This was the only episode written by George Slavin, a decorated WWII hero. Slavin wrote everything from dramas to westerns to comedies, and this is definitely one dark comedy.
All about an old gentleman named Mr. Weems who is the perfect choice for a group of businessmen who have invested in a cemetary. No one is buying... so they agree to pay Weems to insure he will be buried there when he finally does kick the bucket. They will have their FIRST official customer and more will follow. Ya think?
What happens when Weems lives a little bit longer???
Strangest thing about this tale. How many of us could relate to it, having relatives who claimed they hadn't long to live and outlived a whole lot of folks!
Best acting award goes to Robert Middleton as the frustrated chairman of the board. Russell Collins ain't bad either as rascally Mr. Weems. Best remembered for his appearance in BAD DAY AT BLACK ROCK, starring Spencer Tracy.
This one truly has earned the famous Hitchcock theme, the "Funeral March of a Marionette." You be the judge.
From SEASON 2 remastered Universal dvd box set. 2006.