Original Airdate: February 10, 1964
Another fine entry with a gothic feel. Martin Landau “THE MAN WHO WAS NEVER BORN” and Sally Kellerman “THE HUMAN FACTOR” return in this tale of ambition and lust for power. Also returning are Neil Hamilton “THE INVISIBLES” and John Hoyt “DON’T OPEN TIL DOOMSDAY” as this week’s alien. Martin, as idealistic inventor Richard Bellero Jr, unwittingly makes it possible for an alien to travel to earth. His devious wife sees it as an opportunity for self-gain, and resorts to deception, thievery and worse. The thought-provoking ending is memorable and debatable.
Good performances and dialogue through out, and atmospheric photography help make this another top OL. I particularly like the glowing alien effect, even when blended with the normal surroundings and people – very smooth. And the “Bitfrost” alien (Hoyt) is very likeable. He evokes sympathy and sorrow for his fate. There are many involving verbal exchanges, as when Bellero Sr (Hamilton) tells his daughter-in-law (Kellerman) – “
It’s been a silent war Judith. But now I’m about to fire a very loud shot.” Actually Hamilton has many good lines here, ie: “
Great men are forgiven their murderous wives...”, etc. Sally played a nice gal in “THE HUMAN FACTOR”. This time round she sprouts horns and exudes an icy kiss.
“
When this passion called aspiration becomes lust, then aspiration degenerates, becomes vulgar ambition, by which sin the angels fell." ~ The Control Voice