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Way Out West (1937)
BUSHWOOD GULCH -- 2 MILES!
Having grown up with Laurel and Hardy in tv reruns, WAY OUT WEST gets my vote for one of their very best films, likely tied with SONS OF THE DESERT for the Number One spot. It's wild stuff.
Veteran comedy director James W. Horne just let the cameras roll and let the boys do their schtick. That was the secret to the team's success, and in later years mentioned in several bios. It wasn't uncommon for Stan and Ollie to write new and improved material during filming, even if it meant changing a scene or parts of the entire production.
There is a slim story here though, all about the boys personally delivering the deed of a gold mine to a poor young lady called Mary Roberts, played by Rosina Lawrence, best known as the school teacher for the Our Gang/Little Rascals kids. It's kind of like a Cinderella tale of sorts. Mary is basically the used and abused scrubwoman for Mickey Finn (James Finlayson) who owns a hotel and has a very pretty and equally greedy girlfriend called Lola, played by Sharon Lynne. It would have been a riot had Mae Busch played this role, though her contract with the studio apparently ended the previous year.
What follows is a camp classic of escapades; Finn and Lola both trying to steal the deed for themselves. Finlayson is a hoot as always, his expressions are priceless. Sharon Lynne, who retired early in her career, is also quite good, especially in a WILD scene where she has to literally go through Stan's clothes (while he's wearing them!) trying to get the deed out of his pockets. This scene, by far, is a certified classic, Stan bring tickled and hysterically laughing, and for a long period of time. It shows you what a genuinely talented comedian Stan Laurel was, and yes -- you can catch Sharon Lynn laughing herself. She couldn't help it and James Horne left it in the final print!
The boys get to sing in this one, and they do a fine job. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Music Score, and deserved it.
Familiar supporting cast with rough guy Stanley Fields as the sheriff and Vivienne Oakland as his wife, best known for playing Edgar Kennedy's wife in his movie comedy series.
The middle of the night rescue of Mary (and finally giving her the deed) is outrageous; including a goofy special effect scene where Stan pulls Ollie's "stuck" head through a trap door, stretching his neck. Another wacky scene finds the boys hiding in a piano and Finlayson playing, the keys bouncing off their noses inside. They also include a break-away furniture bit, famous in many of their short films, the boys gutting the piano as they fall through the bottom.
Beautifully filmed, only it's a shame it was not photographed in color. Later remastered in color in the 80s for tv prints.
Laurel and Hardy starred in OUR RELATIONS prior to this film, and followed it with PICK A STAR (1937), also with Rosina Lawrence and James Finlayson.
Thanks again to METV Plus for showing this film great morning, noon and night for years!
Always and forever on dvd and remastered blu ray for the next generation of fans.
The Beverly Hillbillies: Hoe Down A-Go-Go (1965)
THE FAMOUS ROCK 'N ROLL PARTY.
Real cool stuff, especially if you're a 60s music fan of fans. The story is simple and fun.
Jed and Granny want Ellie and Jethro to meet some new friends. What better thing to do but throw an old fashioned barn dance (in the mansion)? Mr. Drysdale and Miss Jane naturally want to lend a helping hand, especially Miss Jane who has a little crush on Jethro, as always. So what happens?
Miss Jane takes Jethro into Hollywood, specifically the legendary Whisky A Go Go to check out some rock bands. What a treat. They hook up with a group called the ENEMIES, which was a real band (from New York), actually appearing at all the clubs in LA at the time and making a name for themselves.
The Enemies crash the Clampetts mansion in style, but it's NO barn dance. It's a super 60s dance party. Catch all the hay and pumpkins in the background as everybody has a good ole time. A top episode, and you only wish it went a bit longer because it's a gas.
Listen for Roy Orbison's hit, "Pretty Woman" sung at the Whisky. Everybody must have had so much fun making this episode. It shows.
FYI: The Enemies appeared in some movies and tv shows before disbanding a few years later. Singer Cory Wells (who appears in this episode) soon after became one of the founders of THREE DOG NIGHT --and the rest is history.
A must see for the music, and why the show was a BIG hit at the time. Brings back lots of memories, and even better in color. The series switching to COLOR was the best decision the producers ever made.
SEASON 4 EPISODE 11 remastered CBS dvd box set. 4 dvds. Released 2014. Get the set for this memorable episode.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Money (1960)
SHOW ME THE MONEY, HONEY!
I agree with the last reviewer, this episode has shades of THE UNTOUCHABLES. But it's pretty good. Also, if you're a movie buff, it's a slight take-off on the famous noir film, DETOUR. All about greed and money, and lots of it.
Robert Loggia plays a guy named Larry who needs cash and has a gal friend (Doris Dowling) who wants the Good Life. Yes, indeed. Lucky Larry goes to work for a friend of the family, Mr. Bregornick, well played by Will Kuluva --who happens to have underworld ties. He hopes the old man will set him up with a good paying job, but it doesn't quite work that way.
Comes the question; should Larry rob him?
Wait and see how the walls come tumbling down.
At least 9 Stars for a fine performance by Robert Loggia, who could tackle any type of role. He's the one to watch sweat it out. Doris Dowling is quite good, playing a noir-ish type girlfriend, veteran of many classic films. Applause for Will Kiluva, popular on shows like MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, best in international roles, although he was born in Kansas City!
One of Hitch's regular directors, Alan Crosland, Jr., does a great job with the three actors, in the tradition of his famous father. Crosland was a staple in tv for decades.
Worth watching for the acting. SEASON 6 EPISODE 9 remastered Universal dvd box set. 5 dvd set. Collectors box.
The Flintstones: The Hypnotist (1961)
THE FAMOUS HYPNOTIST STORY.
One of the classic early episodes, and I agree with the last reviewer, it's the voice talent in this story that makes it so memorable. All us kids loved this stuff.
It's another battle between the husbands and wives over a tv show, though Wilma and Betty win out, catching the Great Mesmo, master of hypnotism.
Fred takes a cue from the guy's uncanny performance and tries hypnosis himself --and Barney is the victim.
Poor Barney becomes a dog, barking and snarling and acting nuts. Mel Blanc is terrific doing the dog bit, something he was famous for on radio, long before he got into cartoons. A master of so many voices and characterizations, even animals. To note, second to Mel Blanc is Howard McNear (from the ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW), playing the kooky vet. He is so funny. Character actor Jerry Mann plays Mesmo.
Laugh out loud voices that made this show a riot.
This classic episode "may" have inspired the famous DICK VAN DYKE episode (a few years later) where Rob accidentally hears the voice of a hypnotist and becomes a drunk.
Best of SEASON 1 EPISODE 20. Remastered Hanna Barberra dvd box set. 4 dvds. Released 2006, re-released 2012.
77 Sunset Strip: The Toy Jungle (1963)
WHAT'S HER STORY?
True, this episode has that old school feeling from the original series. Exceptionally directed by Lawrence Dobkin, one of the best in the biz. You have to admit, it rolls.
The story is rather familiar, but what a terrific cast of popular actors. Stu is hired to find the truth about a man's wife who apparently has a secret life. Bottom line, is she connected to an illegal drug operation?
The fists fly, particularly during the second half, just like the old days. Dobkin stages some rough scenes, and with lots of broken furniture. Yes, Stu gets bounced around, reminding you a bit of MANNIX. In fact, it's safe to assume Stu's later adventures (such as this episode) may have inspired Joe Mannix in just a few years.
Popular actress Pat Crowley guest stars, playing Doris Devlin, the lady in question. Russell Johnson, a familar actor at Warner Brothers tv, plays her husband, Harry. There's a terrific supporting cast with comedian Henry Gibson (as Eddie), prior to LAUGH IN fame. Cliff Osmond plays Sam, and in a very good role. Cliff was discovered by director Billy Wilder and had some prime roles in his movies.
To note, actress Joan Staley joins the series as Hannah, the lady who Stu dictates all his case notes to in film noir fashion. She's the one.
Recommended for series fans. SEASON 6 EPISODE 11 remastered. Thanks much to METV for running this classic show on Sunday nights.
Mission: Impossible: The Elixir (1968)
THE MAKEOVER CAPER.
10 stars for the talent.
A fascinating episode, the main character, "partly" based on Argentina's Evita Peron, though they really got creative with this one as you will see.
All about a coup, headed by the widow (well played by Ruth Roman) of a dictator. Roman plays Riva Santel, who has big plans to take over the small country of San Cordova, thus stopping free elections. Also a change of pace, this time minus a Russian or Russian sympathizer.
The clever part of the story is the introduction of a youth serum, which intrigues Riva. As much as she wants power, she wants to be young again. Enter crafty Cinnamon (and you have to love this), playing a woman who is supposed be 50 years older than she really looks. Amazing. Barbara Bain now gets to shine in a make-over, a role usually given to Martin Landau.
Credit the artistic makeup application to Robert Dawn, who was makeup supervisor for 143 episodes. Robert gained notoriety in Hollywood, the master behind the weird makeup in Alfred Hitchcock's PSYCHO.
Ruth Roman is terrific in this role, and not surprising, leading lady in films since the 1940s. Watch a great actress at work. Extremely well written by Max Hodge, who may have borrowed the makeup slant from episodes he wrote for BATMAN. Makeup on that show was a given, especially with all the villain disguises.
SEASON 3 EPISODE 7 remastered color CBS/Paramount. 7 dvds. Released 2007.
Gilligan's Island: A Nose by Any Other Name (1965)
MY NOSE IS BROKEN!
Good writing on the part of Elroy Schwartz, who did many sitcoms, including MY THREE SONS and the BRADY BUNCH. Also a really goofy send-off as the first season concludes.
The story is short and sweet. Gilligan falls out of a cocoanut tree and lands on his nose! The result is one SWOLLEN NOSE for Gilligan (note the heavy makeup on Bob Denver's face), and the question -- will he get better or have to live with a crooked nose?
The dialogue is peppered with some classic one liners. The professor begins teaching first aid and asks the crew what they would do first if someone got injured. Ginger appropriately replies, "Give them mouth to mouth resuscitation."
Most outrageous scene is Gilligan's head being covered in a ball of plaster?, and walking around the island. There's also a table layed out with fake molded noses of famous people? Has to be the MOST creative props ever for the first season. Gilligan chooses the "distinguished nose" of Richard Burton. Let the operation begin, but you could probably guess what really happens.
Surpise ending as someone else -- we won't tell-- gets smacked on the nose. Stay tuned.
SEASON 1 EPISODE 36 remastered in both black and white and color.
The Beverly Hillbillies: The Matador (1967)
EL MAGNIFICO MEETS EL JETHRO?
Why we love Jethro!
Max Baer played one memorable tv character to the max, and this episode is a prime example. Jethro now believes the key to meeting girls is to do something daring -- like being a matador. Enter El Magnifco (played be Muguel Landa), a real deal bull fighter who will TEACH Jethro on how to challenge a bull? Unbelievable.
This story has some of the best dialogue and exchanges between Jethro, Granny and Uncle Jed. And did Max Baer actually crash through the kitchen door? It sure looked like him. Without too much surprise, El Magnifico also falls for Ellie May. But there's one catch, El Magnifico is NOT supposed to be mean to the bull!
Popular character actor Milton Frome, usually playing over the top villains, plays Mr. Chapman. Miguel Landa played many Spanish and French characters in both sitcoms and cop shows for many years.
Best scene award goes to Miss Jane, posing as a bull and charging after Jethro. Watch some of the vintage bullfight scenes, probably lifted from an old color movie. Insane stuff, thanks to good writing from series writer Paul Henning.
SEASON 5 EPISODE 23 remastered color. Catch the classic color family portrait box cover.
The Twilight Zone: Nightmare as a Child (1960)
THE ONE WITH THE STRANGE, LITTLE GIRL.
Fantastic psychological tale, if not psych-out story by Rod Serling, a must see if you haven't seen all the TZ episodes, especially from the first season.
Popular actress Janice Rule plays a young woman called Helen Foley who meets a little girl (played by Terry Burnham) sitting outside her apartment one cloudy day... You know there's something strange to all this, especially the way Markie (Burnham) seems to know a lot about her, yet Helen has never seen her before.
Enter a gentleman named Seldon (Shepherd Strudwick) who is also very interested in Helen, and this is where the story will give you the creeps.
A one of a kind mystery on steroids, and defintely a story you won't forget too soon. Rod Serling had that in mind with lots of his material, but this one hits the bullseye. Long time stage and film actor Sheppard Strudwick is terrific in this role, perhaps one of his best tv roles. He later switched to soap operas and was a regular on ONE LIFE TO LIVE.
The thing about this episode is the curious story concerning young Terry Burnham. It has come up many times. Due to her popularity for this single episode (although she guested in many tv shows), TZ Fans tried to track her down in later years, but she disappeared from Hollywood, living a very reclusive life. When she passed in 2013, many of her personal belongings actually became collectors items, as she had no family. She was eventually buried beside her mother, who had passed years before her. Incidentally, the second little girl in this episode is played by young Morgan Brittany, best known for DALLAS as an adult.
A prime example of excellent direction, credit much to Alvin Ganzer, who directed four episodes for the show. Ganzer later headed lots of super episodes for ROUTE 66.
If you're a tv buff, this has the feel of the classic Alfred Hitchcock episode about the murderer who believes a baby witnessed his crime. You be the judge. It would be neat to run both these episodes back to back.
Recommended viewing, especially late night where it belongs. SEASON 1 EPISODE 29 the definitive dvd box set. 6 dvds. Released 2013.
The Brady Bunch: The Big Sprain (1970)
THE FAMOUS SPRAINED ANKLE EPISODE.
I think some of the best episodes, and more poignant, revolved around Alice. Carol is away, helping her sick aunt, Alice now has double the work to do, accidentally trips and sprains her ankle.
What a mess. The fun part is watching the kids pitch in and help around the house --and obviously they've NEVER done anything like this before. Mike is also in an awkward position and everything goes haywire. The sad part is Alice being stuck in bed --doctors orders to stay off her ankle --who will miss a special night with Sam at the Meatcutters Ball.
The name of that get-together has always fascinated me through the years, credit creative comedy writing 101. For all us tv buffs, we get a glimpse of Alice's bedroom off the kitchen, which was very similar to Uncle Charley's room on MY THREE SONS, if you remember.
You know things will eventually work out, but it's still fun to watch the gang in a big mess. Good direction by Russ Mayberry, who directed many episodes for THAT GIRL. Best known for MAGNUM PI.
SEASON 1 EPISODE 19 remastered color. 4 dvd box set ABC/Paramount released 2005.
Blondie's Holiday (1947)
DAGWOOD PLAYS THE PONIES!
Very true, there is no holiday here, only more dumb luck for Dagwood, who is the whole show --or rather, Arthur Lake.
This was the final story written by Connie Lee, who had been with the series about five years. It has a very clever twist, which saves the day for Dagwood.
That said, Dagwood easily gets into trouble in just a few minutes. The story is all about a big high school reunion -- which Dagwood gets stuck to pay for. He gets a raise, gets fired by Mr. Radcliffe and caught up with some backroom horse racing gamblers. And Arthur Lake's stunned expressions are priceless.
The racing angle is a funny change of pace. Dagwood reads some material on how to pick winners at the race track and he's hooked. He also has an angel on his shoulder, a little old lady better (played by veteran actress Mary Young), who just happens to be the wife of Mr. Radcliffe's new client, Mr. Breckenbridge, played so well by distinguished Grant Mitchell. In short, Mrs. Breckenbridge saves Dagwood BIG time.
A popular supporting cast; Anne Nagel plays Bea and Jody Gilbert as Cynthia, two of the high school renunion alum. Tim Ryan appears as Mike, best known for writing and appearing in many of the BOWERY BOYS films.
Yes, Daisy is not in this episode because she was appearing in another film at the time. Puppy Elmer takes her place, who is growing up fast. Daisy, actually known as Spooks (because she was always scared as a puppy), was part cockerspaniel, poodle and terrier, raised by famous dog trainer Rennie Renfro. Renfro had a large kennel and ranch in Van Nuys, CA, where Daisy lived and worked in films into the early 1950s.
10 Stars for goofy Dagwood who crosses the finish line. Remastered episode on dvd, also in box sets which include the entire series. Thanks much to MOVIES Net for running these great episodes on Saturday mornings.
Niagara (1953)
A LITTLE TIME TO KILL AT NIAGARA.
I agree with everyone else, Marilyn Monroe is beautiful here, albeit with a slight problem. Director Henry Hathaway handles this film noir exceptionally well, but yes, you do wonder how Hitchcock would have handled the production, especially since his name comes up so many times.
Technicolor captures Monroe's true beauty, and a revealing other side. She plays Rose, a young woman saddled with a husband (Joseph Cotten), beset with mental problems, the psychological effects of war. The couple's fading relationship does not improve while vacationing at Niagara Falls -- and comes the plan to murder him. Rose naturally finds herself a new boyfriend (played by Robert Allan), willing to carry out the nefarious deed. But what happens next... hence the Hitchcock connection.
Very true, had this film's running time been condensed, it could have doubled as an episode of Hitch's iconic tv show, as there were several stories similar to this, only in classic black and white.
Cotten is memorable in a sinister role, although according to Hathaway, he perferred James Mason for the lead. The story goes that Mason was planning to take the part, however it was his daughter who changed his mind, claiming she just didn't like it. She may have had a point, without giving too much away, it had its surprises as you will see.
An excellent supporting cast keeps this thriller on its toes; Jean Peters (who would next co-star in THREE COINS IN THE FOUNTAIN), in stark contrast, plays a happily married woman, also vacationing at Niagara with her husband, portrayed by Max Showalter, later known as Casey Adams. This was the only major film role for handsome young actor Richard Allan (as Patrick), who catches Marilyn's eye, or is it vice versa? Monroe actually recommended Allan, which was a big boost for his career.
Some dynamic shots (and sounds) of the Great Niagara, which only enhance the tension. Surprise guest star, none other than Don Wilson, long time announcer for Jack Benny's radio and tv show, playing a "senior" vacationer, along with his wife (Lurene Tuttle). Don has a couple of fun lines.
Henry Hathaway does a commendable job with the adventurous runaway boat ending, even though it was obviously filmed on a sound stage with LOTS of water. True, lovely Jean Peters does have more screen time than Marilyn Monroe, but worth every minute.
Monroe would next star in GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES. Cotten in A BLUEPRINT FOR MURDER.
Long running time at 89 minutes, restored on dvd and blu ray for all us Monroe fans. Thank you so much to MOVIES Net for running this golden oldie, especially during their Noir segments.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents: The Five-Forty-Eight (1960)
A RATHER CAPTIVE AUDIENCE.
Sooner or later, Hollywood's most classic villian, Zachary Scott, had to make an appearance on Hitch's tv show. It was a must. Scott, naturally, plays his most memorable role, that of a cad who apparently had a one night stand with his secretary, Miss Dent (exceptionally played by Phyllis Thaxter).
This is actually a duel between two unforgettable actors, based on a story by Pulitzer Prize winning author John Cheever. Surprisingly, it was written for tv by Charlotte Armstrong, a rival to Agatha Christie, author of 29 mystery novels.
Bottom line, Miss Dent corners Mr. Blake (Scott) on a train -- and with a gun -- and wants to tell him exactly what she thinks of him during the excruciating LONG ride home. What an ordeal, and one heck of a character study, that of a bitter, lonely woman confronting the man of her nightmares.
A must see. Excellent direction, as always, by John Brahm. There's the debate as to who appeared more on Hitch's tv show, Phyllis Thaxter or Raymond Bailey (from the BEVERLY HILLBILLIES), who also guests in this episode. Thaxter co-starred in a total of six episodes, Bailey in ten. Good trvia question for buffs.
Best of SEASON 6 EPISODE 5. Remastered dvd box set. 5 dvds. Released 2013.
Secrets of the French Police (1932)
THE LOST PRINCESS MYSTERY.
A combination of mystery and chills, well directed by A. Edward Sutherland, who specialized in both comedy (WC Fields) and adventures. He was the right person to head this film, even adding a slice of dark comedy to the proceedings.
Beautiful Gwili Andre, who very much resembled Marlene Dietrich, promoted to be the next Greta Garbo, plays a poor flower girl along the streets of Paris, who MAY be the lost Princess Anastasia, believed killed during the Revolution.
But... her body was never found!
Enter Parisian master detective and chain smoker Frank Morgan to investigate the baffling case. I agree with the last reviewer, Morgan shows off some shades of his famous Wizard character, soon to make him a star. On other side is dramatic actor Gregory Ratoff, playing the crafty general, drawn to the millions of dollars Andre may inherit. Money the root of all evil!
Eddie Sutherland is creative with this high drama slash adventure, gradually changing gears to a horror film, somewhat in the tradition of MYSTERY OF THE WAX MUSEUM. The mad doctor (in his secret lab) wishing to cover women with a plaster substance to become statues?, replete with some brief frontal nudity, obviously a pre-code production hard at work.
Early film appearance of pretty Rochelle Hudson, playing K-31 ( a character name reminiscent of Marlene Dietrich's DISHONORED), also young John Warburton, as Leon.
Not to disappoint mystery buffs and thrill seekers alike, to be sure. A short film, under 60 minutes, but very entertaining and a showcase for Gwili Andre, who at the time was a top fashion model.
Released on dvd and a very good print. Thanks to TCM for occasionally showing this diamond in the rough.
Leave It to Beaver: The Cookie Fund (1959)
NO MONEY, NO TRIP, NO NOTHING.
Another one of those wrong time, wrong place, wrong person episodes we all loved.
Beave and Larry are honorable chairmen of the class "Cookie Committee," in charge of the money from cookie sales which will be used to pay for a fun field trip. Now you know where this is going... The guys meet up with a sly kid called Roger (well played by Danny Richards, Jr), who claims his family is poor, he hasn't eaten in days and could sure use a few extra dollars. Do the hysterical math.
This famous episode has shades of the "new bike" episode where Beave let's a strange kid ride his bike and never sees him or the bike again. Of course, had Beave and Larry never had the money in the first place, this kid would have never crossed paths. An all too common slice of life tale which seems to pop up in the series from time to time.
Producers and writers Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher also peppered this with some fun dialogue, especially between Wally and Beaver, the two brothers trying to analyze this dilemma. And what a dilemma.
By the way, Danny Richards, Jr was a popular child actor at the time, appearing in dozens of tv shows. His father was a well known Big Band singer.
Best of Season 2 Episode 35 remastered. Check out the classic color cover of the dvd box set.
Rear Window (1954)
YOU CAN CHOOSE YOUR FRIENDS, NOT YOUR NEIGHBORS.
If only they had tie winners for Oscars, Alfred Hitchcock would have won (and most certainly deserved to win) the award for Best Director. Even critics have argued this was his best film of the decade, and that's saying a lot considering all his other masterpieces. Alas, Hitch lost the award to George Seaton (THE COUNTRY GIRL).
Some of the best screenplays are simple stories. This is a prime example. Newspaper photographer James Stewart breaks his leg, passes the time sitting home watching his neighbors -- and witnesses a murder.
Amazing. The difference is Hitch takes it to the next level and has some fun with it, in a dark comedy way naturally. Stewart is perfectly cast as our hero, attempting to solve the case himself, nearly getting himself killed. Grace Kelly compliments him as his wary girlfriend, and toss in Thelma Ritter as Stewart's philosphical nurse. Ritter is a hoot, with the best lines, and could have doubled as Stewart's mother!
Warning; beware of tall, dark and deadly Raymond Burr, just a few years before fame as PERRY MASON, which would completely take him away from villainous roles for the rest of his career.
Production notes indicate this was largely filmed at one of Paramount's biggest sound stages, thus the setting for the famous courtyard sequence, and an intricate drainage system added to handle the pouring rain. The behind the scenes crew deserved special credit for creating a masterpiece setting, even by today's standards.
Based on a story by suspense writer Cornell Woolrich, who created the WHISTLER mystery series, also known for THE WINDOW (1949). Franz Waxman did the music score. Edgar Allan Poe Award for Best Screenplay. Oscar nominations also for Best Screenplay and Best Sound. Long running, and worth every second at 112 minutes.
Hitch followed this with TO CATCH A THIEF, also starring Grace Kelly, where she met her future husband, Prince Ranier.
Always on dvd and remastered blu ray for generations to come. Many thanks to TCM for running this movie great since the beginning.
Barnaby Jones: The Loose Connection (1973)
DANGEROUS CROSSING FOR BARNABY.
Shades of a MISSION IMPOSSIBLE fake-out in this excellent adventure, and written by one of the show's writers, Edward J. Lakso. You can see it coming, right off the bat.
Poor Barnaby is used Big Time, hired by a woman named Eleanor (well played by Christine Belford), who wants him to find her father in Mexico. The real deal is to smuggle heroin. So how do they do it? The drug kings secure the heroin (and very cleverly) in his car, and who would suspect Barnaby Jones of being a drug dealer. Definite shades of MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, where many stories involved smuggling, especially in vehicles.
Barnaby truly finds himself in a tight spot, a rare incident, and with some very interesting characters.
Super cast lead by smooth bad guy Lloyd Bochner as a drug buyer, also Nico Minardos as a drug lord. Terrific casting. Also look for popular character actor Richard X. Slattery (as Eddie) and dramatic actor Michael Blodgett (as Kirk).
An original story you can't miss, and with a change of scenery (backlot and the High Desert). Top direction by Virgil W. Vogel, best known for the FBI for years, also STREETS OF SAN FRANCISCO.
To add to the last reviewers comment about Barnaby's big Ford LTD. Producer Quinn Martin had a long term contract with Ford, going back to his years with the FUGITIVE in the 60s. So all their latest models were in his shows. Probably the best example was the FBI; Efrem Zimbalist Jr. Drove many sporty Mustangs and T-birds season after season. Not to forget Cannon's famous silver Lincoln. Barnaby had his beautiful brown Ford LTD, but according to notes, a second Sport model was also used in this episode.
Best of SEASON 1 EPISODE 6. Remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set. First box set (according to Amazon) with 4 dvds released 2010. Second set released 2016, not doubt when METV began running the series.
Pit and the Pendulum (1961)
PIT, PENDULUM AND THE IRON MAIDEN.
This was the second Poe chiller director Roger Corman produced, and obviously having a lot of macabre fun with the material. The initial success of the HOUSE OF USHER, insured Vincent Price's return, and in another camp performance. In fact, his character borrows from Bela Lugosi's Dr. Vollin in the 1935 horror classic, THE RAVEN. Passwords; "torture and death."
Dramatic actor John Kerr, later to be cast in tv's PEYTON PLACE, plays Francis Barnard searching for the truth about his missing sister, Elizabeth. Beautiful Barbara Steele (who would make a career out of horror films), plays Elizabeth, married to Nicholas Medina (Price), and in typical Poe fashion, comes from a family of lunatics. Price is the whole show here.
Yes, if you are a horror fan, this is your cup of tea, also thanks to author Richard Matheson.
The WILD on steroids ending is worth the price of admission, inspiring a new generation of chillers to come from many other film and tv producers. Make no mistake though, Corman did this with class. Even acclaimed composer Les Baxter did the score.
Luana Anders (from DEMENTIA 13) co-stars as Catherine and Antony Carbone plays Dr. Leon.
The remastered color is great, Corman taking a cue from all the classic British horror films also done in blood red technicolor. Long running time at 85 minutes. Corman's next speciality of the house would be THE PREMATURE BURIAL, starring Ray Milland and written by TWILIGHT ZONE co-scripter Charles Beaumont.
Always on dvd and blu ray and thanks so much to Svengoolie for featuring this Vincent Price gem on his tv show.
77 Sunset Strip: By His Own Verdict (1963)
STU, THE LAWYER AND ONE DESPERATE CLIENT.
I agree with the last reviewer, Efrem Zimbalist steered the series exceptionally well (minus the regular cast) and made the most of his role. This episode may be the perfect example.
Toss in some shades of PERRY MASON, Joseph Cotten guest stars as retiring lawyer Arnold Buhler whose distinguished career may be ruined due to his very last client. Nick Adams plays Max Dent, who Buhler successfully proves to be not guilty of murder -- until Dent admits he IS guilty when the case is over. There's also the possibility Dent may be just getting back at the system, because he hates lawyers. He hates the world.
Buhler hires Stu to check out Dent's wild claims and its one heck of a chase. Cotten is very good in this role, the great actor he is, but credit is also due young Nick Adams who plays his desperate role to the hilt. Excellent direction by veteran Lawrence Dobkin, and some striking on location scenes at what looks to be the famous Sepulveda Dam in Van Nuys, the final showdown between Buhler, Dent and Stu.
Outstanding writing on the part of Franklin Barton, later co-producer for HAWAII FIVE O, who adds a touch of noir with Stu's closing comments into a tape recorder. Very good supporting cast featuring Barbara Bain as Rachel, veterans Russell Thorsen, Karl Swenson and Ben Wright as a doctor. In a gag voice-over, series co-producer and director William Conrad could be heard as the baseball play by play announcer. His style very much like Dodgers announcer Vin Scully. In fact, at first, you think it is Scully.
10 star episode not to be missed, especially for fans of Joseph Cotten. Shortly after this episode, he would begin filming HUSH, HUSH SWEET CHARLOTTE opposite Bette Davis. SEASON 6 remastered. Thanks to METV for running this terrific series on Sunday nights.
Hawaiian Eye: The Comics (1961)
THE SHOW MUST GO ON!
Good role for Joe Flynn, playing famous stand-up comedian Bunny White, who runs an variety show which finally reaches Hawaii. He hires on a singer --with a past -- named Iris (played by noneother than Marie Windsor), who is nothing but trouble.
His wife Joan (Mary Tyler Moore) has her doubts, and she's right. Iris has a crafty boyfriend, invites Bunny to her apartment one night, a fight breaks out and the guy is accidentally killed -- or is he?
A familiar story, but well done and fun to watch both Joe Flynn and Mary Tyler Moore in early dramatic roles in their careers.
Stealing some of the spotlight, without too much surprise, is Marie Windsor, yet as another shady lady.
Marie has some of the best lines. Only debit is when Bunny leaves her alone with the dead body. She says she'll take care of everything, which should have been an obvious tip off to Bunny.
Couple of interesting footnotes; Tom auditions for Bunny and sings "I want You Pretty Baby." Actually, Robert Conrad cut a 45 rpm record and the song was on the disc. Also in a fight scene between Bunny and Iris' boyfriend (who returns from the dead!), Bunny picks up a brick and throws it at him. The brick is obviously cardboard. You can hear the cardboard sound when he grabs it.
Good support from veteran bad guy H. M. Wynant as Pete. Written by Sam Ross, who did seven episodes for the series. Directed by Andrew McCullough, who at the time was also directing DONNA REED.
SEASON 2 EPISODE 32 remastered. Finally on dvd, 28 dvd set, which contains the entire series. Thanks much to METV for running this great show along with 77 SUNSET STRIP on Sunday nights.
77 Sunset Strip: Don't Wait for Me (1963)
SO WHO SHOT THE RICH KID?
A very good story, thanks to Robert C. Dennis, one of Hitchcock's best writers for his tv show at the time.
Not so much cops and robbers this time, more poignant and dramatic, coupled with two excellent performances from the stars.
Stu is hired by wealthy Mrs. Patterson (played by Oscar winner Jo Van Fleet) to find out the real truth about her daughter's (Brenda Scott) shooting. Sharin was shot, lucky to be alive, and a poor kid (Gus Trikonis) is suspected, at least that's what Mrs. Patterson thinks. Stu digs deeper into the case, and comes the question Sharin may have shot herself. But why?
A neat little mystery, and extremely well acted by Van Fleet and young Brenda Scott, who has some memorable scenes. She is quite good. Trikonis (as Mario) later became a popular "Drive In" film director, best known for TAKE THIS JOB AND SHOVE IT, and married to Goldie Hawn.
Also in the cast are popular actors Philip Pine and Ken Lynch, both staples in cop shows for decades.
Abner Biberman, also known for the TWILIGHT ZONE, handled the cast well, Van Fleet always terrific. She plays a tough lady in this one, complicating matters for Stu.
SEASON 6 EPISODE 8 remastered. Thanks much to METV for running this classic series on Sunday nights with HAWAIIN EYE.
Mission: Impossible: The Cardinal (1968)
THE GREAT CARDINAL CAPER.
Ultimate bait and switch episode, well written by John T. Dugan, known for all those cops and robbers escapades on ADAM 12.
Dedicated to fans of this series because it's one heck of a challenge for the team. The mission is to save a European cardinal (played by Paul Stevens), kidnapped by no account General Zepke (in an over the top performance by Theodore Bikel). The cardinal's blessing is the saving grace for Zepke, if he expects to take over a country. Accordingly, Cardinal Souchek is kidnapped and replaced by a phony (also played by Stevens) which will insure Zepke's future. Fairly clever stuff.
The team has no choice but to put one over on the general, much in the same fashion as he's trying to fool the earnest citizens of the small country. Let the games begin. Barney and Willy have a lot of undercover work to do, the setting being a huge complex. Mount Saint Mary's College in Bel Air, California was once again used as a backdrop, noted for its magnificent architecture, and with a European slant. I agree with the last reviewer, if you look close enough in long shots, yes, you can see the Los Angeles smog!
Great costume and the famous rubbery makeup change by Rollin, as usual, playing a bishop. Guest star Barbara Babcock plays Major Maria Felder, a role that may have been inspired from her many appearances on HOGANS HEROES. The famous sitcom was a springboard for actors playing foreign agents. Babcock is best known for DR. QUINN.
Top direction by Sutton Roley, who headed five episodes, 16 episodes for MANNIX.
Watching the nasty general get his due is worth the wait. The shocked expression on his face is the whole show, and always what all us fans couldn't get enough of. Paul Stevens shines in his closing comments, bringing down the curtain on another thug. This episode did do away with the usual dark comedy ending; it would have been fitting to see Zepke taking a friendly, casual walk to the hangman's noose.
Best of SEASON 3 EPISODE 6 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set. 7 dvd set. Released 2008.
Gilligan's Island: My Fair Gilligan (1965)
FROM RAGS TO RICHES TO RAGS?
Future soap opera producer Joanna Lee wrote this episode, a funny take-off (at least the title) on MY FAIR LADY.
Gilligan saves Mrs. Howell from a falling rock and is ADOPTED by Mr. Howell. What do ya think about that? Gilligan is formally named Gilligan Thurston Howell the Fourth! What this also means is that Gilligan is "above" the castaways, so therefore can no longer work with them. He's in a class by himself, even lettting down his old time buddy, the Skipper.
This memorable episode comes with a dazzling dream sequence; Mr. And Mrs. Howell are all decked out as a king and queen, and with the outrageous attire, fussing over their new son, Gilligan?
It eventually gets to him, right? But what to do about it? The professor suggests a clever come-back, such as getting too BIG for his britches. EGO on steroids. Gilligan begins insulting everybody -- and a big, gooey pie (cooked up by Ginger) accidentally flies into Mr. Howell's face. The best scene ever.
The proverbial question, as always. How did Ginger make a pie (where did she get the whip cream topping?) and bake it in the first place? Poetic license 101.
A gotsa see, and with some super dialogue. Writer Joanna Lee was also famous for playing the alien girl in Ed Wood's PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE. Good trivia question.
SEASON 1 EPISODE 35 remastered black and white and color dvd box set. Collectors edition.
Gilligan's Island: Goodbye Old Paint (1965)
A LESSON IN ABSTRACT PAINTING?
This is a funny episode, and very imaginative. I agree with the last reviewer. If you dabble in painting, it's even more interesting when it comes to the world of abstract art, especially in the 60s.
Series writer David Harmon cleverly did the episode in reverse. Instead of some goofball landing on the island, eccentric, BIG MOUTH know it all artist (in hiding!) Alexandre Dubov -- a Russian, but NOT a spy -- has actually been living on the island in secret for 10 years!
He suddenly makes his appearance, and announces he's a famous painter who has been hiding out from his critics? By the way, he also has a transmitter, which can get the castaways back to civilization.
Master character actor Harold J. Stone is a must see in this role, proving his versatility on steroids. You love to hate this egotistical maniac. Between all the insults (and there's a LOT), the secret plan is to portray Gilligan as a competitive abstract painter, and a better one than Dubov. This way they could force him to leave the island and get a hold of his transmitter.
Will it work? You probably can guess the wacky ending if you haven't seen this one a hundred times, but it is so much fun to watch, especially for Harold J. Stone. One thing for certain, there are a select few artists (in real life) who take after Dubov. That's probably what David Harmon had in mind to begin with.
Another original by director Jack Arnold, who works his magic with the cast. SEASON 1 EPISODE 34 remastered color. Get the classic dvd box set, both in black and white and color versions.
The Beverly Hillbillies: The Clampett Curse (1967)
I'M GONNA' WRITE Y'ALL A CHECK!
Best of all the schemes to get Jed's millions.
Enter three "resourceful" college girls who have cooked up a phony baloney organization that caters to poor kids in need of a solid education. In short, they want money, and lots of it!
You have to admit, Jed was a very generous man, and when he hears the crusading ladies story, he writes 'em a check for all the money he has -- $68 million bucks! This has to be a first for the series, and almost like a fantasy episode because it's so bizarro.
First off, Jed announces to Mr. Drysdale he gave all his money away and is moving back to the country. Drysdale, in turn, attempts to hang himself in his office! Jed, Granny, Jethro and Ellie saddle up the
old truck and leave Beverly Hills! Really, really strange stuff.
They don't get that far though; the truck runs out of gas in a park (within the LA city limits), and the gang decides to makes themselves at home --- clear the land and plant corn?
One of the best written and most clever episodes of them all. Of course, you know ALL TOO WELL
Jed does get his millions back, but the way its done is kind of neat. And Mr. Drysdale plays a big part.
He and Miss Jane make a super team.
Great supporting cast with Sheila Kuehn (best remembered for playing Zelda on DOBIE GILLIS), and in a very similar role, the idealistic ring leader of the trio. Kuehn later gave up acting to work for the city of Los Angeles, but was always asked about her tv career first and foremost. Red haired, freckled face Bernadette Withers plays Lucy, popular on sitcoms in the 50s, and Toby Kaye plays Fran.
SEASON 5 EPISODE 19 remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Super color family portrait on the cover. A classic.