Time. Such a precious commodity. And a universal concern. We all wish we had more of it. More time to do the things that we want, or need, to do.
All Henry Bemis (Burgess Meredith) wants is to read. His passion is the printed word. When he gets desperate, he'll even read the printing on condiment packages. His passion does get him in trouble at work, because his nagging wife (Jacqueline deWit) refuses to let him read at home. She thinks he should be practicing the art of conversation a lot more.
Ultimately, Henry gets his wish - in a way. A nuclear holocaust decimates life and property as far as the eye can see. Henry was spared because he was tucked away in a bank vault doing what he does best. Despairing and lonely at first, he soon realizes that now he has all the time in the world to devote himself to books. That is, until a cruel twist of fate.
Director John Brahm ("The Lodger", "Hangover Square") masterfully directs this legendary, beloved (for good reason) eighth 'Twilight Zone' episode. Those who see it, don't forget it. Not only is there a brilliant, endearing performance by Mr. Meredith, but the visuals are extraordinary. Brahm and a talented crew truly do make it look like the end of the world has come. Part of the visual appeal, of course, are the oversized glasses that Meredith wears, an interesting stylistic choice.
Meredith receives very capable support from Ms. deWit, and a perfectly cast Vaughn Taylor (who played Marion Cranes' boss in "Psycho") as Bemis' boss, who dislikes seeing his employee not concentrate on his work.
The haunting finale is justly praised. After all, delivering a potent twist or revelation was something that this series always did so beautifully.
This episode comes highly recommended.
10 out of 10.
