Crack of Doom

I guess STRANGERS ON A TRAIN inspired, at least the first scenes of this episode which the plot has nothing to do with the famous Alfred Hitchcock's film. This is a gambler tale, poker game actually. I know nothing bout poker, so, I was more than confused by this plot. However, I got that it also was a story about gambling addiction. That's all I got; now, for the rest, I could not enjoy as much as if I was a poker player myself. Bob Middleton is the only actor I knew here. Not bad, but, again, I am not the best reviewer to give a helpful comment. Not the best I have ever seen so far in the show.

A no-limit game of poker brings a real estate man to the brink of ruin. That man is played by Wagon Train's Robert Horton and he captures his character's desperation quite well. The poker playing scenes are suspenseful, however the ending lacked a twist.

As usually the master Hitch appears to insert the main subject in the episode "gambling "exposing some cards, due the show was shot in black & white then the color of cards disappears on this diffuse format, so misleading the audience concerning the what coming next over a nocturne train from New York toward Chicago where the travelers ought to spending their time on gambling over so extensive journey.

One of them Mr. Mason Bridges (Robert Horton) a successful business man is ostensible against the poker suggested by his friend on board, so he explains what did happen with him is pastime that which led him dropped out this menacing game, it has connecting with color of the cards, it's an interesting story exploited by the poker face Hitchcock.

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First watch: 2025 / How many: 1 / Source: DVD / Rating: 7.5.

"Crack of Doom" is a story that really is unusual for "Alfred Hitchcock Presents". There is no murder and the story is very straight forward and has a strong anti-gambling message.

When the story begins, a group of businessmen are on the train. One suggests they play some poker to pass the time...no high stakes, just a friendly poker game. But Mason (Robert Horton) refuses to play no matter how much the guys badger him. Later, he explains at length to one of the men about why...and it involves a long flashback to a poker game long ago where he got in over his head...and nearly lost everything.

The story is interesting but there never is the sense of doom or mayhem in the story like most from the series. In other words, it's a very different sort of suspense...and is good but not a great episode. Worth seeing...but no must-see.

One of Hitch's famous "addiction" tales of tales, keenly written by Robert C. Dennis, as always. I've often wondered if Dennis was a card player himself?

Robert Horton (known for WAGON TRAIN), a favorite of Hitch, plays Mason, your everyday guy who likes to play a game of cards every now and then. The difference is there came a game where he got in TOO deep, relating the tale of "doom" to a friend. It happened many years ago, however to him, it was just like yesterday and all coming down to the flip of a card.

Mason jumped into a game with a slick gent named Klinker (love that name), played by screen villain par excellence Robert Middleton. Even with a suit and tie, he had the look of a not too pleasant chap. The game begins in earnest (for a few minutes...), building and building to the point where Mason could lose his shirt. He apparently has an ace in the hole, some additional money in the bank? Is it still there? Are you laughing yet?

Now everythings on the table, and what a Hitch predicament. If you're thinking the CINCINNATTI KID, this story a possible inspiration to the classic film, with far less frills, though the kid versus the old timer angle hits the bullseye.

One of those scenarios that can go either way, and even if you've seen it, worth a second and third viewing for the endgame. Both stars shine, Robert Middleton a bonafide scene stealer and deservedly so. Remembered for the DESPERATE HOURS, perhaps the reason Hitch cast him here. Look for Gavin Gordon as one of the players.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 9 remastered Universal dvd box set. All seven seasons are now on dvd in a single box set for ultimate fans. Released 2022.