Tales of Tomorrow (TV Series) Blunder (1951) User Reviews

Wish I could see all the episodes.

[ChuckStraub · 6/10 · 22 February 2009]

I watched "Blunder" on a DVD that had 7 episodes with the original commercials. I wish I could see all the episodes. I enjoyed watching the commercials almost as much as the movie. The first commercial for this episode was from "CARE" speaking about, and showing the problem of the many displaced people of World War II. Another commercial asks the viewers to buy United States Defense Bonds. Both the commercials help the viewer understand a little of what it was like at the time that this episode was originally viewed. 1951 was a different world then the one we live in today. "Blunder" is an early science fiction story warning of the possible dangers of nuclear experimentation. I was surprised to see a couple of negative remarks about censorship in the film. They were probably pretty bold for the time. This show was a half hour long, so it moves along fairly quickly. It seemed to be just right for "Blunder". I think a sci-fi fan with an interest in history will really enjoy this episode.

An anti-nuclear fable from early in the atomic age

[jamesrupert2014 · 6/10 · 13 December 2021]

Desperate attempts are made to warn a scientist that the experiential nuclear reaction that he is about to initiate could destroy all life on Earth. This simple cautionary tale about scientific hubris is framed by a planetarium speaker discussing how long the Earth could last unless mankind does something very reckless and is clearly inspired by the real life concerns by members of the Manhattan Project (such as Arthur Compton) that 'atmospheric ignition' was a possible result of induced nuclear fission. The episode is reasonably 'progressive' by early Cold-war standards - the scientist opines on the value of open communications (as opposed to the extreme secrecy and censorship surrounding nuclear technology) and how his work could benefit all of humanity rather than simply add to America's arsenal. The series' low-budget is apparent in the minimal sets and props and not much happens - people all over the world tell each other that disaster is imminent and the scientist argues with his wife about whether he should listen to anyone else's opinion. The exchanges at the lab never ring true - the scientist is not portrayed as a megalomaniac who would willingly risk the Earth for the glory of a great discovery, he just seems intent on throwing the switch (even though he recognises the existential risk in doing so) because he's tired of naysayers. The ending is somewhat unexpected and the episode is a historically interesting relic of the early cold-war era (the version I watched on-line opens with a plea from CARE for money to support people displaced by the War in Europe and later there is an advertisement for US Defense Bonds).

Not exactly subtle!

[planktonrules · 5/10 · 16 September 2012]

This episode of "Tales of Tomorrow" isn't exactly subtle. On top of that, the main characters just don't behave rationally. Together, this makes this a weak episode--one that is clearly the product of the times.

A professor is planning an experiment that MIGHT give mankind tons of cheap energy forever...or it could kill everyone within seconds. He feels the odds are in his favor and ignores every attempt by every SANE scientist to stop the experiment. As a result, bad things happen! Clearly this show is about nuclear weapons. When the first atomic bomb was detonated, scientists weren't 100% sure it wouldn't blow up the planet---and the guy in this show is clearly meant to replicate that thinking. As a result of this and his unwillingness, you need to think that the show is NOT being subtle and is anyone THAT stupid?! The same material could have been covered in a much more realistic and thought-provoking manner. This one is just hard to believe and silly. Overall, a pretty weak episode of an otherwise excellent anthology series.

A Crazy Man at the Helm

[Hitchcoc · 8/10 · 26 July 2013]

I was completely taken in by this episode. It involves all that goes on as a single man in a remote place has the future of the earth in his hands. He has devised a machine that uses nuclear energy. He thinks it will provide an unlimited supply of light and energy to make the future of earth secure. The other scientists, one in particular, believes it will set off a chain reaction that will put an end to our planet. The episode involves a a great effort to get to this guy and put a stop to what he is doing. Even the President gets into the act. Meanwhile, the monomaniac continues the countdown. We are brought along for the ride. Will he? Won't he? The acting and pacing are excellent for a less-than-thirty-minute broadcast.