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Comparing Godspell to its near-contemporaries Jesus ChristSuperstar and Hair is unavoidable, but Godspell has developed its own unique following. With their thrift-store-meets-circus-performer garb, the characters in David Greene's adaptation of the popular off-Broadway production may look more like the hippies in Hair than the biblical personages of Superstar. But Godspell isn't really about the "Age of Aquarius," nor does it adopt a dark or operatic tone towards its subject matter, the Gospel according to Matthew. The mood is, instead, upbeat and uplifting (at least until the crucifixion sequence).

The film opens with youthful city dwellers from various walks of life dropping their activities to follow John the Baptist (David Haskell from the original New York production). They sing ("Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord") as he leads them into a fountain where they are (metaphorically) baptized. There they meet Jesus (Victor Garber). Frizzy hair and mime makeup aside, the handsome young Garber (Titanic, Annie) is convincing in his film debut. Once baptized, they follow him around various scenic New York locations, singing and acting out passages from the Scriptures.

The largely unknown cast is talented and charismatic, but the film is only fitfully engaging on an emotional level because only Jesus, John, and Judas (Haskell again) emerge as distinct characters. Stephen Schwartz's pleasing pop-rock score, however, helps to smooth over the rough spots, and Robin Lamont's hit version of "Day by Day" remains a highlight. --Kathleen C. Fennessy ... Read more

Reviews (105)

When wilt thou save the people?
I love Godspell, but this film won't be for everyone. The plot is confusing, since it's basically just Jesus and his disciples acting out parables from the Bible as the plot meanders along, somewhat faithful to the Gospel of Mattthew. The cast mugs a lot, using a ton of cartoon-y voices and facial expressions, which can get annoying.

My favorite part of Godspell is the music. I love almost every song. "Save The People," "Bless The Lord," "By My Side," "Beautiful City," "Day By Day," "Turn Back, O Man" are just some of the classics that appear in this film, sung with an exciting innocence, and staged somewhat inventively, especially the "All For The Best," number.

The cast is great - fans of ABC's "Alias" television series will be shocked to see Victor Garber as an Afro'd Superman shirt singing Jesus. I know I was! The great Lynne Thigpen, sadly passed away, gets a great rollicking number in "Bless The Lord," and the rest of the cast is entertaining as well in their own ways.

So this movie may not be for everybody - if you don't think you can handle a movie based on Bible parables, then don't bother buying this. But I suggest giving this a try - I did, and it turned into one of my favorite movies.

The Best Religious Musical Ever!
I am in a production of "Godspell" myself at my high school as John the Baptist. The movie was the perfect way to really see how David Haskell performed it. Not only that, but the power of the final scene made realize just exactly what I'd undertaken. The music, the characters, and the scenery made this a very moving show. The only bad comment that I would have to make is that the sound quality on some of the songs deteriorates, which made me a little edgy. However, I cannot believe that someone could call it a mockery of the New Testament. I consider it one of the best. Suddenly we can see Jesus, in a modern-day situation, and relate to him. The songs add more brilliant color to the movie, with songs varying from jubilant (Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord), to sad (By My Side, On The Willows). I would say that even if you aren't a religious person, the music and the acting is worth watching.

Better than Superstar
Someone said that this musical is horrible and if you wanted to see a Bible-based retelling of the Gospels to see Jesus Christ Superstar or !Hero. First of all, Jesus Christ Superstar is not Biblical and denies the diety of Christ (the writers aren't even Christians). !Hero is a well-intentioned try, but it's not the Bible, its paralellism (like sandwiches out of a backpack instead of bread and fish for feeding the 5000). Godspell, while at first seeming entirely bizarre and maybe even mocking, once you take a good look at it, you can see that they are really presenting the teachings of Jesus (whereas Superstar only presented the 'drama' of the story) in a fun and creative way that doesn't take away from the message. The songs are great too, although they may need some time to grow on you (because it is very very 70's).
One thing to keep in mind is that this movie is told in presentational form, where the audience is acknowledged and talked to. The actors in the movie are playing *actors*. The movie is meant to be understood that the people in the movie are *actors* acting out the stories. Once you get this, it's a very entertaining movie with great songs, dancing, and creative ways of modernizing some aspects of the Gospel without completely changing the message. I suggest getting it if you enjoy musicals in general, or if you're looking for a good alternative to Jesus Christ Superstar.

THIS MUSICAL IS TERRIBLE!!!
THIS MUSICAL DOSN'T MAKE SENSE! IT'S STUIPED! WHY DID THEY PUT JESUS ON A BASEBALL GATE INSTEAD OF PUTTING HIM ON A CROSS?!?! THIS MUSICAL CAN NEVER BE MADE SO IT WOULD BE BETTER.

THE FIRST SONG IS OK, BUT I'M STILL CONFUSED WITH THE WHOLE SUPERMAN SHIRT THING.

I CAN HARDLY REMEMBER THE OTHER SONGS. I SAY IF YOU WANT TO SEE A GOOD BIBLE BASED ROCK OPERA, YOU SHOULD SEE !HERO OR JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR.

When.. you.. feel.. sad..
My sister and I have been fans of this movie almost since it came out. It is by far my favorite musical.

I love most of the musical numbers, except for "Alas For You", which scared me when I was a kid... but, I'm over it now. No, really, I am. :)

There aren't too many bonuses on the dvd (which is my reason for four stars instead of five): a couple of short text bios of a few of the stars and some trailers of the movie. The scene selection choices were well done, so if you have one favorite song from the movie, you can go straight to it.

The only two stars from this, that I know of, that have had a long lasting acting career, are Victor Garber who plays Jesus (I still can't believe this is the same guy that plays Sydney's father on Alias) and the late very great Lynne Thigpen.

Out of my dvd collection, this one has the strangest list of foreign language subtitles: English, Spanish, Portugese, Chinese, Korean, and Thai. I'm guessing the movie wasn't all that popular in Europe.

Soooo, when you feel sad or under a curse, this movie should definitely lift your spirits. Enjoy! ... Read more

Reviews (11)

A & E Launches the Colour Episodes
When A&E started their series of The Avengers TV Show, they started with the colour Diana Rigg episodes. Then they worked backwards to the black and white Rigg shows, and then the second seaon of Honor Blackman episodes.

Although the colour Saint episodes are better known, I prefer the original black and white shows that were available in syndication. When NBC got involved with showing The Saint as a midseaon replacement show, the budget was upped to make them in colour.

The Saint is a durable character who has survived many incarnations, including radio. As a dubious reviewer remarked, in films George Sanders did not originate the character, but he certainly defined it in some half dozen films - and real Saint fans all know it.

Although others have their opinions, I feel Roger Moore fits the character of The Saint much better than he ever did James Bond. And if Bond fans are buying this series because of Moore, they will be happy to see a lot of supporting players from the Bond films as guest stars - including Lois Maxwell (Bond's Miss Moneypenny). The episodes included here, and in Set 2, had previously been available from Columbia House's Subscription library, but it will be good to see them on DVD.

And here's hoping the black and white episodes are soon to follow.

Even Moore Saintly Than 007
As much as Roger Moore was a fantastic James Bond, he was an even better Saint. In fact, he was the best. Moore took the pulp hero, created by Leslie Charteris, to new heights in the 1960's and this DVD collection is a perfect collection for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Roger Moore's portrayl of "Simon Templar" was suave, debonair, and comedic at times (much like The Saint was in the books). In fact, his sarcastic humour with Inspector Teal and other policeman is spot on with the novels. He loved to walk a tightrope between law and crime, but always had an alibi. Moore captures his buccaneering attitude deliciously. Upon watching these episodes, you can see how much of The Saint he put into his Bond role. While he may never have been as violent or ruthless as he was in the books, you really get a sense of the Saint's carefree, adventurous nature.

Finally available in America and in series order (based on when the episodes appeared on American television that is). These collections contain the episodes filmed in color, and they look fantastic. As the series continues to see new releases, perhaps they will include the earlier black and white episodes as well.

Edwin Astley's loungey score has never sounded clearer. As part of the bonus material, you get the original U.S. trailers for each episode and a nice photo gallery. "The History of The Saint" section, is just some text, and hardly a bonus. You'd be better off picking up the Saint film collection (Turner Classic Movies) with a nice 30 minute Saint history documentary if you really want to learn about the famous "Simon Templar." Better yet, go to (website) and learn everything there is to know.

This collection is a must have for any Moore fan. Keep buying them up so that they will release more in America.

Templar, Simon Templar
Roger Moore IS the Saint first and foremost his appearances both before and after only bracket this role. There had been others who played the roles before Moore and after but they are only imitators for those of us who grew up watching this series. Each week we watched waiting for the magical moment when the halo and the lilting theme appeared. With that much nostalgia involved I was a little concerned that this set could not possibly live up to my memories. I was wrong, they are just as good as I remembered. Yes the special effects are not up to today's standards, the 'exotic' locations I remembered as a child are now very obviously stock footage tacked onto scenes shot elsewhere but that doesn't even matter. Once Moore takes the stage he is the Saint, we are in those locations and delighting as he makes fools of the police, foils the villians and saves the day, all withough mussing his perfectly coifed hair.

This set includes the first six color episodes of the series. The episodes are: The Queen's Ransom - set in Monte Carlo; Interlude In Venice - set in Venice (featuring Lois Maxwell - Moneypenny in the Bond films); The Russian Prisoner - set in Geneva; The Reluctant Revolution - set in San Paul, Brazil; The Helpful Pirate - set in Hamburg and the Convenient Monster - set in Scotland.

In spite of the shortcomings mentioned above the shows are enjoyable to those who do not have fond memories of the original airings. What was lacking in special effects what made up for in writing and acting. The stories all have an O'Henry like twist, just when you think it's over or you have solved the problem something else pops up and changes everything. In addition many actors who appeared here went on to other larger roles, so there is the bonus of seeing them 'when'.

I think that anyone who remembers enjoying these shows when they ran on broadcast TV will enjoy they again those who are much younger, ie under 25, may not get so much out of it.

One additional note - these hour long episodes are just over 50 minutes long, not today's 42!

Well done!
Roger Moore is a stud, debonair and chivalrous. Knowing that these are over 30 years adds to the fun. Interesting mysterys that take you around the world still work.

ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Some think the world is made for fun and frolic,
And so do I! And so do I!
Some think it well to be all melancholic,
To pine and sigh; to pine and sigh;
But I, I love to spend my time in singing,
Some joyous song, some joyous song,
To set the air with music bravely ringing
Is far from wrong! Is far from wrong!
Listen, listen, echoes sound afar!
Listen, listen, echoes sound afar!
Funiculi, funicula, funiculi, funicula!
Echoes sound afar, funiculi, funicula!

Ah me! 'tis strange that some should take to sighing,
And like it well! And like it well!
For me, I have not thought it worth the trying,
So cannot tell! So cannot tell!
With laugh, with dance and song the day soon passes
Full soon is gone, full soon is gone,
For mirth was made for joyous lads and lasses
To call their own! To call their own!
Listen, listen, hark the soft guitar!
Listen, listen, hark the soft guitar!
Funiculi, funicula, funiculi, funicula!
Hark the soft guitar, funiculi, funicula! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "Time Enough at Last" (Ep. 8, November 20, 1959) - A bookworm (Burgess Meredith) yearns for more time to read--then a nuclear holocaust leaves him alone in the world with lots of time, plenty to read, and one ironic twist! "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street" (Ep. 22, March 4, 1960) - Inexplicable events cause the residents of quiet Maple Street to erupt into rioting. The residents suspect an alien invasion has occurred. If so, where are the alien monsters? "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" (Ep. 123, October 11, 1963) - A salesman (William Shatner) recovering from a nervous breakdown spots a gremlin on the wing of his plane. When he attempts to alert the others, his nightmare truly begins! "The Odyssey of Flight 33" (Ep. 54, February 24, 1961) - Flight 33 picks up a peculiar tailwind and is blown off course. After apparently correcting the problem, the flight arrives at its destination--a billion years ahead of schedule! ... Read more

Reviews (17)

This is definitely the BEST volume in the DVD collection
No matter how many DVDs they put out with episodes of "The Twilight Zone," they cannot put out one with better episodes that Volume 2. "Time Enougth at Last" is THE quintessential Zone episode, adapted by Rod Serling from Lynn Venable's short story. Burgess Meredith, in what was surely his most recognizable role, plays Henry Bemis, a mild-mannered, myopic bank teller who only wants to read, but can never get away from this shrewish wife and demanding boss. But then Henry has the fortune of being in the bank vault reading a book when the world is destroyed by a nuclear war. Directed by John Brahm, no "Twilight Zone" episode ever backed a more unforgettable ending. "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street" finds neighbors turning on each other as unexplained events fuel their fear that human-looking aliens have infiltrated Maple Street (filed on MGM's "Andy Hardy" street). Claude Atkins and Jack Weston head a strong cast in this classic written by Rod Serling and directed by Ron Winston. "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" stars William Shatner as poor Bob Wilson, who has left a sanatorium only to take a plane flight where a gremlin keeps trying to sabotage the engine. Written by Richard Matheson, who wrote the original short story, "Nightmare" was directed by Richard Donner, who went on to be a film director of some note. "The Odyssey of Flight 33" is the only sub-classic episode on this disc. The story by Serling, directed by Justus Addiss, is of a plane that picks up a freak tail wind that sends it back in time. John Anderson as Captain Farver leads the excellent cast that makes this rather far-fetched idea utterly believable.

There's a man on the wing!
This is a superb compilation of some of the best Twilight Zone episodes ever made.

This DVD includes the following episodes: "Time Enough at Last", "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street", "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet", and "The Odyssey of Flight 33".

"Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" is my favorite episode. William Shatner is a passenger on an airplane who sees an alien on the plane's wing every time he looks out the window. However, he's the only one who sees the alien - every time he yells to the stewardess or other people, the alien disappears. Everytime he sees the alien, he yells "there's a man on the wing! " It is such a great episode - it made William Shatner the star he is today!

Also, be sure to look for Burgess Meredith in "Time Enough At Last" before he was known as "Mickey" from the Rocky movies.

My only complaint is that there are not more episodes on this disk. I don't understand why CBS didn't release the episodes on a season-by-season basis.

One of the Best Twilight Zone DVDs
This second volume of Collection One might be the best of the entire Collection. "Time Enough at Last" and "Oddyssey of Flight 33" features two excellent stories with amazing and unforgettable endings. Another classic is "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet," featuring William Shatner, who plays a man recovering from a nervous break down. His flight with his wife proves to be horrific. "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street" is a classic exploration into social psychology and mob mentality when a gang of residents on a quiet street are convinced that an alien invasion has occurred.

This second volume is well written with wonderful acting by Burgess Meredith and William Shatner. Highly recommended!

another great DVD
Vol 2 had even better episodes that Vol 1.

Time Enough At Last- Loved it! One of my favorite episodes actually. I felt very sorry for the guy. (*****)

Monsters are Due on Maple Street- Another great episode. Very surprising on who the monsters were. (****)

Terror at 20,000 feet- Uh, didn't care too much for this one. I got a little bored watching it actually. A lot of people seem to like this one though. (**)

The Odessy of Flight 33- another great and entertaining one. (***)

Your Next Stop is¿
Besides the TV Plays that you will buy this for, there are some DVD goodies (extras.):
Special "Inside the Twilight Zone" Section Written by Marc Scott Zicree
Biographical info on Rod Sterling
History of the Twilight Zone
Cast information
A season-by Season commentary
They claim to be digitally re-mastered yet there are still a few glitches and snow.
Episode 8 "Time Enough at Last" November 20, 1960

Henry Bemis (Burgess Meredith) has a healthy interest in reading; he is surrounded by people that underestimate its worth. He is conspired against by the bank president and even his wife. He works in a bank and spends his afternoons in the vault catching up on his reading. I will say no more as you and Mr. Bemis are about to enter the Twilight Zone.

Burgess Meredith will be found in several of the Twilight Zone episodes and again as the narrator of the 1983 Twilight Zone movie.

Episode 22 "The Monsters are Due on Maple Street" March 4, 1960

The typical neighbors, like Claude Atkins and Jack Weston, are out doing neighbor things like mowing their lawn. They stop to hear a weird sound and see a strange light. It is assumed to be a weird meteor. All of a sudden the power goes out and nothing works no phones, no cars, nothing. This is the last moment before the real monsters came out.

Episode 123 "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" October 11, 1963

Mr. Wilson (William Shatner) is a salesman that is recovering from a nervous breakdown he had in an airplane. He is on his way down in a propeller commuter plane. You know something is amiss with him as he realizes he is next to the emergency window, over the wing. Of course his psychiatrist, Dr. Martin, would not let him fly home unless he was well. In the middle of an electrical storm, he looks out the window and I will say no more as you are about to enter the darkest part of the Twilight Zone.

This episode will be included in the 1983 movie with John Lithgow playing Mr. Wilson.

Episode 54 "The Odyssey of Flight 33" February 24, 1961

An international Jet flight, Global 33, is heading for Idawiled airport. On the way they get a sensation of great speed and go through some unknown barrier. Captain Farver (John Anderson) looses all external electronic guidance. He goes down for a closer look. I will not say anything more as you have now entered the Twilight Zone.

I wonder if we have a current remake, would Global 33 lose global positioning. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Roger Moore is just great, as "The Saint"...
As I was introduced to "The Saint" via the 60's TV program, I will always associate Roger Moore with the character. He was absolutely perfect for the role, being the right age, and possessing the requisite class, charm, and athleticism. But beyond that, Moore had an air of irreverence that is so essential to the character. "The Saint" was never comfortable with accepting authority. Rules were for others. His life was about living on the edge, taking on all the excitement life had to offer.

The character, the literary creation of Leslie Charteris, has a somewhat nebulous origin. It is said that Simon Templar, motivated by his own sense of justice, took whatever action he deemed necessary, to correct what he perceived were injustices in the world. This usually involved one of the "ungodly" being robbed, or somehow taught a lesson. Somewhere the victim would usually find a note, containing a short message warning them to learn their lesson. Instead of a signature, there would be a drawing of a stick man figure with a halo, the familiar finger pointing "Saint" logo. While Templar was suspected of committing these acts, his guilt was apparently never proved. In eluding his victims and all manner of law enforcement, he achieved a notorious reputation, and the nickname of "The Saint".

"The Saint's" image was cleaned up for television, where he appeared as basically a virtuous character. While his questionable past is often alluded to, specific reference to any criminal activity was avoided. He is presented as a noble figure, to whom committing a criminal act for mere personal financial gain would be simply unthinkable. Crime must not be seen to pay.

"The Saint" does not fit nicely into any particular category, blending the qualities of an adventurer, a detective, and a secret agent. Without a fixed setting, or any regular supporting cast, it falls squarely on Roger Moore to capture and hold the viewers' interest. And he comes through with flying colors, almost single handedly carrying each episode, and maintaining the continuity of the character, no matter what the location, or the situation he finds himself in. This is actually quite an achievement, and one that is easy to overlook, because Moore does it so smoothly.

DVD Sets 1 and 2 contain the program's first color episodes, supposedly presented in the order they were originally broadcast. These collections are a good representation of typical "Saintly" adventures. We find Simon Templar cavorting throughout Europe, and also appearing in Latin America. Being such an adaptable fellow, he becomes involved in adventure in a variety of ways. Part of the fun, is trying to figure out exactly what kind of trouble old Simon has gotten himself into this time.

Favorite episodes from Set 1, are "The Russian Prisoner", with Simon involved in intrigue with the KGB, and "The Convenient Monster", where "Nessie" figures in the conclusion of a story of involving murder and deception. The best from Set 2, would be "Paper Chase" featuring "The Saint" on a rescue mission in East Germany, and "Locate and Destroy", probably the most violent episode in the collection, with Simon on the trail of a ruthless ex-Nazi.

If you are not familiar with this series, you may not find it to be your cup of tea, for "The Saint", like "The Avengers", is something of an acquired taste. If you are a fan, then these sets should be part of your collection, with Set 2 grading out a bit ahead of Set 1. While they may not the best "Saint" episodes, they are the first available on DVD. Picture quality is excellent, colors are true to the original quality, and the images are sharp. A TV series set in a different location each week presents special challenges, and production values are pretty good considering this. The difference between location and studio shots are obvious, but typical for the times. The audio level however, could stand to be cranked up a bit, to match the music level.

One negative is the lack of substantial bonus materials. No printed matter, not even a booklet with a detailed series retrospective. All you get are episode previews, and a few stills. Not much, considering the premium price. This is basically the same minimalist treatment given to "The Avengers". Lacking extensive bonus material, I wish A&E would maximize the medium and package at least four episodes per disc, instead of just three. The studios should remember that the predominant audience for these collections, are the dedicated fans of the program. This is often a niche market, and the faithful really do deserve their best effort.

Finally, one oddity is that actor Ivor Dean, who was wonderful as "Inspector Teal", is listed as being part of the "regular cast" on both sets, but does not appear in any of the 12 episodes. Hopefully we will actually see "Claude Eustace" in future releases.

Give Me Moore Please!!!!
As much as Roger Moore was a fantastic James Bond, he was an even better Saint. In fact, he was the best. Moore took the pulp hero, created by Leslie Charteris, to new heights in the 1960's and this DVD collection is a perfect collection for both longtime fans and newcomers.

Roger Moore's portrayl of "Simon Templar" was suave, debonair, and comedic at times (much like The Saint was in the books). In fact, his sarcastic humour with Inspector Teal and other policeman is spot on with the novels. He loved to walk a tightrope between law and crime, but always had an alibi. Moore captures his buccaneering attitude deliciously. Upon watching these episodes, you can see how much of The Saint he put into his Bond role. While he may never have been as violent or ruthless as he was in the books, you really get a sense of the Saint's carefree, adventurous nature.

Finally available in America, this is the second collection released thusfar, in series order (based on when the episodes appeared on American television that is). Both collections contain the first episodes filmed in color, and they look fantastic.

Edwin Astley's loungey score has never sounded clearer. As part of the bonus material, you get the original U.S. trailers for each episode and a nice photo gallery. "The History of The Saint" section, is just some text, and hardly a bonus. You'd be better off picking up the Saint film collection (Turner Classic Movies) with a nice 30 minute Saint history documentary if you really want to learn about the famous "Simon Templar." Better yet, go to www.saint.org and learn everything there is to know.

This collection is a must have for any Moore fan. Keep buying them up so that they will release more in America.

The one and only
Roger Moore is The Saint to me, and these beautiful A&E DVD's are a great addition to my collection. Watching Roger race around in his gleaming white Volvo 1800 is a joy to behold!

The Saint - Set 2
The Saint is great! We need more quality shows like this to be offered to the public. I watched it all the time when it was offered on the Encore Mystery Channel. When they took it off the air, I haven't watch the Mystery Channel since. I guess that was their choice of programming. Shows like that are worth watching and I hope A&E plans on offering the whole Saint series available on DVD and VHS video tape. I'll buy them all. Maybe A&E can offer the the Saint on their channel and promote to sell the DVD and VHS video tape at the end of each Saint show? What do you think A&E. I wished that you would put back the Rockford Files and Columbo on the air.

Roger is TOO COOL!
Roger Moore is simply fabulous, and his role in The Saint was the perfect warm-up to James Bond! Set 2 is just as good as the first, though some extras would have been nice. Great picture and sound, though, and that's what really matters. Let's hope that A&E release Patrick McGoohan's pre-Prisoner series Danger Man (Secret Agent here in the States) sometime soon! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "Night of the Meek" (Ep. 47, December 23, 1960) - Christmas in the Twilight Zone. Art Carney is a forlorn department store Santa who takes to drinking--only to find himself experiencing the nicest Christmas ever! "The Invaders" (Ep. 51, January 27, 1961) - A flying saucer lands in the attic of an isolated house inhabited by an impoverished woman--who soon becomes panic-stricken as tiny spacemen begin to stalk her! "Nothing in the Dark" (Ep. 81, January 5, 1962) - An old woman has fought with death a thousand times and has always won. But now she finds herself afraid to let a wounded policeman (Robert Redford) in her door for fear he is Mr. Death. Is he? ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Superb performances from great actors in "The Twilight Zone"
Volume 1 of "The Twilight Zone" presents a trio of classic episodes where the performances by the actors are as memorable as the stories with their infamous Twilight Zone twists. "The Invaders" is a tour de force performance by Agnes Moorhead in an episode written by Richard Matheson. Moorhead plays a woman living alone in a farmhouse who finds that a miniature flying saucer has landed on her roof. The woman has to fight against the strange tiny invaders with their advanced technology. But then remember, this is the Twilight Zone. "Night of the Meek," written by Rod Serling, finds poor Henry Corwin (Art Carney), a department store Santa who shows up drunk on Christmas Eve and is fired. Wandering the streets, he discovers a magic bag that can dispense any gift he asks for. Definitely a seasonal message from Serling and directed by Jack Smight, with John Fielder and Burt Mustin in the cast. "Nothing in the Dark," written by George Clayton Johnson, offers Gladys Cooper as Wanda Dunn as an old woman who has barricaded herself in her basement apartment for years, fearing that Mr. Death with kill her with a touch. Wanda knows that Death can take many disguises. But despite her fears, when Harold Beldon, a young policeman is shot outside her door, she drags him inside. Of course, the fact Beldon is played by Robert Redford might have something to do with her letting her guard down. This DVD includes "Inside The Twilight Zone", with information on Rod Serling, a history of the series, reviews of each episode, cast information and a season-by-season commentary. Not a bad first disc, but there is much better to come. However, you will not find a better trio of performances than you find here with Moorhead, Carney and Cooper.

Santa, Twist Endings and more are Just the Beginning
Indelible episodes, NOTHING IN THE DARK and THE INVADERS have to be two of the most viewed stories from "The Twilight Zone." Gladys Cooper and Robert Redford give very credible performances in this story of 'Mister Death' knocking at the door penned by George Clayton Johnson. THE INVADERS is a classic episode in the true sense of "The Twilight Zone." Richard Matheson wrote a memorable story and Agnes Moorehead gave one of the greatest visual acting jobs of all time. Alfred Hitchcock would probably call this episode an example of 'pure cinema.' NIGHT OF THE MEEK is a great Christmas holiday episode. Art Carney plays a drunken department store Santa who comes across a magical Santa's sack that generates gifts for those that are needy. Filmed directly to videotape and written with great warmth by Rod Serling this is one of the best and loved episodes. This is a good cross-section of shows from this series.

Awsome series!
Wow, I just watched these episodes and I was impressed. Very entertaining. I'll do a review for each episode.

Night of the Meek- This is a great Christmas episode, even though it was october when I saw it. (***)

The Invaders- When I first saw this, it really creeped me out. I was even screaming! There was a wonderful twist at the end. (***)

Nothing in the Dark- This is another one that gave me the creeps. Death comes walking up to your door. Probably the best one on the disk. (****)

The first and best of Science Fiction Television
First collection of shows from the 1959 to 1964 TV anthology by Rod Serling, which showcases both great acting and outstanding writing done by both Serling and frequent writer contributors like Richard Matheson and Charles Beaumont. Show put acting and writing ahead of any fancy special effect shots or cheap creature make-up work done (which is so commen on certain shows and films shown on a cable network today that shall remain nameless). Great first edition for anyone who likes the best of what television can offer.

Enter the 5th dimension....
Besides the TV Plays that you will buy this for, there are some DVD goodies (extras.):
Special "Inside the Twilight Zone" Section Written by Marc Scott Zicree
Biographical info on Rod Sterling
History of the Twilight Zone
Cast information
A season-by Season commentary

They claim to be digitally re-mastered yet there are still a few glitches and snow.

Episode 47 "Night of the Meek" December 23, 1961

As with short TV plays there is not real time for a buildup. Art Carney is an out of work person that plays Santa Claus. Because of his disappointment in life he indulges in libations. This leads to his dismissal as a store Santa. I will say not more as you are about to enter the twilight Zone.
Things had to move fast as there was only a half hour to complete the story.

Episode 51 "The Invaders" January 5, 1961

Agnes Moorhead is a woman living alone in an old farmhouse without any conveniences such as electricity. She is preparing supper when she hears a mysterious sound. Something appears to have hit the roof. She goes to investigate. I will say not more as you are about to enter the twilight Zone.
This episode thought well played seems to drag a bit as the woman is spending a lot of time searching around and licking her wounds. She says little (ok nothing) but conveys her part well. See Agnes Moorhead again when she has a lot to say in the movie "Dark Passage."

Episode 81"Nothing in the Dark" January 5, 1962

Long After the movie "Death takes a Holiday", in this episode death (Robert Redford) takes on the appearance of a wounded police officer.
Gladys Cooper plays an old woman afraid of Death. More than the scenario, of which we all know the eventual outcome, is the interaction between the two characters. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Gentleman adventurer Simon Templar has "quite a reputation," as evidenced by these seven "terribly clever" episodes from the classic British '60s TV series The Saint. Wavy-haired Roger Moore is in his element as Templar, who, like a certain double-O agent Moore would later portray, dresses impeccably, has an eye for the ladies, and dispenses his own unique brand of justice. In "Flight Plan," Simon joins the jet set as he foils a plot to steal London's newest weapon, a supersonic aircraft. Donald Sutherland guest stars as a fellow inmate in "Escape Route," in which Simon goes undercover behind bars to root out "the top man" in a deadly escape operation. In "The Persistent Patriots," Simon comes to the aid of the prime minister of a soon-to-be former British colony. The action revs up in "The Fast Women," in which a rivalry between two top female racers spins out of control. "The Death Game" is kinky enough to be an Avengers episode, as Simon joins a group of psychology students recruited as potential assassins. Suitable for framing is "The Art Collectors," a convoluted caper involving priceless da Vinci paintings. "To Kill a Saint" finds Simon in France, where a plot is afoot to spark a vendetta between him and the king of the Parisian underworld. But the highlight of any Saint episode is the devilishly funny prologue, in which, no matter where he is, someone always identifies our hero as "the infamous" Simon Templar, prompting him to cast his eyes heavenward as he is crowned by his signature animated halo. --Donald Liebenson ... Read more

Reviews (2)

The Saint - Set 3 Videocassette review
There seems to be some confusion as to what is featured on this video. "The Saint - Set 3", in videocassette form, contains the following three episodes: "The Angel's Eye", "The Man Who Liked Lions" and "A Better Mouse Trap". While all three of these episodes are excellent, don't look for this video set to contain the same material as the DVD.

The Best so far...
Simon Templar, AKA the "Saint" is back, carrying on as only he can. Of the four boxed DVD sets released so far, this one is probably the one you should not miss. These episodes are from the 1967 season, and this time you get a bit more bang for your buck, as there are seven episodes instead of the six in previous sets. Volume 5 is excellent, probably the best so far. Volume 6, contains a bonus fourth episode, is not bad overall. Here's a quick take on the episodes in this set. These episode ratings are on a scale from one to five (best).

VOLUME 5:

Flight Plan (4)
Simon Templar is back in jolly old England, and immediately leaps into action foiling the attempted kidnapping of Diana Gregory. The young woman's brother, an ex-RAF pilot, is involved in a plot to steal an Osprey, Britain's vertical take-off and landing plane. When the plane is taken, the Saint's mission is to keep it from falling into enemy hands. This exciting, well-written episode is full of action, including the Saint piloting the Osprey.

Escape Route (4)
At long last Claude Eustace! Ivor Dean makes his first appearance on DVD as Inspector Claude Eustace Teal. Realizing the dream of a lifetime, the sour faced detective catches the Saint burgling a safe, and Simon soon finds himself sharing a prison cell with John Wood (Donald Sutherland). Circumstances lead to a daring escape, and the two men find themselves under the control of a ruthless organization that helps criminals to "freedom", for a hefty price. The Saint must succeed in a deadly game of deception. A great episode, with an abrupt ending.

The Persistent Patriots (4)
This one should keep you guessing. The Saint prevents the assassination of Jack Liskard (Edward Woodward), the President of an unnamed African country. Liskard has other troubles too, and enlists Simon's help to retrieve some love letters written to a mistress. What starts out as case of blackmail, gets rough, as Liskard takes a bullet. Who is behind it all? The solution stretches things a bit, but should still surprise.

VOLUME 6:

The Fast Women (2)
There's trouble at the racetrack between rival female drivers, and Simon is right in the middle of it. Sabotage, a sinister bald marksman, and a love triangle are part of this tale. The story however, does not take it to the finish line hard enough to make it a winner.

The Death Game (3)
College students play the "Death Game", where they plan ways to commit make-believe murders. What seems like harmless fun, turns deadly serious, as the game's winners gather in Zurich to be evaluated for their homicidal tendencies. Impersonating one of the players, Simon tries to get to the bottom of things, and winds up being the prey in a human death hunt. Extensive editing was used during the chase scenes in the forest. Roger Moore was present only for the shots in the studio, and was doubled in all the location shots. The result is a little uneven, and not entirely convincing. Watch for examples of doubling in other episodes featuring location work.

The Art Collectors (2)
While in France, the Saint encounters a beautiful woman with three previously unknown Da Vinci paintings for sale. Could it possibly be true? Such a find creates waves in the criminal world, and sharks appear to claim the prize. Simon plays hide and seek with the paintings around the French countryside, resulting in a generous payday for the Saint.

To Kill A Saint (3)
Shots ring out on the streets of Paris, but who wants Templar dead this time? Once again, someone wants to use The Saint as a pawn in a deadly scheme. In a strange twist, Simon is even hired to kill himselt. This episode returns to the harder edge found in Volume 5. Roger Moore was too busy to be present for location shots with the second unit, and so a double was used. In the opening precredit sequence, after shots are fired at the Saint, he runs to his car. You get a quick look at Moore's double as he drives away.

The Saint, Set 3 is a collection with a good variety of stories, with something for most tastes. Volume 5 features episodes with a more of and edge, while Volume 6 is a bit lighter. More of the action is centered in England, and so we see more interplay between the Saint and Inspector Teal. If you liked the first two sets, you will probably like this one even more. Highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Both of the "Treasures" DVD's are great.....
but this one is the very best of the entire collection!

Most often the Twilight Zone DVD's have a "mix" of episodes. One really great one, one or two good ones, and a clunker thrown in for good measure (even Serling himself said there were many TZ episodes that didn't quite make the grade). This one is nothing but pure gold! All three of the episodes on this disc are the most memorable of the series.

A tip to the masses - be aware that the 45 individual TZ dvd's have recently been packaged into "collections" (which are NOT by season as they should have been - but just simply repackaged previously released volumes 1-9 in collection #1, 10-18 in collection #2, etc) that is really the way to go if you are the completist and will be getting them all.

However, if you want to try just a single Twilight Zone DVD, give this one a try and you won't be disappointed.

More Treasures of the Twilight Zone
What Twilight Zone fan wouldn't leap upon the opportunity to own three classic Twilight Zone episodes in their original condition with DVD quality? More Treasures of the Twilight Zone surprisingly managed to surpass the first Treasures in quality and extra features. I was overjoyed to see that included before each of the three episodes (The Masks, The Howling Man, Eye of the Beholder) the original teaser for the episode given at the end of the previous week's episode were included. The only disappointment that came from this DVD is the mistake in credits and reviews for the episodes. In this section they (apparently by accident) show the credits and reviews for the three episodes in the first Treasures of the Twilight Zone and include nothing about the three that are actually on the DVD! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "Steel" (Ep. 122, October 4, 1963) - In the future, only androids are allowed to box. Desperate to raise money, penniless manager Steel Kelly (Lee Marvin) must fight disguised as his own broken-down robot. "A Game of Pool" (Ep. 70, October 13, 1961) - Jesse (Jack Klugman) is a brilliant pool player whose dream of a showdown with the legendary (and dead) Fats Brown (Jonathan Winters) comes true. The stakes: his life. "Walking Distance" (Ep. 5, October 30, 1959) - Martin Sloan (Gig Young) is a frazzled executive who learns that you can't go home again after he steps back in time and meets his mom, his dad--and himself! "Kick the Can" (Ep. 86, February 9, 1962) - Has an old man at Sunnyvale Rest Home discovered a secret to regaining youth? After playing a simple child's game, he and the other residents are rewarded with rejuvenating powers! ... Read more

Reviews (10)

One Good Episode, Three Classic Ones
Vol. 3 of the Twilight Zone DVD series is one in which every episode is a winner. The worst of the four, "Steel," is a very good tale of what men think they can do themselves to bring themselves out of a difficult situation. "Kick the Can" is a touching episode that makes us reflect on fleeting youth and the idea that you are only as old as you feel. "A Game of Pool" is an example of superb acting. Jack Klugman and Jonathan Winters deliver more tension and excitement than any current television drama. Finally, "Walking Distance" is a brilliant look at trying to recapture youth and going home again.

On most other Zone DVDs, buyers are forced to stomach at least one lousy episode along with their favorites. This disc is an exception. Sure, the extras are not very "extra," but for your money, Vol. 3 contains some of the best Twilight Zone episodes on one disc.

Good acting but Volume 2 is better
This third volume of Collection One is not as impressive as Volume 2, but still features great writing and acting. "Steel" is a futuristic episode where humans are not permitted to box, but androids are. In "A Game of Pool," a poolplayer gets his wish to play the best pool player he knows. In "Walking Distance," an executive decides to walk to his old neighborhood where he learns that nothing has changed. "Kick the Can" is the final episode and features a group of residents at a seniors' home. One of them goes on a quest to regain his youth.

While Volume 3 has some fine acting and writing, the stories themselves are not Rod Serling's best work. Nonetheless, this DVD is still a good buy for any Twilight Zone fan.

Great DVD
I liked most of the episodes on this DVD.

Steel- Didn't like this one too much. I found it kind of boring. Maybe it's because I'm a girl and not really into boxing. (*)

Game of Pool- This was a good one. It kept my interest. (****)

Kick the Can- Another good one. I found it to be very sweet. (***)

Walking Distance- Wow, this was a good episode. Something about it nearly brought tears to my eyes. (*****)

If you can only buy one.....
then make it this one!

"Walking Distance" is probably one of the best 30 minutes of television ever filmed. Truly one of the very best episodes - and on most any TZ fans top 5 list.

The other episodes are not really great ones, but are also very entertaining.

'Walking Distance' and 'Kick the Can'
[a] 'Walking Distance' [Rod Serling's personal favourite episode - and mine too!] is an emotionally devastating and engrossing story of a disillusioned man who wanted to go back to his 'wonderful' childhood. Own it at any cost and watch it every few months for the rest of your life!!! The music was composed by Bernard Hermann who also did such fantastic scores for the films 'Vertigo' and 'Taxi Driver.'
[url] viewer rating 8.09/10

[b] 'Kick the Can' great performances and a beautiful story.

The remaining two episodes are not too bad and you may watch them once a year or so:
[c] 'A Game of Pool'
[d] 'Steel'

'Next stop, the Twilight Zone!' ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "The Dummy" (Ep. 98, May 4, 1962) - A ventriloquist (Cliff Robertson) is convinced that his dummy, Willie, is alive and evil. He makes plans for a new act with a new dummy. Plans that Willie does not support! "The Fever" (Ep. 17, January 29, 1960) - Tight-fisted Franklin Gibbs is not pleased when his wife wins a trip for two to Las Vegas. But things change when he falls under the spell of a slot machine that calls his name. "Living Doll" (Ep. 126, November 1, 1963) - Erich (Telly Savalas) is displeased when his wife buys an expensive doll for his step-daughter. He becomes even more displeased when the doll tells him it doesn't like him! "The After Hours" (Ep. 34, June 10, 1960) - A woman (Anne Francis) discovers that the floor of a department store, on which she bought a gold thimble, doesn't exist--and that her "saleslady" is really a mannequin! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

One of the very best Volumes in "The Twilight Zone" series!
When I looked at the lengthy list of "Twilight Zone" DVD volumes this one stuck out more than any of the others. In my opion, it has three of the most outrageously entertaining(yet still quite frightening)episodes "The Twilight Zone" has ever made. "The After Hours" is about Marsha White(Anne Francis), a simple woman who is merely looking for a gold thimble in a department store. However, when she steps into the elevator, she is guided to the 9th floor of the the 8 story building! On this supposed floor she meets odd people who turn out to be even odder when(on one of the regular floors)she sees on of them..........in manicane form! This is one of my favorite episodes of "The Twilight Zone"! Partly because of the completely unexpected ending. "Living Doll" is another shocker! Erich Sleater is a man who feels that his step-daughter is spoiled with too many dolls. So, you can imagine how he feels when his wife and daughter come home with an extremly expensive doll! You can also only imagine how he feels when(after everyone leaves the room)the doll starts saying things like "I hate you!" & "I'm going to kill you!". This is another classic that had me biting my nails to the very end of the show. I also enjoy Rod Sterling's ending words that seem to make the story feel a little too realistic. "The Dummy" is about a ventrilogoust that has an evil Dummy named Willie! Everyone thinks he's crazy but somehow he knows he's not. The only way to stop the crazieness is to get a new dummy, which the man does. However, Willie does not accept the replacement! This is a great one too but the ending doesn't really make sense. "The Fever" is by far the worst episode on the disk. It's about a man who doesn't enjoy gambling at all but while in Las Vegas a slot machine calls his name and then it seems he can never stop! The story was a little too limited for my liking and too unreal. After all, it's weird than the guy just started gambling after he hated it. Again, this is one of the best Volumes in the entire "Twilight Zone" set!

Three good, one bad episode
I did not care for "The Fever", as I found it to have bad acting, and it was implausible - the husband was so anti-gambling, yet, agrees to go with his wife to Las Vegas for a short vacation. Why else go there?

The other eps were good, with well-done TZ material.

In "Dummy", ventriloquist Cliff Robertson and his side-kick change places.

In "The After Hours", Anne Francis has a hard time finding good assistance in a department store.

In "Living Doll", Telly Savalas argues with a back-talking doll.

This is the best of all the Twilight Zone Volumes
For those of you who are being selective in which Twilight Zone volumes you're buying; and, you plan on watching this DVD more than once, this is the best. This volume includes (1) Living Doll (Talking Tina) with Telly Savales, (2) The Fever (a taunting slot machine), (3) The After Hours, with Anne Francis, who is left in a department store after the store closes and all the people have left. (4) The Dummy (a ventriloquist). The first 3 are great, the Dummy is OK, but again the first 3 are worth the cost alone. Also, the fact that you don't have those annoying commercials anymore makes watching Twilight Zone that much better.

Some of the very Best Episodes
THE FEVER from the First season aired on January 29, 1960 and was written by Rod Serling. Everett Sloane is brilliant as a married man who continually lectures his wife on the pitfalls of gambling after winning a trip to Las Vegas. Goaded into it Sloane puts a coin into a slot machine, wins and the cycle begins. This is an interesting episode, not necessarily against gambling but one that addresses the nature of obsession and the lengths of self-destruction that it can lead to. It also addresses a familiar TWILIGHT ZONE theme about man and his confrontation with the machines that he creates. THE DUMMY from the Third season aired on May 4, 1962 and was written by Rod Serling. Cliff Robertson plays a down-and-out ventriloquist who has dilutions that his mannequin may be getting the better of him. This is an interesting study into the mind of man and the manmade with a denouement that is riveting. THE AFTER HOURS remains just as fresh and effective as when it was first aired on June 10, 1960 and its lingering haunting imagery remains engraved into one's subconscious. Who can ever forget Anne Francis as Marsha. Her impeccable performance and exquisite face are indelible. "Marsha" that very name and the way it was repeated over and over was so eerily unsettling sending chills down one's spine. This episode when compared to WALKING DISTANCE demonstrates the great versatility of Rod Serling as a writer. WALKING DISTANCE is probably the best prose that Serling ever penned where every bit of dialogue was so heartfelt and moving. In THE AFTER HOURS Serling gives us a more visual tale where the storytelling is more dependent on the images. Serling gives us a story of two strikingly opposite worlds that co-exist within a department store. The vivid contrast and the realistic depiction of those two worlds is at the core of this story that has a strange tinge of melancholy about it. Thanks to effective lighting, production design, photography, Douglas Heyes' Direction and impeccable acting it succeeds on all levels and is one of the definitive episodes of the series. Your heart kind of goes out for Telly Savalas in LIVING DOLL. As much of a no-good creep of a stepfather Savalas is, you just gotta feel bad for this guy as he gets outdone by a doll, Talky Tina. The doll is almost as evil as he is and this becomes very evident in the final scene at the bottom of the living room staircase. A lot of the viewers' ambiguous feelings are the result of Bermard Herrmann's innovative score. It has a childlike quality that taunts and teases both Telly Savalas and the viewer. This is an excellent episode written by Charles Beaumont from the Fifth season and is one of the best and most memorable from the entire series. This is an excellent volume.

!!DOLLS GONE WILD!!
To the best of my knowledge there's no specific theme to any of the Twilight Zone DVD's, but this one does, and it's --DOLLS GONE WILD!
The first episode contains the classic ventriloquist corrupted by his dummy tale ("Magic", "Dead of Night"). It stars Cliff Robertson, who looks like a puppet to begin with.
The third episode is the legendary Talking Tina story where she tells Telly "Kojak" Savalas how she's going to kill him, and accomplishes the deed.
The final episode stars Anne "Honey West" Francis as a girl trapped in a department store who gets an earful from a bunch of creepy, chatty mannequins.
The animated menu with the TZ title eyeball is classic TZ mind-bending psycho-delia. The episodes themselves are as clean as early 60's televideo can get. The sound quality ranges from good to muddy, but overall the content of these shows make up for their technical shortcomings.
Tell 'em Jerry Mahoney sent you. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Finally!About time
I bought the entire set from Australia, not knowing they were not "region free" as stated.Been watching them on my PC. Fabulous!What can one say about Roger Moore that hasn't been said.Can't wait to finally watch them on my TV!! ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "Nick of Time" (Ep. 43, November 18, 1960) - A superstitious newlywed (William Shatner) becomes obsessed by a penny fortune-telling machine. But are his pennies revealing his future--or determining it? "The Prime Mover" (Ep. 57, March 24, 1961) - Ace Larsen has discovered that his business partner (Buddy Ebsen) can move things with his mind! They set out for Las Vegas and win--for a while anyway. "It's a Good Life" (Ep. 73, November 3, 1961) - He knows your every thought, can feel your every emotion. He can eliminate all you hold dear. Who is he? A 6 year old boy (Billy Mumy) from Peaksville, Ohio! "The Mind and the Matter" (Ep. 63, May 12, 1961) - A book on the power of thought enables an irritable worker (Shelley Berman) to re-create the world exactly as he wants it. But what he wants and what he gets are two different things! ... Read more

Reviews (3)

An Excellently Conceived Volume
THE PRIME MOVER from the Second season aired on March 24, 1961 and was written by Charles Beaumont and is an episode that deserves repeated viewing. Dane Clark and Buddy Ebsen operate a small diner. When Clark discovers that Ebsen has telekinetic powers he drags him off to Vegas to make a killing at the casinos. This is a good-natured episode as opposed to THE FEVER on the allure and pitfalls of gambling. What really makes this episode so repeatedly viewable are the performances of Dane Clark and Buddy Ebsen. It's like water and oil. Clark is the "fly by the seat of your pants - happy go lucky guy" who will try anything for a dime. Ebsen stands for reason and patients. Ultimately we learn to use the tools we are given with a sense of responsibility tempered with passion. This is an excellently conceived and delivered episode. IT'S A GOOD LIFE from the Third season aired on November 3, 1961. It was written by Rod Serling and is one of the most famous episodes of the series. Serling's introduction, which leads up to Billy Mumy's wide-eyed stare into the camera, is an indelible and disturbing image. The jack-in-the-box scene is also unforgettable and equally disturbing. Even Serling's dialogue is so memorable and conjures up images of fear. Just the mention of "the cornfield" sends chills down the back. Anyone who has seen this episodes knows what I am referring to. Anyone who has not must see it! The excellent cast includes John Larch, Cloris Leachman, Tom Hatcher and we must not forget Billy Mumy. Director Jim Sheldon really captured the fear and terror of the captive inhabitants of this rural community. NICK OF TIME from the Second season aired on November 18, 1960 and was written by Richard Matheson. Traveling newlyweds William Shatner and Patricia Breslin stop in a luncheonette while their car is being repaired. While in a booth an ever-confident Shatner puts a coin into a fortune-telling machine adorned with the bobbling head of a smiling plastic devil. Each question and answer begins to make Shatner question his fate to the point that he becomes unraveled about his future. Thematically this is similar to THE FEVER where just one more coin in the machine may give you solace. This is a fascinating episode that bears repeated viewing just to observe the ease at which one can be drawn in. However, the denouement makes the morality of the story clear. THE MIND AND THE MATTER directed by Buzz Kulik from the Second season aired on May 12, 1961 and was written by Rod Serling. Clerk, Shelly Berman eliminates people from the face of the earth by using the power of thought that he mastered from a book given to him. He soon repopulates the planet with people who look exactly like him with disconcerting results. Though lighthearted in nature this episode attempts to reveal life as others view each of us. Be careful of what you wish for. Volume 9 is a good well-balanced representation of THE TWILIGHT ZONE.

The power of the human mind unleashed in the Twilight Zone
The power of the human mind comes into play in the four episodes included on Vlume 9 of "The Twilight Zone" DVD Series. First up is Richard Matheson's "Nick of Time," which stars William Shatner and Patricia Breslin as newly weds Don and Pat Carter. The honeymooners are waiting for their car to be repaired in Ridgeview, Ohio when the superstitious Don becomes obsessed with a tabel top fortune-telling machine that dispense little cards answering yes or no questions. A classic "Twilight Zone" episode with a wonderful performance from a rather restrained Shatner. Buddy Ebsen stars as Jimbo Cobb in "The Prime Mover," written by Charles Beaumont and based on an unpublished story by George Clayton Johnson. Jimbo has psychokinetic power and when his friend compulsive gambler Ace Larsen (Dane Clark) learns about this, he takes Jimbo to Las Vegas to make big bucks. But while Ace is getting Jimbo to manipulate the dice in the craps game, he is blowing off his girlfriend Kitty (Christine White). That is when Jimbo blows a fuse. A nice little story, one of the few to actually show some heart in the Zone. "It's a Good Life," adapted by Rod Serling from Jerome Bixy's short story, is one of the most horrifying Zone episodes and features Billy Mumy as Anthony Fremont, the monster who is terrorizing Peaksvillle, Ohio. You see, Anthony can not only read minds, he has enormous power and no restraints. That is why all the adults in town always tell him, whether he turns someone into a huge jack-in-the-box or kills the crops by making it snow, "That's a good thing you did." "It's a Good Life" is an absolute classic that was unnecessarily redone in "Twilight Zone--the Movie," which only proved that imagination is more terrifying than special effects. Finally, in "The Mind and the Matter," also written by Serling, Archibald Beechcroft (Shelley Berman), reads a book on mind power that allows him to do whatever he wants just by concentrating hard enough. Unfortunately, what Archibald wants to do is make every person on Earth disappear. While it has some nice moments, this is an average episode at best. But this volume clearly has two of the greatest Zone episodes ever, so it is a must have for your collection.

Behold the power of the mind¿ only at the Twilight Zone.
This is one of the few DVD's in the collection that you could actually consider conceptual: somehow all episodes deal with the powers of the mind. Who wants to know the future? William Shatner's character does, but does he realizes the price? Find out in "Nick of Time" (Season 2). "The Prime Mover" (Season 2), is about telekinesis at the service of a gambler... and that equals risky business. "It's a Good Life" (Season 3), stars a very young Billy Mummy with incredible and dangerous powers. Finally "The Mind and the Matter" (Season 2) shows a guy how the power of thought can create his perfect world. ... Read more

Description

Episodes: "Third from the Sun" (Ep. 14, January 8, 1960) - With all-out nuclear war about to ignite, William Sturka (Fritz Weaver) and a friend steal an experimental spaceship, load their families, and set out for an unknown planet. "The Shelter" (Ep. 68, September 29, 1961) - When a UFO invasion appears imminent, several suburban friends and neighbors are reduced to selfish, conniving animals in a fight over one family's bomb shelter. "To Serve Man" (Ep. 89, March 2, 1962) - The Kanamits, 9 foot tall aliens, arrive on Earth with one lofty goal: To Serve Man. They end war. They end famine. Theymake the military wonder: What's the catch? "The Fugitive" (Ep. 90, March 9, 1962) - Old Ben is a fugitive from outer space with a heart of gold. He risks it all to help a crippled little girl--without fear that alien pursuers from his home planet will find him! ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Great DVD
Third From the Sun- I really wanted to like this episode... but my dad just had to blab the ending! Oh well it was good. (****)

The Shelter- I liked it, but it kind of reminded me of Monsters are Due on Maple Street. (***)

To Serve Man- Wow, a great episode. The end really freaked me out. Probably my favorite episode. There are only a few episodes I'll give five stars, the others being "Time Enough at Last" and "Walking Distance" (I've only watched so far to this volume.) (*****)

The Fugitive- many people seem to not like this episode. I thought it was cute. It calmed me down after watching "To Serve Man" (***)

Mostly so-so
"To Serve Man" is a favorite of mine, though it is kind of funny to see Richard Kiel in costume with the big head - and he never speaks.

"Third From the Sun" has a neat twist, but is otherwise not special. I like Fritz Weaver in almost everything, especially the movie "Fail Safe".

"The Shelter" is a formulaic plot that seems well-used. This was probably much better when it was first shown, because of the political time-frame.

"The Fugitive" is pretty light and a little fluffy for my taste, almost like Disney wrote it.

I think there are better collections. I like #7.

Amazing!!!
Volume 8 of the twilight zone dvd series is one of the best. Four great episodes, cool special features, and it's not that expensive. Let's start with Third From the Sun. William Sturka, played by Fritz Weaver, is a scientist. A fellow scientist, Carling, tells him that th large nucular war that is about to happen will happen in 48 hours. So, William and a friend get ther familes steal a spacecraft and fly into space. A nice twist of an ending but I shouldn't tell you it. Next, The Shelter. When it seems there is going to be a alien invasion a neighborhood of friends get crazy over one family's bomb shelter. Next, To Serve Man. This is one of the Twilight Zone shows that are great, chilling, and have a shocking twist at the end. It all starts with aliens landing on earth. One of the aliens, played by my faviorite actor Richard Kiel tells everyone thre purpose on earth is to serve man. The twist comes when they find out that they misinterpretated the phrase to serve man. Finally, The Fugitive. This one is very awesome but very confusing and you have to see it for your self. ...

"It's a Cookbook!"
This eighth installment in the Twilight Zone DVD collection is all about To Serve Man, as far as I'm concerned. That is the episode that I most remember from when I watched this series as a kid (not in the sixties, I saw the repeats and the annual marathon on the Sci-Fi Channel). I remember that those tall aliens scared the cr*p out of me! I used to "see" them in my room while lying in bed at night (which sucked if I had to go to the bathroom, seeing as I was too scared to move). And yet, this was always my favorite episode. The plot is just so cool! Aliens come to Earth to "help" humans, they teach us to efficient ways to farm and things like that. They even take some of us back to their home planet (as dinner guests perhaps?-ha ha). A couple of U.S. code breakers get a hold of one of the aliens' books and try to crack the code. They figure out the title "To Serve Man" (which they naturally assume means to help man, since that's what the aliens appear to be doing), but can't figure out the rest. Until one of them decides to go on one of the many trips to the aliens' home planet. Just as he's getting on the spaceship, his partner figures out the meaning of the book... God! Now that is television!
Oh yeah, the rest of the episodes are great(as Twilight Zones episodes all tend to be). "Shelter" is another one that I can remember watching as a kid. It's about this family who obviously has a bomb shelter, and when a UFO invasion seems eminent, the whole neighborhood is fighting to get in. (This was also spoofed by the Simpson's.) The other two are also very good and definitely deserve a place in this collection, but aren't "classics".
The DVD is great, too. The picture is of course great, but it also has a cool extra. It has commentary on each season, information on the brilliant Rod Serling, and reviews of each episode.
If you like these Twilight Zone collections, I suggest that you also get the movie Requiem for a Heavyweight. It was written by Rod Serling and stars TZ regular Jack Klugman and Jackie Gleason, and is about a washed up boxer.

Aliens and the end of the world are offered up from the Zone
Aliens abound in the first pair of episodes of "The Twilight Zone" on Volume 8 in this DVD series. "The Fugitive," written by Charles Beaumont, features J. Pat O'Malley as Old Ben, an alien who befriends a lovely little girl named Jenny (Susan Gordon). "To Serve Man," adapted by Rod Serling from Damon Knight's short story, is one of the most famous Zone episodes with its "Solyvent Green" ending. A Kanamit (Richard Kiel) has come to earth to create a golden age with the advanced technology of his race. Michael Chambers (Lloyd Bochner), a government decoding expert, learns to learn the true meaning of the title of the book left by the Kanamit. In both of this episodes we learn appearances can be deceptive.

The second set of episodes focuses on the end of the world (almost). "Third from the Sun." adapted by Serling from Richard Matheson's short story, tells of scientist William Sturka (Fritz Weaver), who is convinced the world is about to end in a nuclear war. Along with test pilot Jerry Riden (Joe Maross), they escape with their families to a new planet. My favorite, and the best episode on the disc, is "The Shelter." This is one of Serling's "preachy" scripts where he hits the mark perfectly. The neighborhood is gathering for a surprise party for Doc Stockton (Larry Gates), when the radio announces radar has detected what appears to be incoming missiles. Doc, his wife and young son go to the shelter he has built in his basement. His unprepared neighbors beg to be let it, but there is not enough room or supplies. That is when things get ugly. Some people consider "The Shelter" to be melodramatic, but I always found it rather chilling. So three of the episode included her are well above average, making this one of the better volumes in "The Twilight Zone" DVD series. ... Read more

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Three episodes dealing with dreams, with two excellent forays into Zone-ishness and one clunker. Also on the disc are special hidden zonesthat contain the isolated music score for each program and a few of the show's original ads.

"A Stop at Willoughby"
"A Stop at Willoughby" is Rod Serling in top form, using one of his favorite themes of escaping to a simpler time. James Daly is a businessman frazzled to the breaking point by an insensitive, demanding wife and a blubbery plutocrat of a boss who importunes him to "Push! Push! Push!" On the train ride home, he begins to dream of an idyllic town called Willoughby, not on the map or train schedule, but perhaps more than just thestuff of imaginings. Ah, Willoughby! Still relevant after all these years.

"Twenty-Two"
"Twenty-Two" is one of the show's six episodes shot on videotape, but still achieves a rare degree of eeriness due to its strong concept and acting. Barbara Nichols stars as a stripper who's checked into a hospital with nervous exhaustion, where she begins having precognitive dreams aboutdeadly doings in the hospital's basement, an exotic nurse leading her there with the foreboding phrase, "Room for one more, honey."

"I Dream of Genie"
"I Dream of Genie" shows the strain of TZ's change from half-hour tofull-hour format. A nebbish accountant (Howard Morris) acquires a magical lamp whose genie grants him one wish. The only highlight of this not-too-funny humoresque is the genie, played by veteran character actor Jack Albertson in a brief cameo, smoking a fat cigar and cracking wise. All else is drawn-out Walter Mitty-style fantasy sequences of said nebbish imagining the results of his prospective wish. Oh, and that signpost up ahead? Boredom. --Jim Gay ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Five stars for "stop at willoughby" and "twenty - two"
Although I think that the first installment on this dvd is an absolutely fabulous episode, "twenty-two" is without a doubt my all time favorite episode of twilight zone. The line "room for one more, honey" has become a family catch phrase. This episode really achieves that eerie quality and the suspense that you come to enjoy from the better examples of the twilight zone, rivaled only by such episodes as "the after hours" and "to serve man". And the repetitive actions that the stripper goes through still don't prepare you for the final amazing twist at the end. I recommend that everyone see this, or you're not a real TZ fan!

Five stars for Willoughby alone
Maybe it's because I AM in the advertising business. Maybe it's because I'm a nostalgic romantic who yearns for the "simpler days" of a hundred years ago (which is why I enjoyed Jack Finney's "Time and Again" novel so much). Maybe it's just because I enjoy Rod Serling's writing s