Tragedy in a Temporary Town

Reginald Rose is the author of the screenplay for both the television version of the story (1954) and the later movie version (1957). In between both of these he also wrote "Tragedy in a Temporary Town"....a story much like his "12 Angry Men" combined with the great western "The Ox-bow Incident".

When the story begins, a young girl tells her family she's been assaulted at a local construction site. Instead of contacting the police, the construction workers form a vigilante group and soon a crazed mob mentality sets in with them. Only one is willing to buck them when he calls for reason.

The story has so many similarities to "12 Angry Men"---a group rushing to judgement, bigotry against Hispanic Americans, a great ensemble cast of character actors (several of which were also in "12 Angry Men"), a great look at the ugly side of human nature. And, like "The Ox-Bow Incident", there is a lynch mob and they seem more interested in punishing SOMEONE regardless of whether or not they are actually guilty. But the one similarity is shares with both movies is that it's a quality production...well written and acted throughout.

So how can you see this excellent teleplay? Either find the Criterion DVD for "12 Angry Men" (it's an extra on the disc) or check the Criterion Channel...where currently it's available.