If I'd write a very high-level plot summary and review for "Of late I think of Cliffordville", it would probably come across as a very mundane, derivative and unmemorable episode. And perhaps it is exactly that, but there are four notable reasons why I personally think this is one of the most fun installments in the entire series of "The Twilight Zone".
The dull version: ageing and ruthless business tycoon Feathersmith seals a pact with the devil to be sent back in time to his hometown Cliffordville, as his own 30-year-old self in 1910. Not because he wants to start over and live a better life, mind you, but to re-experience the adrenalin kicks of crushing his business rivals and opponents. Unfortunately, for Feathersmith at least, he didn't pay close enough attention to the details of the contract. And now for the four highlights:
#1: the exaggeratedly OTT ageing-effects! The lead stars (Albert Salmi, John Anderson, Wright King) have their correct age in 1910, as they are around 30-35, but in 1963 they must wear tons of thick make-up and fake wrinkles. It's a hilarious sight.
#2: the no-nonsense deal-making with the devil! So many films and TV-shows recycle the ancient "Faust"-theme, and yet, it's always handled so secretive and the protagonists are practically always surprised when they discover when Satan reveals his identity. At least here, Feathersmith is very much aware who he's negotiating with. Well yes, the horns on her forehead are a dead giveaway, but still. Feathersmith even pro-actively offers his soul. The devil's answer is even better, though: "your soul isn't worth anything given the life you have lived".
#3: speaking of the devil! Cult-siren Julie Newmar is, beyond any doubts, the best Beelzebub ever! With looks, charisma and persuasion like hers, literally everyone is willing to go to hell.
#4: the mouth-slurping! According to a fellow reviewer, Albert Salmi's constant mouth-slurping noises make the episode intolerable to watch. I can relate to him/her, but you could also turn it around and make it a positive thing, like maybe a variant of the famous beer pong? Every time Salmi slurps, you must slurp up a shot of Tequila!
The dull version: ageing and ruthless business tycoon Feathersmith seals a pact with the devil to be sent back in time to his hometown Cliffordville, as his own 30-year-old self in 1910. Not because he wants to start over and live a better life, mind you, but to re-experience the adrenalin kicks of crushing his business rivals and opponents. Unfortunately, for Feathersmith at least, he didn't pay close enough attention to the details of the contract. And now for the four highlights:
#1: the exaggeratedly OTT ageing-effects! The lead stars (Albert Salmi, John Anderson, Wright King) have their correct age in 1910, as they are around 30-35, but in 1963 they must wear tons of thick make-up and fake wrinkles. It's a hilarious sight.
#2: the no-nonsense deal-making with the devil! So many films and TV-shows recycle the ancient "Faust"-theme, and yet, it's always handled so secretive and the protagonists are practically always surprised when they discover when Satan reveals his identity. At least here, Feathersmith is very much aware who he's negotiating with. Well yes, the horns on her forehead are a dead giveaway, but still. Feathersmith even pro-actively offers his soul. The devil's answer is even better, though: "your soul isn't worth anything given the life you have lived".
#3: speaking of the devil! Cult-siren Julie Newmar is, beyond any doubts, the best Beelzebub ever! With looks, charisma and persuasion like hers, literally everyone is willing to go to hell.
#4: the mouth-slurping! According to a fellow reviewer, Albert Salmi's constant mouth-slurping noises make the episode intolerable to watch. I can relate to him/her, but you could also turn it around and make it a positive thing, like maybe a variant of the famous beer pong? Every time Salmi slurps, you must slurp up a shot of Tequila!