This is one of two excellent TZ "inanimate objects that control us" plots (stopwatches, cameras, used cars, etc). A marvelous set of six vignettes, with each character's true personality revealed by a different tune played on a mechanical piano. Wonderfully imaginative direction by David Greene with more tight close-ups than any other TV episode in history, and remarkably subtle performances by Barry Morse (a rarity!) and the lovely, understated Joan Hackett. The three "odd-ball" characters are the true highlights of the show with Phil Coolidge, Muriel Landers and an all-star, tour-de-force knockout romp by the cadaverous Cyril Delevanti dominating the proceedings. A great "chamber-morality" play,expertly rendered. (The only tiny blemish is that lame,dufus party-goer who waves the present in his hand as he enters the room; I hope he was fired).
Review of A Piano in the House
