The Faith of Aaron Menefee

A pretty typical story. We know the healer will get it eventually when the chips are down. I don't know what happened to Andrew Prine, but I thought he did a pretty decent job in this offering (written by Ray Bradbury). He has that southern evangelical thing going on. The daughter, Emily, is really quite beautiful. Story keeps one's interest.

When the story begins, Otis 'Healer' Jones arrives at a gas station with a car that is in need of service. Aaron works at the local service station and quickly fixes it. But shortly after, he doubles over in pain...and tells Jones that he has an ulcer. The traveling trickster lays his hands on Aaron and his problem seems to vanish. Soon Aaron is a believer...so much so that he quits his job to travel with Otis as he does his revival meetings. But Aaron is in for a rude awakening sooner or later....as 'Healer' Jones is clearly a fake this becomes evident when Aaron brings a wounded gangster to Jones to heal.

I assume that this show will offend folks who have strong belief in faith healers. But considering the track records of many of the televangelists who have healing services, the show seems right on the mark and offers a nice comeuppance for folks who would use God to bilk people. Well written and a nice twist.

Ray Bradbury wrote this little gem without too much surprise. Bradbury held the distinction of making his characters stand out. They sure do, particularly a faith healer called Otis Jones. Veteran actor Sidney Blackmer, who played his fair share of gentleman villains in a distinguished career, turns in one of his finest tv performances.

Young Andrew Prine plays a garage mechanic who begins to "believe" in the faith healing of Jones. They both take a liking to each other and Prine soon becomes his chauffer and a member of his troupe. Then a little friction begins (a la Hitch) when Prine becomes attracted to his lovely daughter, played by Maggie Pierce.

The question always arises; Why do fools like Jones happen to be blessed with beautiful daughters?

Ya know there's more trouble ahead... Like a gangster who needs a BIG miracle? Can Otis Jones work his magic?

An incredible story you'll want to see again and never get tired of it, again thanks to Sidney Blackmer. Look for the "queen of bit actors" Bess Flowers, playing one of the audience members. She's usually the one with the best wardrobe. That was her trademark. Old favorite Robert Armstrong (KING KONG) plays the doc.

For all us sitcom fans, Maggie Pierce co-starred on MY MOTHER THE CAR.

Best of SEASON 7 EPISODE 17 remastered Universal dvd box set. All seasons are now in a single box set for collectors. 25 dvds. Released 2022.