Credit Robert Leslie Bellem for writing this intriguing whodunit, one of the great tv writers for action heroes, such as DICK TRACY, SUPERMAN and CAPTAIN MIDNIGHT. Bellam had a terrific imagination, and could really churn out some interesting stories, case in point.
Hank Brandt plays a young gentleman recovering from one of those rich people's mystery illnesses in Mexico -- all the while his workaholic uncle Harry Scott (well played by crusty Tom Tully) maintains the family business in Los Angeles. But what happens when the old man is killed? The old fireplace poker across the head routine. Bellem probably threw that in from his comic book adventures, though the poker was used in other PM stories.
Question: I do agree with the last reviewer. How does the person who finds the body, get covered with blood? Stay tuned.
Perry Mason intrigue, and very well done with an exceptional cast. Barbara Bain plays Elayna and beautiful Lisa Gaye is cast as Pamela, obviously getting a lot of attention.
Of honorable mention is veteran actress Arline Judge, playing Emmalou, who has some good scenes in this one. Judge was popular in the 1930s and 40s in many films, once married to the famous director Wesley Ruggles. She made news headlines with her many marriages, but always a welcome face in movies and tv, and you can tell the crew dressed her up for this one. Reportedly, this was her last role, though she did do some tv commercial work.
Also look for old time actor Francis McDonald, playing a guy named Peg Leg? McDonald's career went back to the early days of Hollywood, usually in westerns, and at one time was married to the great Mae Busch, famous as Hardy's angry wife in the Laurel and Hardy comedies.
Some portions filmed at Bronson Canyon and Griffith Park, just outside Hollywood, fabulous places for mysterious settings.
One not to miss, especially for all the talent and the memories.
SEASON 8 episode 6 (1964) CBS remastered dvd box set.