A variation of the famous song, LOVE POTION NUMBER 9... which actually may have inspired the later TZ episode called "The Chaser." A little confusing, but fun, as only Rod Serling would want it.
Ironically, best of movie bad men Dan Duryea plays Al Denton, a hopeless drunk in a western town. The real villain here is none other than Martin Landau (at his meanest!) playing Dan Hotaling, his worst nightmare. This was quite a switch in casting (to begin with) because Duryea played desperados for years.
Here's the kicker. A strange gentleman named "Henry J. Fate" (well played by Malcolm Atterbury) offers Denton an elixir that will make him clean and sober and a crack shot. Very similar in technique to "The Chaser" episode, also from Season 1, where a professor gives an elixir to a man that will --instead-- improve his love life.
Watch this for the two memorable performances of Dan Duryea and Martin Landau, expertly directed by Allen Reisner. Unfortunately, this was the only episode he directed, best known for HAWAII FIVE O and the GREEN HORNET. Also look for future soap opera star Jeanne Cooper as Liz.
True, tv westerns at the time were a ratings hit, and this episode was probably Rod Serling's eerie contribution to the Old West. Very ingenious.
Best of SEASON 2 EPISODE 3 remastered.
Ironically, best of movie bad men Dan Duryea plays Al Denton, a hopeless drunk in a western town. The real villain here is none other than Martin Landau (at his meanest!) playing Dan Hotaling, his worst nightmare. This was quite a switch in casting (to begin with) because Duryea played desperados for years.
Here's the kicker. A strange gentleman named "Henry J. Fate" (well played by Malcolm Atterbury) offers Denton an elixir that will make him clean and sober and a crack shot. Very similar in technique to "The Chaser" episode, also from Season 1, where a professor gives an elixir to a man that will --instead-- improve his love life.
Watch this for the two memorable performances of Dan Duryea and Martin Landau, expertly directed by Allen Reisner. Unfortunately, this was the only episode he directed, best known for HAWAII FIVE O and the GREEN HORNET. Also look for future soap opera star Jeanne Cooper as Liz.
True, tv westerns at the time were a ratings hit, and this episode was probably Rod Serling's eerie contribution to the Old West. Very ingenious.
Best of SEASON 2 EPISODE 3 remastered.