Past reviewers do not seem to like this episode, but I enjoyed it for the acting, and with two distinguished actresses. Lilia Skala, who had been recently nominated for an Oscar for her role as Mother Superior in LILLIES OF THE FIELD, is spot on as the suspicious nanny (named Frieda) for a baby, belonging to the father she used to take care of years ago.
What could go wrong? That's the Hitchcock question... and as a story surfaces about a homicidal nanny, fitting her description, who poisoned another baby. OMG. Actually, this is a time worn story, re-hashed in both movies and tv shows for decades, but it's still worth a look.
And if Hitch liked it, it can't be all that bad.
Skala is very good in this type of role, and is the whole show as you really begin to wonder about her. Without giving too much away, there are two sides to a story. Alas, there are some other interesting characters who pass through the old homestead. Applause for popular actress Oliver Deering, as Christine, the prim and proper guest.
Deering was a favorite of Cecil B. DeMille, appearing in two of his classic films, including the TEN COMMANDMENTS. Deering was the sister of dramatic actor Alfred Ryder.
Also look for veteran actress Doris Lloyd as the maid, whose career dated back to silent films. The face you know, but don't recall her name. Frances Reid plays the snooty grandmother, who actually became a staple in daytime soap operas.
To note, Lilia Skala began her career as a distinguished architect, fleeing Nazi Germany and eventually becoming a stage actress. Her Oscar nomination lead to many other prime movie roles for many years. Soon after this episode came THE NANNY, starring legendary Bette Davis. Pick your poison!
SEASON 3 EPISODE 16 CBS dvd box set.