Little White Frock

This isn't your typical episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, and it's all the better for it.

I'm not at all familiar with any of Herbert Marshall's other work, but this episode makes me want to find and watch it all. He's truly a captivating actor, carrying this episode entirely with his performance. I could watch this man do a dramatic reading of a phonebook!

It's appropriate that the episode ends up being a love letter to actors (which I'm sure Hitchcock just loved /s). Usually, an AHP episode with a lot of monologuing and flashbacks is a dull, dragging affair. In this case, it didn't last long enough.

Herbert Marshall (who appeared for Hitch in FOREIGN CORRESPONDENT) plays himself here, a retiring actor, the difference is his stage career could use a boost.

The storyline, written by Stirling Silliphant, may remind you of material Claude Rains also did for Hitch, the downtrodden, poor old gent who could use a break. You have to love Marshall's name, Colin Bragner(?), a fading star, and one who could really get into his role -- without giving too much away. With no job prospects, Colin takes a chance and invites young and upcoming producer Tom Helmore and his wife Julie Adams to his home to have a nice, friendly get-together... and whatever comes next. In short, Marshall delivers a memorable performance.

Bartlett Robinson, usually at home playing stuffed shirts, plays Mr. Robinson, in a role obviously written for him, also veteran actress Kitty Kelly (as Marie), who appeared in scores of movies.

Excellent three character study, again showing the wide range of material Stirling Silliphant could write, soon to create NAKED CITY and ROUTE 66. He had the coolest name in tv at the time.

FYI; Tom Helmore appeared in VERTIGO for Hitch.

SEASON 3 EPISODE 39 remastered CBS dvd box set. 16 hrs running time. All seven seasons are now on dvd in a single box set. Released 2022.

Pleasure to watch this episode with the excellent and accomplished actor Herbert Marshall. I was mesmerised by the story told by him but then I could listen to his voice ad infinium. Indeed the quality of his voice is referred to by the sparkling Julie Adams.

I was also genuinely caught out by the twist usually I see them coming or it's easy to guess.

Well acted, interesting, emotionally moving, uplifting and relevant today.

Most of the episodes of "Alfred Hitchcock Presents" are about crimes...particularly murder. However, "Little White Frock" is a show that has nothing to do with crime whatsoever...and this isn't a bad thing, as the episode is pretty good.

The show begins during a rehearsal for some play. The producer isn't thrilled with the reading and he wants to replace this older actor with another more talented older actor. Soon after, the producer meets up with an old has-been actor, Colin Bragner (Herbert Marshall) and he invites the producer and his wife over for dinner. The producer is loathe to accept as he figures Colin heard about the reading and wanted to audition for it. In fact, he does accept but makes it clear he isn't interested in Colin for the play....and Colin doesn't make a play for the part...at least, not directly. What's next? See the show.

This episode is very good for two reasons. The script is unique and interesting AND Marshall was a heck of a good actor. Overall, a lovely episode where no one dies, loses an eye or get robbed. Imagine that!

Personally, I believe the art of storytelling is one of the great arts. In this episode two things are at issue, age and talent. Even in the 1950's age discrimination had reared its ugly head. Not much has changed. Here an old actor with great credentials attempts to re-enter the acting fray, but has no means to do it because of hot shot directors and agents who wear their prejudice on their sleeves. The tale of the sad little girl in the frock tears at our hearts. This is a tale of loss and betrayal and the destruction of a man. But, it's also a tale grabbed onto by the master and presented so beautifully. Things haven't changed much in sixty years. Perhaps this episode could teach us something.