Reviews

10 Stars.

What a story, written by Leonard Lee, long time writer for the series and also LINEUP. This does have the feel of a "Lineup" episode, and may have been an outline for an earlier story. All about the Mob, pre GODFATHER material, with the real bad guys and lots of deadly twists.

Stu is called out of retirement by the CIA to investigate Silk Cipriano, exceptionally played by veteran actor Bruce Cabot. Silk is involved with illegal drug activity, a mob hit and there's a gang war brewing.

So what's the plan. Very cleverly, Stu assumes the identity of the Executioner, a notorious hitman and a long time friend of Silk. In a MISSION IMPOSSIBLE type ploy, Stu has to use contact lenses to change the color of his eyes, apply makeup, tease his hair! -- and even have a fake scar added to his chest, which Silk would recognize.

Great support from Dolores Donlan as Rena, the proverbial gun moll, who takes a liking to Stu, until she accidentally catches him without his contact lenses. More over, the REAL Executioner makes a surprise appearance. What NOW?

An excellent adventure by Leonard Lee, and as always, top direction by George WaGGner, the famous two G's, who gets some terrific performances here, particularly from Efrem Zimbalist, Jr.

Donlan, a former New York model, a few years before this episode posed for PLAYBOY magazine and appeared in four additional episodes. Bruce Cabot is spot on in the role of the mob boss, also co-starring Bert Freed as Emory. Look for Max Baer, Jr in a bit role as a young G-Man and popular character actor Jackie Coogan playing a drug lord called Baldy.

I agree with the last reviewer, a must see for 77 fans.

Best of SEASON 3 EPISODE 8 remastered. The series is now available in box sets containing the entire series. Thanks much to METV Plus for running this classic show on Sunday nights.

A good, old fashioned kidnap story, and all up to Tom to solve. Excellent writing by Lazslo Gorog and Joel Rogosin, who later produced IRONSIDE. Rogosin passed due to Covid in 2020.

Lots of actors in early roles here, which makes it a lot of fun. Future soap opera star Jeanne Cooper plays Paula Keith, a big movie star who gets caught up with some desperate thieves. When their heist goes wrong they kidnap her daughter, played by young Susan Seaforth Hayes. Hayes, as of this writing, has appeared in nearly 3000 episodes of DAYS OF OUR LIVES.

This may be the tv debut of Tina Cole, playing Sunny, the club singer. Connie Stevens at the time was in a contract dispute with Warner Brothers, so Tina got the temp job as a new singer. And she's great. In a few years, Tina would join the cast of MY THREE SONS as Katie. Look for tough guy Richard Bakalyan as Spence, an early role also for Victor French as Floyd and popular actor and director Richard Benedict guest stars.

Jeanne Cooper really shines in the lead, and has some super scenes with Robert Conrad.

A must see for tv buffs.

True. If you look closely at the calandar on the wall, the year is 1956. This episode was filmed in 1963.

Guess Warner Brothers didn't trash a lot of stuff.

Best of SEASON 4. Remastered on dvd in box sets that contain the entire series. Thanks much to ME TV Plus for running this classic series on Sunday nights.

Kind of neat to see Richard Long reprising his role as New Orleans detective Rex Randolph (from BOURBON STREET BEAT), now settling in Hollywood. With Stu and Jeff away, Rex takes on the case of a singer accused of killing a tabloid bigshot --who lots of celebs would have loved to nail. Fred Wayne plays Ransome, the victim, best known for playing Ben Franklin for years.

Richard Long is smooth here, and has some very good scenes, even with Kookie. I agree with the last reviewer, he probably was finishing out his contract with Warner Brothers/ABC TV. In any case, it was a smart move and with George WaGGner (the famous two G's) directing, you couldn't loose. 10 Stars

Notable supporting cast with burly Jock Mahoney, also Kaye Elhardt, who appeared in eight episodes, and Roxanne Arlen.

Dean Riesner wrote this gem, later to gain fame for writing DIRTY HARRY, and many other hits for Clint Eastwood. Lots of talent in this single episode. It all clicks, and wait for the ending. Could you guess whodunit before Rex?

SEASON 3 EPISODE 7 remastered. Check out the dvd box sets containing both the entire series and select episodes. Thanks again to METV Plus for running this top show Sunday nights.

The inside joke about the M. I. team is it was comprised of a multi-talented crew, beyond comprehension. These fine individuals were NOT only masters at complicated technical issues -- they could even work in stage productions! Their versatility was simply amazing.

The plot centers around power hungry Milos Kuro (played to the hilt by John Colicos), out to topple a small European country and discredit its premier, played by Barry Atwater. The interesting thing here is tall and grim-looking Atwater was best suited for playing nasty villains, but is the sympathetic character in this case.

Writer Lou Shaw, who created QUINCY, adds a clever touch to this episode, where the M. I. team gets involved in some dramatics. They work with Kuro to put on an anti-American play, however its anything but that. Tech guru Barney works his magic, as he has done in so many other cases, and the results are fascinating. It's also fun to see arrogant Colicos take an unexpected fall. Colicos was a master of moods.

Also co-starring Michael Tolan, a good addition to the cast, and always a treat to see Rollin (Martin Landau) in disguise. Lee H. Katzin once again proves he's a super director, lots of twists and turns and some atmospheric music to put it over the top.

SEASON 3 EPISODE 9 remastered CBS/Paramount color dvd box set. 7 dvd set.

Ever since the release of classic noirs like, DOUBLE INDEMNITY and the POSTMAN ALWAYS RINGS TWICE, you had a slew of stories all about the atypical young and crafty wife planning to eliminate her old husband. And the story, no matter how many times you see it, is always fascinating.

Hitch certainly put this storyline to good use through the years, and this episode is dandy, especially for the stars. Beautiful Gia Scala (remembered for the GUNS OF NAVARONE), plays an unhappy young lady saddled with an old fuddy duddy, played by popular character actor Les Tremayne. It's interesting to see Les in this type of role, usually cast as distinguished gentlemen.

Lee Philips plays Ben (the other much younger man), a love 'em and leave 'em type who needs money, ready, willing and able to do whatever his new lady wants. Let the games begin... NO need for spoilers because you well know how this is going to turn out, only a bit more creative thanks to Hitch. Wait and see.

Beautifully written by Bill S. Ballinger, who wrote many fine episodes for Hitch. Alan Crosland, Jr, directed, who like his famous dad, had an eye for detail and brought out some excellent performances here. Also a good supporting role for veteran actor Russell Collins, as Alvin Moss.

PS: You have to love the title. It fits.

SEASON 6 EPISODE 27 remastered. A classic dvd box set.

Here we go. Yet another chance for the castaways to get back home and they blow it, BIG TIME. Really big time. Creative writing from Al Schwartz, who did tons of episodes for RED SKELTON, and it shows.

This should be called "The Attack of the Feather People." Insane. A NASA rocket bound for Mars lands on the island -- and with a camera! I agree with the last reviewer; all the crew had to do was put up a sign. Instead, it's a free for all as to how to get noticed...

Most wacky situation concerns Gilligan and a pot of boiling glue? --plus a heap of colorful feathers (for Mrs. Howell's pillow), which eventually covers everybody from head to toe! This makes the NASA scientists think they've discovered Martians who look like giant chickens?

Spot on supporting cast featuring Arthur Peterson (best known for SOAP) and Booth Coleman (PLANET OF THE APES), playing the astounded scientists. Larry Thor (known for MR. NOVACK) plays the CBS newscaster, and it quite good.

Trivia note, watch the Skipper or Alan Hale looking --hopelessly -- at the camera, reminding you a lot of Laurel and Hardy. Hardy was famous for shaking his head in dismay at the camera, later immitated by lots of comedians.

This outrageous episode may have gone to inspire many other sitcom episodes that featured people getting splattered with feathers. An old idea, actually from silent films, that became new again.

10 Stars. Best of SEASON 2 remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set.

This goofy "mixup" story was a common theme in the series, and so much fun to watch untangle. Also why the show was such a big hit.

In this case, Mrs. Drysdale is heading out to a health resort claiming when she returns her husband will have a "new wife." Man-hungry cousin Pearl (played so well by Bea Benadaret) thinks Drysdale is looking for a new wife. Get it?

More over, there's some outrageous dialogue, thanks to series creator Paul Henning. Drysdale tells Jed there's not enough room in his house for his wife and his new wife, meaning the "new" Mrs. Drysdale. Jed thinks Drysdale wants to live with TWO women? Bad news for Pearl.

Outrageous closing scene where Jed scares off Drysdale from marrying Pearl, who wasn't interested in her in the first place! Both Granny and Pearl pretend they're drunk and start hurling dishes at each other in the kitchen! A gotsta' see.

Bea Benadaret, soon to star in PETTICOAT JUNCTION, is a hoot. She was a master of voices and yodels in this episode, and is pretty darn good. Paul Henning's daughter, Linda, who would also co-star on Petticoat Junction, does the "female" voice for Jethro in a gag scene.

Excellent direction by Richard Whorf, who diercted 67 episodes for the show, many others for MY THREE SONS.

Classic stuff. Only debit it's in black and white. SEASON 1 EPISODE 18 remastered. 5 dvd box set. Released 2015. Great box set with a fun cover.

Super charged episode all about a woman who owns a haunted house in Oxnard, California (near Ventura), who blames the death of both her father and husband to a deadly spirit. A rare episode in which multiple family members of a client are killed. It's also another strange case where a beautiful house comes with so much trouble.

Amy's walk through reveals several deceased spirits who are on the property. However, there's a weird twist to the story; the spirits are connected to someone who was performing a seance with a mirror. Amy claims the mirror actually opened to another dimension in which the dead are able to pass, and are now in the house. This incident has to be a first for the series, and a warning to those who wish to contact the dead, but are not professionals. A recurring theme for years in the series.

Most intriguing part of the show are the rough sketches that are drawn. One scary sketch shows their client surrounded by a room full of spirits while they are sleeping in bed. The spirits are literally surrounding her bed. The artists in each episode are to be commended for their fine work.

The big question is can they fight off the spirits and save their house. In a sweeping move, Amy says she will personally bring in a team of mediums to close the "mirror" responsible for the souls entering the house. In a startling reveal, Amy also recommends special help for her client's husband who is wandering the property and needs to cross over. A very complicated plan, but if followed should clense the house once and for all.

An episode not to be missed. SEASON 14 EPISODE 2. Originally from 2021. Rebroadcast June 2024.

Another familiar "I thought it was for me..." story that so often plagued poor Dagwood. This time, Mr. Radcliffe trusts Dagwood with an expensive new watch -- which he wants to give to bank secretary Adele Jergens -- to insure a loan for a construction deal. He brings it home, Blondie finds it, and she thinks its for their anniversary! What a mess.

Veteran comedy writer Jack Henley wrote this funny and frustrating story. Dagwood now has a problem with Blondie, a problem with his boss, a problem with the secretary, and gets mixed up with a loan shark called Sharkey, best played by William Frawley. He has NO CHOICE but to buy another watch -- a real, real cheap one -- give it to Gloria (Jergens) who is insulted, and tells Radcliffe to get lost!

A highlight are Dagwood's scenes with Frawley, playing the menacing loan shark, who guarantees him "compound fracture interest" if he doesn't repay the super high interest loan. You can only feel sorry for Dagwood (once again), a genuine victim of circumstances, and stretched in every possible direction. Murphy's Law on steroids.

The supporting cast is a winner, especially beautiful Adele Jergens, who appeared in so many memorable films. Also Grant Mitchell (as stern Mr. Breckenbridge), Edmund MacDonald (as Bob), familiar character actor Frank Wilcox (as Carter), and Fred F. Sears (Bert), later a popular director of 50s sci fi films.

Excellent writing by Jack Henley, who began a long career with comedy shorts in the 1930s, including some starring Fatty Arbuckle. After writing several more BLONDIE episodes, he began writing episodes for the MA AND PA KETTLE series.

Dedicated to all us Dagwood and/or Arthur Lake fans. Always on dvd, either sold separately or in box sets of the entire series. Thanks again to METV Plus for running this classic series, like the old days, on Saturday mornings.

Veteran actor Sidney Toler seemed a natural to replace Warner Oland as the famous Oriental detective. Oland, who passed after a brief illness, was missed, however Toler brought his own unique style to the role, which was a hit with audiences. Oland played Charlie more in a light and methodical way, while Toler's portrayal often matched the sly, calculating persona of the villains. Though his character has reason to smile in this premier episode, overseeing the birth of his first grandchild, which was humorously woven into the plot.

Charles Belden, credited for writing what is considered the very best Chan mystery, CHARLIE CHAN AT THE OPERA, penned this installment, also considered one of the series most memorable later episodes. Hits the bullseye, replete with an ample dose of mystery, atmosphere, adventure and comedy. The film also marked the debut of Victor Sen Yung, playing young Jimmy Chan, replacing Keye Luke, who bowed out of the series after the death of Oland. Yung played the role very much in the style of Luke, likable and gullable, and always at odds with his famous dad. Yung actually was discovered on the Fox lot, working part time as a chemical company salesman, trying to sell his wares to the production department at the time. He immediately auditioned for the role and won.

Here, Charlie is stuck on a docked freighter where there's a murder and a fortune in stolen cash mixed into the proceedings, highlighted by a wide assorted of interesting suspects. And what a supporting cast. Distinguished dramatic actor Robert Barrat plays the scowling ship captain, comedian Eddie Collins (who would return to the series) plays jittery Al, in charge of the wild animals on board, also screen heavy Marc Lawrence, doing what he does best. Richard Lane turned up in an interesting role. Lane generally played detectives, only here he plays a crook pretending to be a cop. Pretty Phyllis Brooks and Claire Dodd co-starred.

Best of the lot, especially for horror fans, is George Zucco, playing a mysterious doctor who has a fixation with "brains"?

Excellent direction by H. Bruce Humberstone, who mastered several of the Warner Oland Chan episodes, and getting some fine performances, especially Zucco.

10 Earned Stars.

One dynamic mystery, not to be missed. Thank you much to RETRO TV for running these classic mysteries, which haven't been around in years. Remastered in several Fox dvd box sets with other CHARLIE CHAN episodes. A must for collectors.

Yet another famous actor turned up as Mr. Freeze, this time played by master character actor Eli Wallach. Wallach probably landed the part due to his super bad guy role in THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY opposite Clint Eastwood. I agree with the last reviewer, Otto Preminger was memorable in the role, and so was George Sanders, but Wallach ain't bad. You have to admit, Mr. Freeze was a classic character, and definitely had a following, and producer William Dozier didn't want to let him go too soon. Also Preminger's performance may have been an inspiration to Arnold's casting in the role on the wide screen decades later.

Preminger was fired by Dozier because of his complaints and demands behind the scenes, also delaying filming, which raised lots of eyebrows back in the day, considering he ran a tight ship with his own productions as a director. He clashed and fired actors for doing exactly what he did on the set. Strange stuff.

Here, Freeze wants to develop a deadly ice ray gun and kidnaps Professor Isaacson (Elisha Cook, Jr), who is developing a formula called "instand ice." Cook is always to fun to watch in offbeat roles, only debit he wasn't cast more often. Pretty Leslie Parrish plays ice skater Glacia Glaze, and no surprise she's in league with the Freeze maniac. Parrish would appear in three episodes, popular on tv at the time.

There's an inside gag appearance by a European rug dealer called Cyril Lord. He wasn't really known to audiences, but because he sold Dozier an oriental rug, he got a free plug on the show. Amazing. Makes you wonder how many other venders approached Dozier for bit parts?

Written by series writer Charles Hoffman, who actually was an authority on the series. He served as script supervisor for the show's entire run, hence bringing back Mr. Freeze for one last time. Best known to all us cop show fans as the producer for HAWAIIN EYE.

Must see for Eli Wallach and Elisha Cook, especially if you're a movie buff. SEASON 2 EPISODE 59 remastered color. Volumes One and Two. Thanks much to METV for running BATMAN on Saturday nights.

Classic Hitch, and exceptionally cast with Eileen Heckart (as Lucy), a woman literally at the end of her rope. Eileen Heckart was a natural in any role. Watch her at her very best.

10 earned stars.

Lucy is caught between Arthur (Don Defore), her fiancee, and her complaining mother. I agree with the last reviewer, and best put. Lucy's mother is an emotional vampire and driving her nuts. You probably can guess what's in the cards... and this is when Hitch pulls out the rug.

Arthur soon introduces HIS mother to Lucy! What an emotional rollercoaster, and Eileen Heckart has a dynamic closing scene, you can't miss.

Popular senior actress Jesslyn Fax plays Arthur's mother, who appeared in two of Hitch's films, REAR WINDOW and NORTH BY NORTHWEST. Interestingly, there was wide debate as to whether she appeared in the latter film (in one scene) OR... Hitchcock doing her role in drag? Were they serious?

It turned out, it was the real actress. Super trivia question for buffs. And it's strange how the rumor began in the first place.

One terrific episode. Thank you, Eileen Heckart.

SEASON 6 EPISODE 26 remastered CBS dvd box set. The set with the famous yellow cover.

Well, not always!

This is an episode that should have went to Zsa Zsa Gabor, who would have been sensational. That said, popular screen actress Martha Hyer is fairly good herself, playing filthy rich Tracy, who wants Jed's mansion in Beverly Hills at any price!

The dialogue is outrageous, as usual. Tracy asks Jed how much money he has (invested) in the house, to which he replies, "Granny has a few dollars in the cookie jar!"

Since Mr. Drysdale lives next door, he's on his toes, doing everything he can to please Tracy -- which includes trying to get her fortune in his bank! In the meanwhile, Tracy tries to smooch up to Jed, and he's gettin' mighty suspicious! Super directing from Joseph Depew, who broke a record, directing 145 episodes of the Number 1 tv show at the time. He was the perfect choice for this show.

Look for veteran Douglas Dumbrille (playing Doug), in a role obviously written for him, playing Tracy's assistant and go-fer. Dumbrille was a staple in many classic movies (often as a villain) and tv shows.

If you think Tracy's elite Hollywood apartment looks familiar, you're right! It's the same set used on GREEN ACRES as the Douglas' original penthouse in New York City. Producer Paul Henning also handled that sitcom, so it made good sense.

By the way, Granny wearing Tracy's expensive coat is a hoot. And love the Rolls Royce. Martha Hyer at the time was married to distinguished film producer Hal B. Wallis.

Best of SEASON 4 EPISODE 16 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Catch the classic family cover portrait.

Yes, this is creepy Hitchcock material, and a very popular episode at that. Dean Stockwell, who we all watched grow up on the wide screen, plays a young gentleman called Billy who takes a room in the home of a kindly old lady, played by noneother than Patricia Collinge. An original actress.

Right off the bat, you know there's something strange about the set-up, which really draws you in to this mystery. The landlady tells Billy she has two other roomers -- but where the heck are they?

Does curiosity kill the cat? Wait and see. Two prolific writers are behind this gem. The story was originally written by famous short story writer Roald Dahl (WILLY WONKA AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY), re-written for tv by Hitch's favorite writer, Robert Bloch (PSYCHO). How could you lose with this team?

Patricia Collinge, who also appeared in SHADOW OF A DOUBT for Hitchcock, is memorable in this role, frequently cast in the series, and for good reason.

You know the ending is going to be weird, and getting there is all the more fun. Excellent writing and acting.

Look for popular "senior" actor Burt Mustin who turned up in a ton of tv shows, even in bit parts. At the time he was appearing on LEAVE IT TO BEAVER as Gus, the fireman.

SEASON 6 EPISODE 19 remastered Universal dvd box set. The Best.

This was the only episode directed by Don Richardson, best known for LOST IN SPACE. It's an adventure, and Don gets some fine performances here, namely guest stars Lee Grant and Fernando Lamas. What a treat.

The top secret location data of four American missile sites are stolen, and the M. I. team has its work cut out for them. The interesting part about this episode is Cinnamon was briefly replaced by a new operative, called Susan Buchanan (well played by Lee Grant). Barbara Bain was in a contract dispute with Paramount TV at the time and was written out of the script. Oscar winning actress Lee Grant was the perfect replacement, and is fun to watch, kissing up to devious playboy Fernando Lamas, playing Roger Toland. It's unclear if the part was written for him, but he's the perfect fit. No better choice.

Toland is in league with an equally notorious colonel (played by Alfred Ryder, no less), their goal being to hold on to the secret missile data, which would be priceless. The most clever part of the story is convincing Toland and the colonel the info they have is worthless (although it really isn't), making them think the United States was trying to fool them all along. Now they have it, now they don't. This neat switch would be used again in many other episodes. Credit writer Jerrold Ludwig, later to be head writer and producer for MURDER, SHE WROTE.

The series was lucky to get Lee Grant, who had recently co-starred in IN THE HEAT OF THE NIGHT, opposite Rod Steiger and VALLEY OF THE DOLLS.

Fernando Lamas makes a heck of a smooth villain, matched by Alfred Ryder, born to play high ranking officials. They make a memorable team, and you can't wait to see them get faked out BIG TIME.

This is fun, however Barbara Bain is missed, and a prelude to further contract disputes which would eventually lead to both she and husband Martin Landau leaving the series. This was big news at the time that began circling the series. However, Barbara Bain would return to finish out the season.

SEASON 3 EPISODE 8 remastered color dvd box set. 7 dvd set.

Extremely atmospheric, creepy episode that finds Stu heading up to a REMOTE hunting lodge in the Sierra Nevada Mountains to check on a friend's young daughter, well played by Sherry Jackson.

The super catch here; nobody is to be trusted and in the mix is a killer wildcat on the loose. There are some scary scenes, thanks to ace director George WaGGner (as usual), who really keeps Stu on his toes. The real story is about gangsters in hiding, who may be using the wildcat as a front, to cover up murders. Beware of the cat growls in the middle of the night!

What a cast. Horance McMahon, who was starring in NAKED CITY at the time, plays a tough guy called Ed, and having fun with the role. Popular actor and director Lawrence Dobkin is cast as a professor, and Edward Platt (GET SMART) plays Steve. Also look for sci fi film star William Hudson. Sherry Jackson is the only female lead here, playing Ella. Sherry appeared five times on the show, best known for THE DANNY THOMAS SHOW.

This episode also marked the return (albeit brief) of Ed "Kookie" Byrnes, who was in a contract dispute with Warner Brothers/ABC TV and missed several episodes, amid lots of publicity. There was also a writers strike at the time and note the screenwriters name, W. Hermanos --who did not exist. The script was actually put together by assorted writers who re-wrote old scripts, such as Steve Frazee, a writer of western novels, though he did tv westerns for WB.

W. Harmanos cleverly stood for Warner Brothers in Spanish! Good trivia question.

10 Stars for director George WaGGner (the famous two G's) who lets this one roll, and wait for the classic ending.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 34 remastered, now on dvd in assorted box sets containing the entire series. Thanks much to ME TV Plus for running this super show on Sunday nights.

Defnitely a reference to Charlie Chaplin's classic, THE GREAT DICTATOR. This is outrageous, and credit the over the top acting of Nahemiah Persoff, a master of dialects, enormously popular in both tv and movies. It's also a tribute to the actor, who passed at the age of 102 in 2022.

Persoff plays exiled dicator Pancho Rodriguez (he even has a longer name...) former president of a small South American country (Ecuarico) that has been taken over by another power. His new life is on the island -- and right way -- Pancho declares himself dictator and chief and everything else.

Best of it is the imaginary dream sequence, and with all the frills. Gilligan is the leader of some backwards country, at odds with gun-toting Pancho. The sets and costumes are amazing. This had to be the most elaborate of all episodes. Creative writing to the max; check out the hilarious scene where Pancho strings Gilligan up as his own puppet. The skipper as the dopey assistant (with a silly hat) is a hoot. CANNOT miss Ginger as a special secret agent, wearing a leopard skin designer bikini? A certified classic, credited to director Jack Arnold, as usual.

Without giving too much away, Pancho leaves the island as quickly as he arrived -- and why can't the castaways do the same thing? The eternal question that has bugged all us true fans for years. The ending with the radio news bulletin about Pancho is a blast.

10 Stars. All the way. SEASON 2 EPISODE 3 remastered color dvd box sets; 3 dvd set 2005, 6 dvd set 2012.

This is fun, well written by Joanna Lee, who later became a top soap opera producer.

The ladies get to strut their stuff in a talent and beauty contest, kind of like a low budget take-off of MISS AMERICA. Gilligan, who suggested it in the first place, gets to judge and its a tough, tough decision. Dawn Wells, Tina Louise and Natalie Schafer are fun to watch, and Tina's sexy rendition of "Let Me Entertain You." is a mini classic.

The best part is the show prep. Mary Ann walking around with books on her head (for proper posturing) is a hoot, and don't miss her famous one piece bathing suit. Dawn Wells was actually crowned Miss Nevada in 1959. Good trivia question.

I agree with the last reviewer, the super acting award goes to Jim Backus. Mr. Howell has never been more animated, trying to do all he can to promote his wife against Ginger and Mary Ann.

This episode has its moments, and wait for the surprise ending. Again, the eternal question; where did the ladies get all the fancy threads? The wardrobe department has to be given full credit, and with some trendy 60s styles.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 2. Remastered dvd box sets; 3 dvd set released 2005 and 6 dvd set released 2015.

This is Granny's episode all the way, and Irene Ryan is having a blast. No other way to put it. The big debate about this sitcom is who had the wackiest role -- Granny or Jethro. In all fairness, you have to call it a tie. They were both outrageous.

Granny whips up a new batch of her tonic, a revolutionary cure-all that will make you feel good all over! Naturally, she meets up with by the book Dr. Clyburn (memorably played by Fred Clark), who lectures Granny on "good medicine" -- as opposed to quakery? Really?

There are some hilarious exchanges between Granny and Clyburn, and not to miss Granny's super charged tv commercial. Unfortunately, this was the last appearance of Fred Clark, who passed about a year later. Fred was the perfect choice for playing the astounded on steroids doctor, always at odds with Granny. He is missed.

Popular actress Barbara Morrison plays snooty Mrs. DeLongpre, one of the doctor's patients -- who is won over by Granny. William Bendix's daughter makes a cameo appearance as Miss Lovely.

Top writing by series writer Mark Tuttle, who came up with some of the funniest episodes for years. Tuttle was probably one of the best sitcom writers ever.

SEASON 5 EPISODE 27 remastered color CBS dvd box set. Collectors edition with a super family portrait cover.

A big thank you to RETRO TV for rerunning the CHARLIE CHAN films with Warner Oland, the very best of the lot, and after many years in retirement. They deserve to be seen, especially for all us mystery buffs.

This one is the perfect storm. It has it all; an exceptional plot, entertaining characters and Charlie's wise old sayings, best known as "Chan-O-Grams," to carefully weave the story together. Credit the famous husband and wife team at Fox, Robert Ellis (a former silent film actor and director), and his wife, Helen Logan, for writing the bulk of these priceless whodunits.

The story starts on a ship, leaving Honolulu, on its way to California, with prize race horses set to compete in the famous Santa Juanita challenge. One of the winning horse's owners is killed (believed to have been kicked to death in the stall), setting off the mystery. And what a whodunit. A crafty ring of betters is behind the homicide, also pulling a clever switch with the horses. It's fun to see Charlie size up each of the suspects, and not to give too much away, but watch him closely as he seizes every move, every slight mannerism, which is fascinating. Viewing this film a second time, actually fills in some holes, but it's dynamic material. The dialogue, especially Charlie's wry exchanges with suspects, is priceless.

An prime example of extraordinary writing. Keye Luke returns to the cast, always fun, as Number One Son, actually helpful at times to Charlie, as you will see. Rounding out the cast are some fine actors; Alan Dinehart as Chester, Thomas "Tommy" Beck (as Bruce), Helen Wood (Alice), Gavin Muir and series regular Jonathan Hale, playing Fenton. Hale would appear in three of the Chan films. Young Frankie Darro plays "Tip" Collins, a role he would become famous for (but really didn't play that many times), the jockey caught up in the deadly scheme.

Exceptionally directed by H. Bruce Humberstone, referred to as the father of the series, who also played a large part in keeping Warner Oland into character. Notes indicate he actually encouraged Oland to drink, who was in fact an alcoholic, to relax him and ease him into the part --which apparently worked. It was often said Oland's very best performances were due to Humberstone, also known as "Lucky." On the other side of the story, Oland subsequently fell asleep a lot, so to keep him alert, Bruce always surrounded him with noisey extras!

Beautifully filmed at Santa Anita Race Track in Aecadia, CA. A historical note by itself.

Dedicated to all us ultimate mystery fans. Super dvd box set by Fox, also featuring "Charlie Chan at the Circus," "Charlie Chan at the Opera," and "Charlie Chan at the Olympics." Released 2006, rich with background material, remastered comparisons and interviews.

You have to admit one thing, Roger Corman (who passed in 2024) made this film to scare the heck out of all of us kids, and he sure did. This is campy stuff, long a favorite on Saturday afternoons and, especially, CHILLER THEATER viewings late night. You could not get enough of this sci fi, which introduced all of us to the first alien vampire.

Charles Griffith, a regular writer for Corman, pulled out all the stops, extremely creative writing on his part, and has to be congratulated for cooking up one heck of a story.

Tall and mysterious Paul Birch is spot on as Mr. Johnson, an alien who wears dark glasses from a planet called Davana. His mission is to get human blood for the dying inhabitants of his war-torn home. Yes, Griffith, as always, tosses in a little dark comedy; Johnson simply lifts his glasses and lets his burning eyes kill people. A sight you have to see! He then opens a little medical bag and drains their blood. OR... he hynotizes his victims, guides them to his Hollywood mansion and transports them to his planet via a closet time machine. Amazing.

On another fun, if not campy note, Johnson drives a slick black 1955 Caddy, an ominous looking car at times. When it speeds up to the camera --the front headlights kind of look like him --without his sun glasses! Pretty creative stuff on Corman's part.

Beautiful Beverly Garland, in a role that made her a cult star, plays the heroine, Nadine, medical secretary to Dr. Rochelle (played by William Roerick), who becomes a "forced" consultant to Johnson. And wait until you see his gruesome fate when he's about to expose him. Johnson is as much as a fiend as he is a helpless victim here. Don't feel too sorry for this guy. He comes off, at first, as sort of a mild-mannered businessman.

Great support from Jonathan Haze as Johnson's wise-cracking chauffeur, Jeremy -- who is paid in gold! Haze also became a cult film star, though gave up acting to become a very successful advertising executive for tv commercials. He is also the last surviving cast member of this incredible film.

Morgan Jones is the two fisted hero, also a cop and boyfriend of Garland, and not to forget Dick Miller in an outrageous bit. Miller plays a vacuum cleaner salesman who just happens to knock on Johnson's door one sunny afternoon -- and watch what happens to this guy. A classic bit.

This is a whole lot of fun, but also creepy scary at times, and that's the kicker. The ending with Johnson chasing Nadine with the black Caddy through an abandoned park is one for the books.

Exceptionally filmed by Corman.

According to Beverly Garland, Paul Birch up and quit the production, luckily near the end, claiming the special eye contacts (making his eyes look blank) physically hurt him. Fortunately, most of his scenes were done, but a stand-in was used for what he did not film. The camp ending features the stand-in, although it looks like another alien from the same planet --but it's supposed to be him returning from the dead. Get it?

By the way, if you ever had the opportunity to visit Beverly Garland's famous hotel in North Hollywood (about a block or two from the BRADY BUNCH house), she proudly displayed original posters from this movie in her lobby for years. What a treat for fans. After her passing, the memorabilia was moved to a mini museum at the hotel.

10 Plus Stars for one bizarre film, and it's addictive. You will want to see it again, as all us kids did back in the day. Even our teachers talked about this movie in class, some who even saw it when it premiered in 1957.

The best dvd box set is called ROGER CORMAN'S CULT CLASSICS, Triple Feature. Also showcasing ATTACK OF THE CRAB MONSTERS and WAR OF THE SATELLITES. Lots of behind the scenes material and trailers. Released 2004. A collectors item.

Shades of KEY LARGO here, the film which Claire Trevor won a much deserved Oscar for playing a hopeless drunk.

Claire is spot on in this role, but instead of playing a gangster's moll, she portrays a lonely woman with a drinking problem who lost her baby many years ago to a young couple. What a story to tell, and from both sides.

Ida Lupino directed this episode with her usual flair; you could only imagine these two film greats working together. Trevor plays Mrs. Meade, who unexpectedly enters the lives of the Birdwells (Robert Sampson and Patricia Smith) who have raised her baby girl over the last several years, and expect to keep her.

Mrs. Meade claims she was cheated, plain and simple, wants her child back or will sue the couple for damages... That is... until a strange man enters her life and claims he can get her child back by simply kidnapping her! I agree with the last reviewer, the second half of his classic episode definitely has the Hitchcock stamp, and you'll be surprised how it all ends.

Applause for movie tough guy Biff McGuire, playing Phil. Popular actor Robert Sampson passed in 2020. Look for funnyman Howard McNear (ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW) playing Mr. Maxwell. No matter what role McNear did, he always seemed to look and act like Floyd the famous tv barber.

A must see from SEASON 6. Remastered dvd box set. 5 dvd sets. Released 2013 and 2015. Classic yellow box set.

First off, it's like old times watching GHOST ADVENTURES on Saturday nights, where it all began. If you've followed this historic series since the very beginning, you know Zak Bagans and his dedicated crew have investigated a ton of haunted hotels, and many in Los Angeles.

This scary episode is all about the infamous Hotel Barclay in downtown LA, reportedly, the oldest hotel in the city, built in 1897. In 2021 it was re-converted into low rent housing for homeless people. In between those turbulent years there have been several documented cases of suicides and murders, some grisly.

The most bizarre case happened in 1944 when an ex-naval hospital employee stabbed a drunken women to death, who he lured to his room. He later confessed he intended to chop her body up, even admitting he was a cannabal, but instead left her in a closet. The following day he checked into another hotel and killed yet another woman.

There's also a tie to the BLACK DAHLIA, said to have lived at the hotel. The vintage newspaper clippings listing all the deaths here are incredible.

Zak and the crew go into action, stake out the hotel -- late at night-- and let the games begin. This is one creepy episode with a host of unexplained noises and strange events, including doors mysteriously opening. Always the most bizarre segment in any episode.

The team's advanced communication devices rule, which allow them to "talk" with the dead, at least to get some kind of response. This episode is no exception. Hang tight.

Considering all the horrible incidents that happened in the building, there's no question the place is haunted and will remain in that state for years to come, regardless how many times its rebuilt and modernized. That's one sobering fact.

Interesting notes; the hotel was built by Isaac Newton Van Nuys, related to the Lankershim family who owned most of North Hollywood and Van Nuys, California. President McKinley visited the hotel in 1901, later that year being assassinated in New York.

There's speculation the hotel may have dangerous spirits who attached themselves to guests, even those who left the building. There's no proof either way, but it's a heck of a talking point and chilling coincidence since the president did in fact stay there.

SEASON 28 EPISODE 2. Originally broadcast in 2023. Rebroadcast in June 2024 on TRAVEL Net. Thank you so much.

Writer Stanford "Stan" Sherman just let this fly, anything goes. And to tell you the truth, it's outrageous fun. Even the title, a re-working of the last episode, "Pop Goes the Joker," now appropriately titled "Flop Goes the Joker." Love it.

The Joker's master plan is to pull a switch-a-roo in Bernie Park's (Reginald Gardiner) fabulous art museum, steal all the rare paintings and replace them with fakes. The question is what's the difference between the real art and the fakes? Once again, Joker is supported by filthy rich Baby Jane (Diana Ivarson, and looking sharp), not realizing he's just using her to get what he wants. What a fiend this guy is!

Two super scenes here. The bizarro painting contest is a laugh out loud riot, again thanks to Stan Sherman's creative writing. And in reality, the Joker's splashing paint all over the place was, in fact, not that far from what real artsits of the day actually did to get their 15 minutes of fame.

The second super scene, although original, does STRETCH poetic license to the thinnest. Joker heads over to Bruce Wayne's mansion and just happens to discover the "secret switch" that reveals the Batpole and entry into the Bat Cave. Of course, he has to battle it out with brave Alfred in a wild sword fight. This may be the most energized scene Alan Napier ever did on the show as Alfred, and he's good.

The point though... with Joker discovering the Bat Cave entrance, wouldn't he realize Bruce Wayne is Batman? It's reminiscent of the famous SUPERMAN tv episode where Superman's costume is found in Clark Kent's apartment closet. But all us long time fans just roll with it.

Look closely, and you can see Cesar Romero's "real" moustache painted over by his heavy makeup. Romero did not want to shave off his trademark moustache, and you couldn't blame the guy. The fight scenes are well staged, again thanks to director George WaGGner (the famous two G's), no stranger to knock down, drag out brawls on his famous show, 77 SUNSET STRIP. George directed some of the best episodes on that show, inspiring many future cop shows, like MANNIX.

Enjoy the insanity. 10 Earned Stars, especially for heroic Alfred. SEASON 2 EPISODE 58 remastered color. Vol. 1 and 2 dvd box sets which have become collectors items.

Could this have been a "slight" take-off of the Joan Crawford classic, MILDRED PIERCE? Of course, minus all the high drama. Enter Blondie as the struggling 1940s housewife who, like Mildred, strikes out on her own and starts a very successful cookie business. You have to admit, it's a very inspiring episode and filmed during the post WWII boom in which lots of people were doing their own thing. Kind of a neat time capsule of America.

On the other side, poor Dagwood is at odds with Mr. Radcliffe and a headstrong client called J. T. Thorpe (well played by Clarence Kolb), who wants to enlarge his radio station operations. Things don't go too smoothly with Mr. Thorpe, as can be expected. However, in a rather neat twist, Dagwood begins tinkering with short wave radio (safely back home) and puts together an amateur radio station in his attic. Kind of a clever twist here...

Interestingly, this move was not that far from the truth due to the fact that shart wave radio sets at the time were quite popular. It's also fun to watch Dagwood sort of going into business himself. In the meanwhile, Blondie continues with her cookie business, and quite accidentally, crosses paths with Dagwood's amateur radio station and becomes a star in her own right.

Not done yet. Hilarious Hugh Herbert returns to the series and actually saves the day for everybody. Herbert plays Mr. Simmons, also interested in cookies -- who in reality is very famous -- a big help to both Dagwood and Blondie in the end.

Hugh Herbert steals the show once again, just so much fun, a perfect fit for the series.

Look for popular character actor Gino Corrado as the caterer. Gino appeared with the THREE STOOGES, and reportedly, was cast in over 1000 films in his long career, certainly setting a record.

Excellent writing by Arthur Marx (son of Groucho!). This was Arthur's second film credit, and he hit the bullseye. Unfortunately, it was his only story for the series. Arthur eventually moved to tv and wrote for scores of sitcoms, best known for ALICE in the 70s.

Everything clicks. A memorable episode. Remastered on dvd, both separately and in box sets. Thanks much to MOVIES Net for running this classic series on Saturdays.