Escape – The Power of Hammer (1950)

Описание: The Power of Hammer (1950) is a classic episode of Escape, featuring a psychological narrative rooted in obsession and isolation. Written by Nelson Bond and hosted by William Conrad, this broadcast exemplifies the artistry of mid-20th-century radio storytelling.

🎙️ Program: Escape
Episode: #128 - The Power of Hammer
Original Air Date: October 15, 1950
Genre: Psychological Thriller
Running Time: 30:00
Host: William Conrad

Set in a remote desert location, the story follows a scientist named Hammer who has developed a revolutionary and terrifying power: the ability to project his thoughts and control the actions of others. As he descends into megalomania, his colleagues and those around him become pawns in a dangerous game of psychological dominance. The narrative explores the ethics of scientific advancement and the corruption of absolute power, culminating in a tense confrontation where the limits of the human mind are tested against a force that threatens to consume everyone involved.

🎭 Starring Cast
• Paul Frees: Veteran radio performer active during the 1940s and 1950s, frequently heard on Escape and Suspense.
• Georgia Ellis: Known for frequent appearances in Gunsmoke and various CBS anthology series.
• Ben Wright: British actor who appeared in numerous radio dramas including Pursuit and The New Adventures of Sherlock Holmes.
• Sam Edwards: Prolific voice actor in radio, television, and film throughout the mid-20th century.

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📻 Production Notes & Historical Context
• The script was adapted from a short story by Nelson Bond, a noted science fiction author.
• William Conrad, who hosted this episode, also played the role of Matt Dillon in the radio version of Gunsmoke.
• Escape was often considered the 'sister show' to Suspense, focusing more on adventure and high-stakes survival.
• The episode utilizes complex sound effects to represent the mental projections and psychic atmosphere described in the plot.

💬 Character Quote
"You don't understand, do you? I am no longer just a man with a theory. I am the theory made manifest, and your thoughts are mine to command."

📡 Broadcasting History
During the Golden Age of Radio, many sound effects were created live in the studio using everyday objects, such as crushed cellophane for fire or a heavy metal sheet for thunder.

📻 Vintage Radio Spotlight
RCA Victor Model 45-EY-2 (1950). This was a compact record player and radio combination specifically designed for the 45-RPM record format. It featured a sleek Bakelite cabinet, a built-in amplifier, and was marketed with the slogan 'The World's Greatest Artists are on RCA Victor Records'.

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#OldTimeRadio #Escape #RadioDrama #VintageRadio #ScienceFiction #PsychologicalThriller #GoldenAgeOfRadio #1950sRadio #RadioHistory #WilliamConrad #AudioDrama #ClassicBroadcast