Ep 17. Whisper of Evil

In the seventeenth episode of the first season of Rod Serling's Night Gallery, titled "Whisper of Evil," viewers are taken on a suspenseful journey into the eerie and mysterious. Filled with chilling atmosphere and unexpected twists, this episode will keep you on the edge of your seat.

"Whisper of Evil" introduces us to a seemingly ordinary suburban neighborhood, where the residents lead peaceful lives. However, beneath the facade of normalcy lies a deep and unsettling secret that will leave viewers questioning the nature of evil itself.

The episode opens with the introduction of Will, a troubled teenager portrayed by actor Ted Bessell. Will, a sensitive and thoughtful young man, begins to experience bizarre and unexplainable occurrences. He hears sinister whispers in the halls of his house, sees fleeting glimpses of shadowy figures, and becomes increasingly convinced that a malevolent presence is haunting him.

Concerned for their son's well-being, Will's parents, played by actresses Diane Baker and Bradford Dillman, seek the help of Dr. Eric Lansing, an empathetic psychologist portrayed by actor Barry Sullivan. Dr. Lansing delves into the depths of Will's psyche, searching for answers to the mysterious events plaguing the young man's life. As he delves deeper, the line between reality and the supernatural begins to blur.

The episode takes an unexpected turn as we are introduced to Miss Pateman, a seemingly innocuous elderly woman portrayed by actress Mildred Dunnock. Miss Pateman is hired by the family as a caretaker for their ailing grandmother, and her arrival introduces an additional layer of mystery to the narrative. Will's suspicions are immediately aroused by Miss Pateman's presence, and he becomes convinced that she is somehow connected to the sinister force that plagues him.

As the story unfolds, viewers are drawn into a complex web of secrets, deception, and supernatural occurrences. As Will's paranoia escalates, he begins to question the motives and intentions of everyone around him. Is he truly being tormented by an otherworldly entity? Or could it be that his own mind is playing tricks on him?

"Whisper of Evil" expertly combines psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating an unsettling and suspenseful atmosphere throughout the episode. Director Jeannot Szwarc skillfully builds tension by employing evocative cinematography and a haunting musical score, further enhancing the eerie tone of the narrative.

The performances in this episode are exceptional, with each actor delivering nuanced and believable portrayals of their respective characters. Ted Bessell captures Will's vulnerability and fear brilliantly, while Barry Sullivan brings depth and compassion to the role of Dr. Lansing. The supporting cast, including Diane Baker, Bradford Dillman, and Mildred Dunnock, contribute stellar performances that add layers of complexity to the story.

"Whisper of Evil" is a thought-provoking episode that explores themes of paranoia, sanity, and the nature of evil. It challenges viewers to question their own perceptions of reality and consider the dark forces that may lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.

With its compelling storyline, exceptional performances, and eerie atmosphere, "Whisper of Evil" is a standout episode of Rod Serling's Night Gallery. Fans of supernatural suspense and psychological horror will be captivated by the episode's twists and turns, eagerly awaiting the shocking conclusion. Prepare to be enthralled as you embark on a journey into the unknown in this mesmerizing installment of Night Gallery.