Ep 2. Fog Closing In

In the second episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents' second season titled "Fog Closing In," the audience is transported to a small, seaside town called Rocky Point. The town is shrouded in a thick fog that rolls off the nearby coast, hiding the ominous rocky shoreline from view.

The story opens with a harried woman named Irene (played by Anne Bancroft) rushing to the local post office to pick up a package. She's visibly shaken and when asked if something is wrong, she responds that she's just "had a trying day." As she leaves, she specifically requests that her package be sent to her sister-in-law's address, and not her own.

As the story progresses, we learn more about Irene's situation. She's recently married to a wealthy man, George, with whom she's had a rocky marriage. She confides in her sister-in-law that George's behavior has become increasingly erratic, and she's afraid that he might harm her.

The tension builds as we see George (played by John Cassavetes) arriving in Rocky Point. He's clearly agitated and confronts Irene, demanding that she come back to their home in the city. Irene claims that she wants a divorce, and their argument turns physical. The next morning, George is found dead on the rocky shoreline, apparently having fallen off a cliff in the fog.

As the investigation into George's death unfolds, Irene becomes the prime suspect. She's convinced that George's death was an accident and that she's being framed. The town's sheriff, played by Robert H. Harris, is skeptical and is determined to prove that Irene is guilty.

The episode is a classic example of Hitchcock's suspenseful storytelling. The setting of the foggy, isolated town adds to the tension, making it feel as if the characters are trapped in a nightmare. The audience is never quite sure whether Irene is telling the truth or if she's hiding something. The investigation into George's death is expertly done, with plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers guessing.

One of the most impressive aspects of the episode is the acting. Anne Bancroft gives a standout performance as a woman on the edge, desperate to escape an abusive marriage. Her portrayal of Irene is sympathetic yet unsettling, and she keeps the audience guessing until the very end. John Cassavetes is equally impressive in his role as the volatile George. His rage and paranoia are palpable, making him a formidable antagonist.

Overall, "Fog Closing In" is a compelling episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents that showcases the master storyteller's ability to create tension and suspense. The setting, acting, and plot all come together seamlessly to create a memorable viewing experience that will stay with audiences long after the credits roll.