The Cisco Kid: Hypnotist Murder

The Cisco Kid: Hypnotist Murder

Originally broadcast in first-run syndication on Tuesday, December 25, 1951.

Plot: Mysticism and greed collide as Cisco and Pancho try to uncover the mystery behind the attempted murder of a rich landowner by his son.

Analysis: Wow, what a plot.

No, seriously, this is a good one.

This is a really excellent slow burn of an episode. Starts with a few laughs, but once the plot clicks into gear, it's a really enjoyable ride that leaves you guessing right up until the end how it will resolve itself in the end. Cisco does a credible job handling it, but I almost wish this same plot were in an hour long episode to give it more time. Ah well.

A brief word, if I may, on our cast. This episode we have two guest stars of note. First off is Marsha Jones, who plays Blanche. Better known as Marsha Mae Jones, she got her start playing second fiddle to Shirley Temple in The Little Princess and Heidi. Now, graduated to adult roles, she has got a career of bit television parts ahead of her stretching into the 1980s, so we will be seeing more of her in time. Second we have Denver Pyle, playing the knife throwing Professor Jerry. This is his first television acting gig, but it is far, far from his last, as he will be a staple in Westerns and other roles in time to come. We too will be seeing more of him in times to come.

The Bottom Line: While I wish for just a bit more, I'm pretty content with what we got. This is a fun little mystery that is worth a watch if you care to track it down, just need a tolerance for Pancho's antics. As always, these episodes were filmed in color, but broadcast in black and white until the 1960s. To recreate that original experience, turn the color down on your screen.

Hypnotist Murder can be found with nineteen other episodes in Collection 3 of The Cisco Kid (http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Kid-Collection-3/dp/B00024JAL4/ref=sr_1_9?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405731621&sr=1-9&keywords=the+cisco+kid). It is also included with 34 other episodes of The Cisco Kid in a best of collection if you are budget minded (http://www.amazon.com/Best-Cisco-Kid-35-Episodes/dp/B001072DFM/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405731621&sr=1-1&keywords=the+cisco+kid). It is also available for streaming on Hulu Plus.

Next time... I have a surprise in store. I've been itching to get a good classic Western under my belt and we just may have one. Next week, return with us now, to those thrilling days of yesteryear...

I Love Lucy: Drafted

I Love Lucy: Drafted

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, December 24, 1951 at 9 PM Eastern.

Plot: When Lucy spies a letter to Ricky from the War Department, there is only one conclusion. When Ricky discovers Lucy is upset and knitting all the time, there is only one conclusion and we're off to the races.

Analysis: This episode comes at an interesting time for the blog. I'm actually working on a supplemental article to wrap up the 1951 year and the episode actually sneak previews it a bit - while Lucy and Ricky are making jokes about the possibility of being drafted into the Army, the reality was there was still drafting going on and American soldiers were fighting and dying in places like Inchon and Seoul on the Korean peninsula. I'll talk more about the Korean conflict later, but as far as the episode goes, it's nice to see that something that was quite serious at the time can still be made a bit of fun of.

The episode is also of note as the tag at the end of the episode is our first episodic reference to the Christmas season. The tag will take on a life of it's own in the future, but for now, a nice reminder of the season on Christmas Eve, 1951.

The Bottom Line: Overall, the episode is entertaining and good for a smile. The tag is a bit saccharine, but hey, who doesn't like a reminder of the holiday season, even if we are not in the season? If you find it on or it's in your library, give it a watch.

Drafted is in multiple I Love Lucy collections now. First is volume 3 of Season One, along with three other episodes (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Season-One-Vol/dp/B00006DXXU/ref=sr_1_8?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405725532&sr=1-8&keywords=i+love+Lucy+season+1+volume+3). Next is the complete Season One volume set where it is included with all thirty-five episodes of the first season (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Season-1/dp/B008KZX7W0/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405725749&sr=1-1&keywords=i+love+lucy+season+1). For the true I Love Lucy fan who must have it all, there is the Complete Series set (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Complete/dp/B000TGJ8B2/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405725929&sr=1-1&keywords=i+love+lucy+complete+series+box+set). And finally, for the Blu-Ray fans, the first season is out with two variations of the show - original "night of showing" presentation with the original openings, closing and commercials and syndicated "satin heart" opening and closing (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Ultimate-Season-Blu-ray/dp/B00H5NY6CI/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405726075&sr=1-1&keywords=i+love+lucy). Oh and Drafted is also available for viewing on Hulu Plus.

Next time, another ride with The Cisco Kid.

Tales of Tomorrow: The Invader

Tales of Tomorrow: The Invader

Originally broadcast on ABC on Friday, December 21, 1951 at 9:30 PM Eastern Time.

Plot: An estranged scientist, his son and the son's girlfriend stumble upon something otherworldly at sea that threatens all of them.

Analysis: This is one of the unique cases where the cast is more interesting than the product. But, first things first, the episode. It starts with an intriguing first act, building up the character drama and suspense... and then everything feels rushed to a conclusion that is ultimately not very satisfying. Does not help that most of the last act is done with the lights off and your imagination is left to fill in the blanks. In the end, it's a good start done in by the limitations of time and technology.

Now, our players. First off, the girlfriend is played by Eva Gabor, quite possibly the biggest name outside of I Love Lucy we have stumbled across so far. We're actually catching her quite early in her career as most everything she had done up to this point was bit parts on television or uncredited roles in movies. Rest assured, this will not last long as we will see her again in about a decade in television time in the role she is probably best remembered for. We will catch up with her then. For this role, she's not bad, given enough to move the plot along and be believable.

Next, we have the son Roy played by William Eythe. Eythe is probably best known for his roles in the movies The Song of Bernadette and The Ox-Bow Incident. Sadly, we are catching him at the end of his career as he will die in 1957 at the age of 38. He is worth noting for another reason - Eythe was also one of the actors unfortunately trapped in the celluloid closet of the times. It is worth remembering that being a Communist and being gay at the time was practically synonymous, both viewed as subversive threats to the American way of life. As for his role here, he does just fine, playing the guy under pressure to be what his father wants while he needs to prove he is his own man. His character shift in the second act may be predictable, but he pulls it off well.

Finally, we have another character actor, one with a very long road ahead of him. Chandler the diver is played by Salem Ludwig. Ludwig has more bit parts in television and movies ahead of him well into the past decade, so I will be more than happy to acknowledge him as the roles accumulate over time. For now, he is credible as a bullying character in the scenes we see him in.

The Bottom Line: In sum, what do we have here? It's passable, especially with the character building in the first act, but the second act practically torpedoes everything as we skid into the predictable. Got to give them credit for at least trying with the make up effects though, even if they are ultimately not so impressive. We do also see some examples of the limitations of live television in the 1950s as we have a lot of spliced in stock footage and scenes played in the dark. Overall, it is worth a watch just for the credible efforts the actors give the script.

The Invader is included with eleven other episodes on Collection Two of Tales of Tomorrow (http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Tomorrow-Collection-Leslie-Nielsen/dp/B000BCKFXE/ref=sr_1_2?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405118569&sr=1-2&keywords=tales+of+tomorrow). It can also be found streaming on Hulu Plus.

Next time, we're back to loving Lucy.

The Cisco Kid: Carrier Pigeon

The Cisco Kid: Carrier Pigeon

Originally broadcast on Tuesday, December 18, 1951 in first-run syndication.

Plot: Cisco and Pancho unravel the ingenious plot behind the theft of a diamond necklace with the help of a girl insurance investigator.

Analysis: One must remember here that the plots written for syndication are rarely going to be as strong or well constructed as network or sponsored programming. As a result, while the plot here is actually really interesting, it seems done in quickly by time constraints. We have an edit about midway through the episode that has me wondering how the crooks figured out so fast that they were in trouble as well.

Visually, to recreate the original 1951 broadcast, you will need to turn the color off on your set as the show was broadcast in color, but with few color sets available as yet, most of the United States saw Cisco in black and white. There are occasionally vertical lines in a few close ups, but otherwise the show is tolerable.

It is worth commenting, if I have not before, that while Cisco was originally put into syndication by ZIV Productions, what we are seeing is another distribution into syndication after it originally aired. This time the distributor is Walter Schwimmer Productions, which would date the print to sometime in the 1960s. This may also explain both the slightly diminished quality and the occasional additional edit.

The Bottom Line: I have to admit, the episode is a bit of a disappointment. The plot is there and it's a good one, but either time or budget doomed this episode to mediocrity. Even a last minute curve ball at the end cannot really save the episode from being just okay. In the end, if I am pushed, it's OK to watch if you happen to have it on, but not something to go out of your way for.
Carrier Pigeon is included on Collection 3 of The Cisco Kid with nineteen other episodes of the series (http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Kid-Collection-3/dp/B00024JAL4/ref=sr_1_8?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405113745&sr=1-8&keywords=the+cisco+kid). If you are on a budget, it is also packaged in with thirty-four episodes of the show in The Best of The Cisco Kid (http://www.amazon.com/Best-Cisco-Kid-35-Episodes/dp/B001072DFM/ref=sr_1_1?s=movies-tv&ie=UTF8&qid=1405113745&sr=1-1&keywords=the+cisco+kid). Finally, the episode is also available for streaming on Hulu Plus.

Next time, we return to future-past with another Tale of Tomorrow.

We have a winner!

So, with the polls closed, we have a winner in our reader interest poll. And I must say, the results are really fascinating to me. So, in addition to announcing, I'll analyze and announce my plans based on the poll. We did have a few people who voted more than one choice, which honestly did not impact the vote. The winner still won, pretty commandingly. All it did was tie second place really, if you added second choices to the total.

So, I did. Let's get to the results, from last to first.

In last place, with no votes, was the Cavalcade of Stars: Honeymooners segments. I admit some surprise here, given I know the Honeymooners have their fans. But, apparently, right now, the interest is not there. Or at least, people wanted to see other shows reviewed more. So be it.

In fourth place, with one vote, was Kukla, Fran and Ollie. This one is not a huge shock, since it is a kid's show and pretty unknown outside of 50s and 60s television fans.

There is no third place due to a tie for second place.

In second place, tied with two votes each, is The Gene Autry Show and Howdy Doody. I would have thought Autry would have gotten second outright or done stronger since I have reviewed it before. Then again, those Autry reviews never cracked more than 20 views a page. Might be a message in that somewhere. I still like the show fine and may come back to it, but again, depends on interest. As for Howdy Doody, he clearly has name recognition and he's a pretty big part of television history, but I think it's that a kid's show has hurt it in this round.

And finally, and rather commandingly, we have our winner.

With nine votes, the winner is Dragnet (1950s).

Dragnet never trailed this poll. From the day I launched the poll, it lead and just left everyone in it's wake. Even when the poll was expanded to other locations due to Google sign ups being needed to post responses to the poll, it was Dragnet all the way.

I am actually surprisingly delighted by the results. I was not sure if there was interest based on only 20 to 25 episodes available out of close to 200 produced. But clearly, the audience has spoken. Only wish Universal was listening because I would love to be doing the complete run. And to own it, for that matter.

So, I have made two decisions based on the poll. First, and most obviously, Dragnet will be the next show I am picking up to add to my review block. We will be getting to it in the not too distant future as we come up to it chronologically. I will backtrack and do the pilot as soon as the set arrives.

Second, due to the success of the poll and how I hope my audience grows as I begin posting reviews again, I will be doing audience polls for future shows to review in the future. The way it will work is if I don't have it and the show is in production, it's eligible for a poll. I'll do the polls twice "annually" during the television season - once at the end of a calendar year, once before a new television season starts. Based on the results will help determine where my money goes in investing on future shows. It helps especially for unknown quantities and for what my audience wants to read about.

There we have it then. Dragnet is in, everyone else is subject to review. Oh, by the way, Dragnet is NOT the only new program being added for review. Stay tuned, as they say. :)

Thanks again, everyone who voted! 

Audience Interest Poll

I know, I know, I promised only weekly updates going forward, but I’ve been meditating and I have two things on my mind.

First of, posting frequency. I’m thinking right now of doing posts every Saturday and Sunday. I know when I get on a good tear of research and writing, I can go for a while. So why just limit myself to a half hour or hour of television a week? This will NOT in any way shape or form lead to daily posts again, I am just too busy for that. But, if I am having fun and enjoying what I write, why not do it more often? So, as of right now, expect an update on Saturday and Sunday going forward.

Secondly, I have an eye toward the future. My library is pretty good, but I am always on the lookout for new shows to add to the mix, create a more concise view of television in a given period. My limitation right now is funds. So I have to be careful on what I invest in. Besides, why invest in a show no one has any real interest in reading about? So, I’ve decided to poll the jury, my readers, and see where interest lies. Based on the results of the poll will dictate shows going forward, at least for the remainder of the 1951-52 television season I am focusing on right now.

So, here are our candidates. Be aware, any shows prior to 1951-52, I will backtrack to eventually. maybe in between television seasons.

• Choice 1 - The Howdy Doody Show. I really have not done children’s programming on the blog up until now and given popularity over time, this is a good trial balloon for more kid’s stuff in the future.
• Choice 2 - Kukla, Fran and Ollie. Another kid’s show, but still at least somewhat known. Again, measuring interest now and for the future.
• Choice 3 - The Gene Autry Show. I focused on Autry heavily in the early days of the blog and, now with the complete series available, it’s logical to come back to it. However, it is a show I am not sure if my audience is that interested in coming back to Autry, given the show rarely averaged above twenty views every post. To invest in a show that still has three years in it and have that level of interest does not make a ton of sense. But, never know.
• Choice 4 - Cavalcade of Stars: Honeymooners segments. This is what leads into The Honeymooners proper show in a few years. I am just not sure if the audience is as strong for the 15 minute bits as it will be for the single season show, especially given this will be spread out substantially.
• Choice 5 - Dragnet. This is the classic 1950s version of the show, with only about 20-25 episodes out there in the public domain right now. I have zero problem tracking them down, I just am testing audience mood to see if it is worth doing.

So, those are the options. I’ll need actual replies to the blog to know where the mood lies, so please reply with your choice. I’ll cut off the poll at post time on Saturday, around noon Eastern Standard time. So please, cast your vote!

Thanks all! See you all next time!

So, did you miss me?

So, did you all miss me?

I've actually been thinking for quite some time about reviving this blog, writing again about television, what I love, what I think and hopefully offering some advice. So, now seemed as good a time as any to get back. But first, some background and forecasting.

To start, the blog stopped simply due to me running out of time while I was working to finish my education. I am happy to report that I return with a BA in history. Admittedly, it does not in any way, shape or form make me an expert, but at least I have a foundation to speak on now that I did not have back in 2010 and 2011 when I was first writing.

Second, the frequency is going to change on the blog. Originally, I was doing an entry a day. Pretty ambitious, but now unrealistic given I am working five out of seven days of the week. So, as of right now, you can expect a posting at least every Sunday morning, possibly Saturday evening. That is, unfortunately, the best I can manage right now.

Third, when I started this back in 2010, things like Netflix were just starting to do more digital presentations. Since then, with Hulu, Warner Archive and the WWE Network all launching, far more television content is available online, as much as is on DVD and Blu-Ray. The vision of the blog was to document television history as presented on DVD and Blu-Ray, but to ignore the digital market really is a disservice. So, here is how it will be addressed - I will remain focused on DVD and Blu-Ray, but I will mention digital media in terms of availability. It will remain television on DVD in name, but nods will be given so everyone knows their options.

Fourth, as of right now, I am at least considering doing more blog work, possibly in other media. I have not reached a firm decision on this as yet, but I will keep you all informed on future writings and efforts.

Finally, I will be picking up from where I left off. There have been a lot of shows added in the years I have been gone, chief among them complete runs of The Gene Autry Show and The Lone Ranger. I’ve decided in the interests of time and to regain my footing, to say nothing of protecting my wallet, to forge ahead and, if new shows come up, I’ll address those mixed in with other programs to keep from gutting with all one program.

I’m also aware that not every show is for everyone. Folks who read the blog for I Love Lucy may not be the target audience for Tales of Tomorrow or The Lone Ranger. That being said, they all are part of the television picture and the time frame. And who knows, maybe with my thoughts, I can gain some converts.

So, what is the plan going forward? For now, I want to finish the 1951 calendar year, mostly a mix of what we have been working on (Cisco Kid, Tales of Tomorrow, I Love Lucy, et al.) plus the mid year programs with the addition of The Roy Rogers Show. As for adding new shows to the line up, I’m on the fence as to doing mid-year additions heading into 1952 or waiting for the 1952-53 television season. I’m open to thoughts on this.

So, next time… we will saddle up and ride with The Cisco Kid. Until then, it’s good to be back.

I Love Lucy: Lucy is Jealous of Girl Singer

Not feeling well today, so I apologize for this being late or not up to usual standards.

I Love Lucy: Lucy Is Jealous of Girl Singer

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, December 17, 1951 at 9 PM ET.

Plot: Lucy is worried she is losing Ricky to a girl singer at the club after reading a publicity article in the paper.

Analysis: This particular episode does not really pick up steam until the end, but the final scenes in the club are a scream. But then again, that is par for the course for Lucy and Desi and speaks well of their ability to play off of each other.

A note on image quality: some scenes may look a little soft but that is because for syndication, some cuts were usually made either to cut advertisements or for run time. The DVD has restored the edits, but they are noticeable.

Also of note for those of you who have I Love Lucy: The Complete Series set: there is a special Phillip Morris Christmas ad hidden as an Easter Egg on the bonus disc of the set. It’s under the “I Love Lucy” heart when the menu screen for the On-Screen Ad during the premiere episode and it originally ran between the end of the nightclub scene and the coda in the Ricardos’ bedroom. It is actually a nice way to see how the ads originally fit into the episodes, making it worth seeking out just for that. It should also be included on the I Love Lucy: The Movie DVD, since it is the same disc, but I do not have the single release, so I hope someone who does can confirm this.

The Bottom Line: It’s Lucy, it’s funny and it’s a classic. Hate to be so succinct, but with a show like this, it really has just about been covered.

The episode itself can be found on I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....98759503&sr=1-3), but to be sure to get everything I was talking about (episode and commercial), you will probably need I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....98759503&sr=1-1). That is, of course, unless someone out there has the I Love Lucy movie DVD and can confirm my suspicions.

Next time, another ride with The Cisco Kid.

Racket Squad: The Salted Mine

Racket Squad: The Salted Mine

Originally broadcast on Thursday, November 15, 1951 at 10 PM ET on CBS.

Plot: Captain Braddock assists an old friend in proving his mining claim has been tampered with.

Analysis: Got a lot to cover here, so be patient please.

Racket Squad is a detective crime drama purely designed for television. The show started in 1950 with a syndication run before being picked up by CBS in June of 1951. Like with I Love Lucy, the show was sponsored by tobacco manufacturer Phillip Morris and also like Lucy, Racket Squad was later run in syndication with the Morris sponsor ads cut out. I believe this is why we jump directly into the action, since a pack of Phillip Morris is traditionally on the desk at the start of the episode, so to avoid any chance of seeing the pack, the producers of the DVD set opted to have a generic opening for Racket Squad in the start up of the disc and the individual episodes start with Braddock’s narration. This is also why the show irises out into the closing credits at the end, to hide the edit of the sponsor spots.

Captain Braddock is played by Reed Hadley, best known for his narration in a variety of documentaries and radio dramas. For the documentaries, he did work for the United States Department of Defense while for radio, he was most notable in the Red Ryder show.

Of note in this episode is the performance of Percy Helton, playing Dad Miller. He is one of those character actors a lot of people have seen or know the voice but have a difficult time placing. The one place I can point to at the moment where most people would know him from is his uncredited role as the drunken Santa Edmund Gwenn has to replace in Miracle on 34th Street. He has a number of character guest shots on television ahead of him and I will point them out as they come up.

Now, to the episode, where we have some good news and some bad news. Good news first: the plot is actually a good paced mystery working with the law trying to solve the puzzle, where, if the audience is quick enough, they can pick up the clues and figure it out at the same time. Now, the bad news: the quality of the print I have is not great, shifting from grainy to dark to a degree of pixilation in some of the scenes. It is not intolerable, but noticeable, so be warned in advance not to expect a high quality product. On the other hand, shows like Racket Squad are probably not high on the list of getting restored and major releases, so we make do with the tools that we have.

The Bottom Line: If you can stomach the image quality issues and the loss of the opening, the episode itself is an enjoyable watch, clearly in the vein of later shows like Dragnet. Given I personally love shows like this, I give it a thumbs up, just qualified with the issues outlined.

You can find The Salted Mine included with nine other episodes of Racket Squad in the Racket Squad set produced by Timeless Media Group (http://www.amazon.com/Racket-Squad/dp/B0....98751942&sr=1-2). Prices vary depending on where you do you shopping, but you are very unlikely to find it in stores, so keep your searches to the Internet.

Next time, more laughs with Lucy.

The Cisco Kid: Hidden Valley

The Cisco Kid: Hidden Valley

Originally broadcast in first-run syndication on Tuesday, December 11, 1951.

Plot: Cisco and Pancho are lured into a hidden valley stronghold run by former pirates and must fight to escape with their lives.

Analysis: This is a really nice combination of mystery and adventure in this episode, from wondering what exactly is going on early in the plot to some very nice fights and stunt work later on. Only complaints I honestly have is it does seem that this episode was re-edited from its original broadcast as there are some awkward and confusing cuts that make it a little difficult to track what is going on. That and I really doubt anyone building a stronghold in a valley is going to be stupid enough to build defensive walls low enough for anyone to climb over. Does kind of ruin the idea of suspense during some of the later scenes in the show.

As always, the episode is in color but was broadcast in black and white. In order to recreate a semblance of the original broadcast, simply turn down the color on your television and there you have it in glorious black and white… and heavy shadows especially in the beginning.

The Bottom Line: In terms of action, this episode is top flight and the plot is interesting, but it seems somewhat undone by the possible edits. It is worth a look if you want to draw your own conclusions since the overall show is certainly enough to keep your attention for a half hour or so.

Hidden Valley is included with nineteen other episodes on The Cisco Kid: Collection 3 (http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Kid-Collecti....98156976&sr=1-5). Prices vary, so be sure to shop around.

Next time, we will backtrack to add in a new crime drama.

Meet the Press: Guest Congressman John F. Kennedy (D-MA)

Meet the Press: Guest Congressman John F. Kennedy (D-MA)

Originally broadcast on NBC on Sunday, December 2, 1951 at 9 AM ET.

Plot: Four journalists have a question and answer session with the congressman.

Analysis: First, a confession. I do not actually have this program on DVD given the DVD, while available, is prohibitively expensive. Given it is available and the clip I was able to view matches what I downloaded on iTunes, I feel comfortable reviewing it this way in the interest of saving some money.

Second, does this not breach the politics rule? Yes, yes it does, but I had initiated the “no-politics” rule in the interest of keeping partisan politics from poisoning the blog. Given that this is just a straight discussion of the issues of the day and I can use this to have a civil discussion and historical analysis of what is going on in the world, to say nothing of a snapshot of a very famous individual, I just could not resist including this.

So, bottom line – if this lays an egg, I will call it a failed experiment and move on, never attempting it again. If, on the other hand, this is successful and does show how politics are covered in the early days of television, I will certainly do more Meet the Press and see what I can do about other television shows involving politics.

Some context for the interview: the 1952 elections were just under a year away with control of both the Presidency and Congress on the line, something the Democrats had had control over for twenty years, since the election of Franklin Roosevelt. Also, as previous Special Comments has covered, this was also a period of rising tensions due to the fear of infiltration of the United States government by members of the Communist Party. I will be discussing all of this in Special Comments at the end of the 1951 calendar year.

And finally, we have the congressman from Massachusetts, John F. Kennedy.

You may have heard of him.

All kidding aside, at this point in his career, Kennedy was 34 years old and had been in the United States House of Representatives since the 1946 elections following his service in the United States Navy in World War II. Buzz in political circles at this point was Kennedy was thinking of challenging sitting United States Senator Henry Cabot Lodge for his seat in the fall of 1952, which was one of the reasons he was on the show.

The Bottom Line: It really depends on your interest in politics and the depth of your knowledge of current events in 1951 not just if you will enjoy the program or how well you can grasp it. Speaking for myself, I find it a fascinating snapshot of where we are in the period. Others may just shrug and put it out of their minds. I suppose it is all up to the viewer this one.

If you are interested in seeing it, your wallet may never forgive you. It is available with other Meet the Press episodes featuring future United States Presidents at http://ffh.films.com/id/15382/Meet_the_Press_Meets_the_Presidents.htm. Individual discs run about a hundred dollars with the entire collection being 1,400 dollars.

Now you can see why I opted for iTunes and paying $1.99 an episode. Is it cheating? Yes. Is it less expensive? Absolutely.

It is, after all, your money, your choice. I leave it to you, the viewer to decide.

Next time, back on the trail with The Cisco Kid.

I Love Lucy: The Fur Coat

Apologize for the lateness, been running behind with my work tonight.

I Love Lucy: The Fur Coat

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, December 10, 1951 at 9 PM ET.

Plot: Ricky is in hot water when he brings home a mink coat for his act and Lucy thinks it was meant for her as an anniversary present.

Analysis: This is just fantastically fun, given I think every man alive has had this happen at one time or another – forget an anniversary and something they brought home the wife thinks is for them. Once again, Lucy takes situations that anyone can relate to and makes us all laugh at them because of the familiarity.

The Bottom Line: Not a classic episode, but it is a very fun one with Ricky’s comeuppance at the end an absolute scream. Shows what a great comedy actor Desi was in his own right.

If you are interested in seeing The Fur Coat, it is included in two collections: I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....97198253&sr=1-4) and I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....97198253&sr=1-1), depending on your funds and how much you love Lucy.

Next time, a step back to Meet the Press.

The Adventures of Kit Carson: The Teton Tornado

The Adventures of Kit Carson: The Teton Tornado

Originally broadcast in first-run syndication on Saturday, December 8, 1951.

Plot: Kit and Toro try to bring a horse swindler to justice, but problems arise when the suspect ends up being an old friend of Kits’.

Analysis: Recently, when the subject of Kit Carson came up on a message board, I read a remark that the producers of Carson were lucky they were not sued given how similar it was to Cisco Kid. In as much as we have two friends working together to solve crimes and bring down the bad guys, that may be true. But, honestly, it would seem a lot of Westerns are going to borrow ideas from others. This would seem to be especially true in this sort of middle Western period, as the serials are dying out, but before the Western boom of television had really taken hold.

Judging this particular episode of Carson on its merits, it is better than some of the stuff we had seen on Cisco and the previous episode of Carson we have already covered. Even when it is clear what is going on, the story does not just coast to the finish, even if a gunfight at the end might as well have a trademark stamped on it. Dare you not to whistle an Ennio Morricone tune just watching it. All and all, this is not too bad and not a bad way to spend a half hour.

A word or two on our star, Bill Williams, if I may: born in 1915, he got his start in movies in 1944 after a brief stint in the U.S. Army during World War II. Unfortunately, he did nothing truly star making between 1944 and 1951 when Kit Carson got started on television, which is where he began to get more steady work. We have a few more episodes of Carson ahead of us, plus more guest shots, so you will see what I mean.

The Bottom Line: Teton Tornado is not a bad sampling of either Kit Carson or a 1950s Western. Like I said above, if you have a half hour to kill and looking to be entertained, you could hardly do worse than this.

Teton Tornado is included with nine other episodes on Adventures of Kit Carson (http://www.amazon.com/Adventures-Kit-Car....3430238&sr=1-17). The collection is pretty inexpensive and I would be shocked if you could not find it for less at discount stores.

Next time, another I Love Lucy.

Tales of Tomorrow: Sneak Attack

Before we get started today, being aware that my blog is picking up an international audience (G'day, Australia!), I wanted to extend my thoughts and prayers to the people of New Zealand following the earthquakes. Sometimes, when you write about the history of what was, you forget about the history being made now. Wish you all luck, love and a swift recovery from your losses and pain. 

Now, to business...

Tales of Tomorrow: Sneak Attack

Originally broadcast on ABC on Friday, December 7, 1951 at 9:30 PM ET.

Plot: A secret agent trapped in a hospital is the only hope to save the United States from a sneak attack by a foreign power.

Analysis: Nice to see exploitive television is not a recent development. This story is only tangentially science fiction based (robot planes, a futuristic bomb type), it is very clearly meant to exploit two things – the ten-year anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor and the rising Cold War tensions with the then-Soviet Union. Do not kid yourself for one minute, folks, they may not be named as such, but between accents and stereotypes, the foreign power is clearly intended to be Russian.

I will also admit it is so easy to sit back in 2011 and say how foolish the attitudes and propaganda of 1951 would seem to us, but with a war… excuse me, police action in Korea going on, plus the growing fear of Communist influence in the United States, it would create an atmosphere ripe for either natural response or exploitation. It is, at the end of the day, up to the viewer to decide which category this falls into.

A word or two on our star, Zachary Scott, if I may. For five years prior to this, he had been making regular movie appearances, usually playing bad guys or “heavies”, roles he certainly looked the part for. However, in 1950, he had been involved in an accident that curtailed his acting, which led to less promotion. He made the jump to television and back into stage acting around this time with this appearance on Tales of Tomorrow being one of the first. There will probably be more and I will continue to discuss him as he appears.

The Bottom Line: With the caveat that this can easily appear to be propaganda and exploitive, Sneak Attack is a really interesting snapshot of 1950s attitudes and fears, both about ourselves and other countries. With that in mind, I can recommend the show in that respect. Just be aware that while it is history to United States audiences, this is either going to be laughable at best or insulting at worst to those overseas.

Sneak Attack is included with 12 other Tales of Tomorrow on Tales of Tomorrow: Collection One (http://www.amazon.com/Tales-Tomorrow-Col....3424148 &sr=1-1). Prices vary depending on websites.

Next time, another adventure with Kit Carson.

The Cisco Kid: Vigilante Story

The Cisco Kid: Vigilante Story

Originally broadcast in first-run syndication on Tuesday, December 4, 1951.

Plot: Cisco and Pancho go undercover to discover the mystery behind a gang of masked vigilantes.

Analysis: Figures. Minute I get done complaining about the show’s consistency, we get the best episode of Cisco so far. This is almost exactly how a Western should be, a plot not solved in ten seconds and suspense and action along the way. The comedy is not forced, the characters are believable and the situations make perfect sense in the context of the story. What more can be said?

Well, if I HAD to nit pick, why is the barber wearing a white sport blazer that would look better on Sonny Crockett? I do not know much about Western fashions, but something about that jacket seems anachronistic.

The Bottom Line: As I have indicated, this is the best episode of Cisco Kid so far and one I would recommend to anyone curious in seeing a good episode or an example of a 1950s kiddie Western.

Vigilante Story is included with nineteen other episodes on The Cisco Kid: Collection 3 (http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Kid-Collecti....98156976&sr=1-5). I recommend comparison-shopping, as the prices will vary greatly depending on where you are looking.

Next time, a timely tale of tomorrow.

I Love Lucy: Men Are Messy

I Love Lucy: Men Are Messy

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, December 3, 1951 at 9 PM ET.

Plot: Lucy thinks Ricky is an incurable slob, so she plots a trick to teach Ricky a lesson when a photographer comes over.

Analysis: This is textbook Lucy – taking a common situation that everyone can relate to and taking it to the most absurd conclusion. I believe this is also the first use of Lucy’s trademark “Ewwwwwww…” when a situation goes wrong.

I have not mentioned it before, but occasionally during some of these first seasons episodes, first with The Audition and again here, the screen goes a little soft when there is either a reference to Philip Morris or anything that could be viewed as advertising smoking. The reason for that is two-fold: Morris was the original sponsor for I Love Lucy and when the show was in syndication and no longer sponsored by Morris, those references, including the opening credits, needed to be replaced. Add to that that later in the show’s life, scenes of the smoking were gradually pared back as the side effects of cigarette use became better known. I may discuss this more as I am thinking about doing a Special Comment on cigarette manufactures as television sponsors.

The Bottom Line: Not a bad episode, just helps to establish the prototype of what a Lucy episode would be, especially later in the show’s run, when you get more of Lucy and her latest madcap scheme and Ricky’s reaction. Lucy is always relate-able, to be sure, by families and more often than not, a consistently funny show.

Men Are Messy is found on I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....97198253&sr=1-4) as well as I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....97198253&sr=1-1), depending on your income and interest in the show.

Next time, another ride with the Cisco Kid.

I Love Lucy: The Seance

I Love Lucy: The Séance

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, November 26, 1951 at 9 PM ET.

Plot: Lucy’s obsession with numerology costs Ricky a job, but once she discovers Ricky’s potential employer reveals similar interests, she plans a séance to get Ricky his job back.

Analysis: Cute premise with Lucy causing Ricky ulcers as usual, but the solution with the séance is where the episode gains a lot of its fun. Also, for 1951, Ricky asking Lucy if she likes how he vibrates is an amazingly dirty line.

As is the norm by now, the original opening for I Love Lucy is included as an extra on the DVD. To recreate a somewhat similar 1951 viewing experience, simply watch the original opening, then skip to the start of action in the episode. By the way, as a fun bit of trivia, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera created the animated characters of Ricky and Lucy for the opening. Unfortunately, they were never given credit for their work until recently due to them being under contract with MGM Animation at the time.

The Bottom Line: Not a true classic, but this is a fun episode worth checking out. Honestly cannot say much more than that, it just is a fun half hour of harmless entertainment. The Séance can be found on both I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....97198253&sr=1-4) and I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....97198253&sr=1-1), if you are interested in watching.

Next time, we got more Lucy.

I Love Lucy: The Audition

I Love Lucy: The Audition

Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, November 19, 1951 at 9 PM ET.

Plot: Ricky attempts to keep Lucy away from an important audition for television executives.

Analysis: Well, this is a small case of early recycling. The original pilot of I Love Lucy featured the same script, but since the pilot was never broadcast on television, the writers were able to make some small tweeks and, voila, instant new episode. It is easy to see while watching this why the executives agreed Lucy could work, given how funny Lucy and her physical comedy are and Desi works both believably as a straight man and as her husband. Of note during the episode is the actors playing the television executives watching the audition are Jess Oppenheimer, the head writer and producer on Lucy, CBS executive Hal Hudson and CBS Vice President Harry Ackerman, the three men actually responsible for getting Lucy on the air.

And we finally come to the last of our four principals, William Frawley. Frawley got his start in bit parts and singing on the vaudeville stage before moving to movies in 1933. The list of roles and movies he got from there is enormous, most notably playing a political adviser for the judge in Miracle on 34th Street in 1947. By the 1950s, movie roles were slowly drying up for the aging Frawley, so he took a chance and auditioned for the role of Fred on Lucy.

The Bottom Line: Some of the physical comedy in this episode is pretty funny and, given it was based on what sold executives on the show, this is an easy recommendation and entry-level episode for Lucy. If you are interested in checking it out, you have two options: I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....97198253&sr=1-4) or I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....97198253&sr=1-1).

Next time, more Lucy.

The Cisco Kid: Black Lightning

The Cisco Kid: Black Lightning

Originally broadcast in first-run syndication on Monday, November 19, 1951.

Plot: Cisco and Pancho fight to save the life of a wild stallion accused of making off with nearby mares.

Analysis: This is such a marked improvement over the last episode, I cannot believe this is the same series. Toward the end, there are moments of real suspense and drama, making for a very refreshing change given the last episode seemed to be such a clunker. This may be what drives me crazy about Cisco Kid is that the quality of the show is so inconsistent. It is near Gene Autry levels one episode, the next has me rolling my eyes. Clearly, modern eyes will be more demanding than early 50s eyes and I should be a bit more understanding of the limitations, but I also have to be aware that the people reading the blog will not be as forgiving as I will be.

As usual, in order to recreate the 1950s experience more closely, turn off the color on your television while watching the episode since, while the televisions were predominately black and white, Cisco Kid was shot in color.

The Bottom Line: This is actually a quality episode of Cisco and one I have no issue recommending. Some really suspenseful moments toward the end and an intriguing plot line, even if they give away who is really behind the plot early in the episode. Still, the show never has been designed for deep plots, so it is unfair to demand one.

Black Lightning is included on The Cisco Kid: Collection Two (http://www.amazon.com/Cisco-Kid-Collecti....86758713&sr=1-3).

Next time, more laughs with Lucy.

I Love Lucy: The Quiz Show

I Love Lucy: The Quiz Show Originally broadcast on CBS on Monday, November 12, 1951 at 9 PM ET. Plot: Lucy tries to cover her unpaid bills by going on a quiz show, but may have a difficult time explaining the last challenge to Ricky. Analysis: Seems like someone took two 15-minute scripts and married them into the 30-minute program, one being the quiz show portion, the other being the final situation that Lucy has to explain to Ricky to earn the money. It’s still fun to watch, if a bit uneven. Of note is one of the guest stars in the show, Frank Nelson. Even if you have never heard of Nelson, you know his shtick: a long, high-pitched, drawn out “Yessssssssssss???” when responding to a greeting or a request for help. His distinctive voice was heard most notably on the Jack Benny Program over the radio for years before making the jump to television. He will be something of a regular on Lucy and Jack Benny’s television program, among other television appearances. You will no doubt come to know his voice pretty quickly, but I will still point out appearances. As noted before, the original openings for I Love Lucy are an extra on the DVDs, so to approximate the broadcast, you will watch the original opening first, then skip over the familiar “satin heart” opening directly into the episode. The Bottom Line: Like I said, the story is a bit uneven, but still a fun episode of Lucy, especially wondering how she will work her way through the final challenge. Worth checking out, especially if you are a fan of Lucy and her physical comedy. The Quiz Show can be found in two different formats: I Love Lucy: The Complete First Season (http://www.amazon.com/Love-Lucy-Complete....97198253&sr=1-4) or I Love Lucy: The Complete Series (http://www.amazon.com/I-Love-Lucy-Comple....97198253&sr=1-1). Just depends how big a fan of Lucy you are which version you would want to pick up. Next time, another ride with Cisco Kid.