First. Let's do the math. The $50,000 dollars in question is worth over 500,000 smackers today.
Enough to temp ANY law abiding citizen and a small crowd!
Such is the predicament for straight-lace cop Gary Merrill, who is personally esorting tricky bad guy William Redfield on a train. Redfield, who spent a career playing a wide range of characters, makes him an appetizing offer in exchange for his freedom -- just look the other way.
True, this is a very familiar tale, but If you're a Hitchcock fan, you'll want to hang on for the ride as it gets very interesting. Credit Sterling Silliphant for writing this gem, who began his career with Walt Disney. And actually it was a blessing when Disney fired him because he went on to create two iconic tv shows, ROUTE 66 and NAKED CITY. Need we say more.
This is basically a two man show, replete with a claustrophobic setting (a train compartment), perfect ingredients for Hitch. Both actors shine, thanks to director Robert Stevens, long associated with the series for that very reason. Actually, watching both Merrill and Redfield trade barbs is similar to watching a poker game. Whose gonna' win, and in a way, you find yourself rooting for BOTH. Redfield is especially cunning and persuasive. Had his character gone straight, he would have made a fortune as a salesman!
The ending will give you the last laugh, guaranteed, and Sterling Silliphant wraps this up perfectly. A neat late night treat. FROM SEASON 2 remastered Universal dvd box set. 5 dvds. 2006. 16 hrs 52 min. Running time.