Four Star Playhouse: The Adolescent (1954)
Season 3, Episode 5
Illustrative of Its Time
16 May 2021
So what is it young Phillip (Arthur) is trying to hide from school disciplinarian Miss Coberly (Lupino). He fesses up to drinking more than a few beers at a neighborhood tavern, but the astute Coberly senses something more. But what could it be; he's such an innocent looking kid with a wealthy, if over-bearing, father, and a promising future. On the other hand, I'm not sure I buy the awkward upshot given the build-up. Still the suspense is unusual since nothing sinister appears involved. So what the heck is the kid hiding.

Note the neat touch with the trampy blonde leaving the apartment door as the repectable Coberly passes by; it only takes a second but right away we know Coberly's now in a rough part of town. Also, the theme, I think, fits in neatly with teenage norms of the time when passing quickly into adulthood was prized. Anyway, as expected Lupino carries things in what amounts to an unusual entry in this outstanding series..
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