Branded (TV Series) The Mission: Part 3 (1965) User Reviews

Wendell Corey and Patrick Wayne

[kevinolzak · 9/10 · 30 March 2017]

"The Mission" concludes with this third chapter set at Fort Perry, commanded by Major Whitcomb (Wendell Corey), whose son was killed at Bitter Creek, harboring resentment for Jason McCord ever since. Jason's marauders enter the fort disguised as soldiers, himself wearing the uniform of his fallen comrade Colonel Snow, their raid on the payroll about to be foiled by McCord when the Major interrupts, arresting the coward and ordering him to be shot at sunrise for treason. Despite his pleas of a top secret mission on behalf of the President, and the name of General Arrielo as head of the gang of bandits, Whitcomb is determined to go by the book and disbelieving of the seemingly preposterous story. An escape attempt is undone by Corporal Dewey (Patrick Wayne), who nevertheless is less enthusiastic about the execution than Private Tyler (Steven Marlo). Brissac (H.M. Wynant) and Crispo (Peter Breck) listen to the fatal gunfire and rejoice in Jason's demise, but being unable to see the carnage prove incapable of saving their own necks. The brilliant climax is as surprising as it is just, and leaves one wondering just how many people were convinced of McCord's innocence by the time the series ended.

Peter Breck

[mitchrmp · 9/10 · 10 February 2011]

Okay, I've decided I DID indeed like Breck playing this character type. He did so wonderful! It was very believable. I loved the very end when he thought Jason was dead...that EVIL laugh...oh, it sent chills up my spine!

So, the writers held me in suspense up to the very end. I couldn't help wondering how he was ever going to get himself out of that situation, and seeing Jason in front of the firing squad like that was almost too much for me to bear to watch!

Whew, I must say I'm glad that was over! The soldiers saluting him at the end was a nice touch!