I attended a Jewish Parochial school in my youth. This learning institution tried their best to teach us about the dietary laws handed down from generation to generation. An indoctrination of what you could eat abiding by the laws of Kashruth. For those who are not familiar with that term a simple definition is Jewish laws concerning the suitability of food. Simply the observance of eating only kosher foods. It didn't take long before I strayed and entered Young's Tea garden Chinese restaurant for some Pork Ribs. In 1960 National Broadcasting Company ran a competitive TV series called "Thriller". Hosted by the deep throated distinguished actor of mostly Horror movies, Boris Karloff. In this episode, The remarkable Mrs Hawks, the series crosses over to horror and black magic. Jo Van Fleet plays a high shrilled slightly aged owner/ femshep of blue ribbon hogs. She runs a farm and seems to attract vagrants and the neighboring railroad hobo's as farm hands. There is no shortage of pigs on this farm. The help checks in to work on two feet and leave on four hooves. One such well read vagrant, a Mr. Longfellow played by the colorful actor John Carridine. Longfellow, formally a Phi Beta Kappa is on to Mrs. Hawks diabolical disposal of his friend Johnny (Bruce Dern). He reads up on Greek mythology and the his discovery is quite shocking. The heir apparent Pete (Hal Baylor) who, on his first night saw unbelievable sights of black magic, tries to leave the grounds, but greed also falls into play as curious Longfellow has monetary plans. Instead of notifying the local sheriff (Paul Newland), tries to extort Mrs. Hawks and her secret. A fascinating script that was very effective. No gore or gross visual effects to speak of but you're riveted to this hour long mystery. Jo Van Fleet does a masterful job and is always in control of the situation. Consistently slippery and cunning throughout the story you won't be disappointed. As for my edible journey outside my kosher world, I tried the pork spare ribs and they were a gastronomical wonder.
Review of The Remarkable Mrs. Hawk
