sonny get a job, so he gets him work as a door to door salesman in Beverly Hills?
Not too surprising he meets up with Ellie May.
This proves to be an interesting relationship, and funny as heck, all due to Louis Nye, a master of characters. Around this time, he had a hilarious role in GOOD NEIGHBOR SAM, starring Jack Lemmon.
Series writers Paul Henning and Mark Tuttle put together some memorable dialogue and one-liners. Sonny awkwardly proposing to Ellie is memorable.
Best of SEASON 4. EPISODE 21. Remastered dvd box set. 4 dvds. Released 2011. Catch the classic family cover with Jed and a pitchfork.