Escape – The Log of the Evening Star (1948) | Jack Webb

Описание: The Log of the Evening Star (1948) is a classic episode of Escape, featuring a psychological narrative rooted in maritime isolation. Written by Robert Tallman and hosted by William Conrad, this broadcast exemplifies the artistry of mid-20th-century radio storytelling.

🎙️ Program: Escape
Episode: #32 - The Log of the Evening Star
Original Air Date: March 14, 1948
Genre: Adventure / Psychological Thriller
Running Time: 30 minutes
Host: William Conrad

The story follows the harrowing voyage of the Evening Star, a merchant vessel carrying a cargo of volatile chemicals. When the ship becomes trapped in a windless doldrum, tensions among the small crew escalate to a breaking point. The captain's sanity begins to unravel as he becomes obsessed with the ship's log and a perceived supernatural influence. The narrative is framed through the perspective of a survivor who recounts the descent into paranoia, mutiny, and the ultimate destruction of the vessel. The episode masterfully utilizes sound effects and atmosphere to convey the oppressive heat and psychological decay experienced by the sailors in their desperate situation.

👇 Find More Shows You'll Love:

🐈‍⬛    • CBS Radio Mystery Theater  
🚀    • X Minus One  
🎭    • Escape  
📻    • Suspense Radio Show  

🎭 Starring Cast
• Jack Webb: Known for his work in Dragnet and frequent roles in hardboiled radio dramas.
• William Conrad: Experienced radio actor who served as the primary narrator for Escape.
• Wilms Herbert: Character actor who appeared regularly in series like Richard Diamond, Private Detective.
• Jeff Corey: Active radio and film performer during the 1940s and 1950s.

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📻 Production Notes & Historical Context
• This script was written by Robert Tallman, who frequently contributed to high-tension series like Suspense.
• Escape was conceived as a sister program to Suspense, focusing on 'man against nature' themes.
• The sound effects team used complex Foley techniques to simulate the creaking of a becalmed wooden ship.

💬 Character Quote
"The sea is as flat as a sheet of glass, and just as empty. If the wind doesn't pick up soon, the heat will drive every man on this deck to the edge of the abyss."

📡 Broadcasting History
In the early days of radio, glass-base transcription discs were used because of aluminum shortages during World War II, despite being extremely fragile and prone to shattering.

📻 Vintage Radio Spotlight
Zenith Model 6-S-229 (1938). This tombstone style radio features a walnut veneer cabinet and a large black dial. It utilizes a 6-tube chassis and receives both AM and shortwave bands. Slogan: Zenith: The Quality Goes In Before The Name Goes On.

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