Ep 8. The Trap

One Step Beyond is a classic television show that aired in the late 50s and early 60s. Each episode is a standalone story that explores the supernatural and paranormal while also examining themes of human nature. In season 3 episode 8, titled The Trap, we follow the story of a man who is trapped in a small room with no way out.

The episode begins with a man named Henry residing in a small apartment. He is a recluse and spends most of his time reading and painting. One day, Henry receives a mysterious phone call from a woman who claims to have seen his artwork and wants to purchase one of his paintings. Henry is thrilled to have a potential buyer and invites the woman over to his apartment.

When the woman arrives, she introduces herself as Mrs. Beardsley. Henry shows her his paintings, and she selects a piece that she wants to buy. However, after the transaction is complete, Mrs. Beardsley refuses to leave Henry's apartment. She insists on staying and talking to Henry, despite his repeated attempts to get her to leave.

As the night wears on, Henry becomes increasingly uncomfortable with Mrs. Beardsley's presence. He tries to leave the room, but she blocks his path. Henry then realizes that the door to his room is locked. He is trapped.

Over the course of the episode, Henry tries various methods to escape, such as breaking down the door and communicating with his neighbors for help. However, nothing seems to work. Mrs. Beardsley continues to exert control over him and refuses to let him leave.

As time goes on, Henry's mental state deteriorates. He becomes increasingly desperate and begins to question his own sanity. He starts to wonder if he is experiencing a hallucination or if Mrs. Beardsley is a figment of his imagination.

The tension builds as Henry's situation becomes increasingly dire. Will he ever be able to escape from the trap that Mrs. Beardsley has set for him?

Overall, The Trap is a suspenseful and thrilling episode that explores the themes of power, control, and manipulation. It provides a thought-provoking look at human nature and the lengths that people will go to achieve their desires. As with all episodes of One Step Beyond, it leaves the viewer with much to ponder and contemplate long after the credits have rolled.