I'll make this post brief, as I may not be on the same lines as others about this episode.

Whenever I watch a movie, tv program, or listen to an RMT episode, where a character has a chance to redo something, rectify something, or even in situations where poor decisions lead to unfortunate circumstances, I usually blurt out one word when the concept finally hits me: "Dope!"

That's what I blurted out twice in this episode. Now, Mercedes McCambridge, for me, is one of those actors for the RMT that usually makes me change to another episode. Her drawn out, over the top style of acting often leaves me with a need to gargle and listen to 40 minutes of silence. I think because (I say this with affection) she kind of reminds me of my own melodramatic mom. I can only listen to her go on for about 30 minutes or so before I must fabricate some reason to simply get off the phone or out of the moving car.

Despite my obvious lack of passion for the actress, the story was just too over the top for me. Desperation forces folks to do crazy things, but if one were to live with the guilt of another's death for 20 years, I really believe they would ammend things, given a second chance.

The way she blew it in the end just made me blurt out "dope" with a slight head shaking. The first time I heard this episode, I think I did the same thing.

I really enjoyed the sinister man character. Not quite the devil, but certainly devilish enough. Just the way he said the word "opportunities" was enough to get me on his side. hehe

Overall, I gave the episode a 3.5. Production was spot on, as always, and honestly, the performances were very well done. I just don't walk a straight line after listening to M.M. and with a story that just fell down a flight of stairs (for me), my score is reflective.

Thanks for the pick and I look forward to next time!