This is a unique episode of the Twilight Zone, as it was actually a short film shot in France which won the Academy Award for Live Action Short Film in 1963. It was then bought by Rod Serling’s production team to air as a part of their series. It does in its own way fit straight into the mantra of the series and doesn’t feel out of place.
It is impressive given the almost zero dialogue that takes place, and yet you can easily discern the plot of the episode and how it is progressing. The fact that it is based on a story set in American and written by an American but film and acted by Frenchmen doesn’t affect it at all. The excellent portrayal of the protagonist by Roger Jacquet gives the whole story its impetus, as he tries to escape from his fate after the rope he is being hanged by snaps, allowing him to drop into the river below from where he escapes his bonds and looks to make his way home. It is expertly filmed, and the story never lags and keeps you interested in the finale right up until the final plotline is revealed.
Perhaps it is a cop out to have such a well-executed, and award winning, short film as an episode in a long running series, but given the story’s nature it is a worthy addition, and more than acceptable within the Twilight Zone universe.
Rating: Loosening the noose. 5/5
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