Eye of the Beholder

Among many fans, the standout episode of “The Twilight Zone” is one that aired during its early seasons, leaving an impact not only on episodes before it but also those that followed. Although Rod Serling’s groundbreaking anthology series was filled with memorable moments, an episode from season 2 has steadily gained recognition as the best among them for both critical acclaim and timeless relevance. It wasn’t just a clever plot twist or spine-tingling concept that made it a classic of television history; it was the seamless integration of its narrative, acting, and eerie visual design.

The sixth episode in Season 2, titled ‘Eye of the Beholder,’ showcases the groundbreaking elements that made ‘The Twilight Zone’ iconic. This story employs thought-provoking science fiction to delve into timeless themes such as conformity, beauty, and self-identity. These topics resonate just as deeply today as they did in 1960. What sets this episode apart is the fact that its visuals and emotional depth have endured remarkably well over time. While many episodes from ‘The Twilight Zone’ are still admired, ‘Eye of the Beholder’ stands alone as the highest-rated episode ever aired, and it truly deserves this recognition.

“Eye Of The Beholder” Is The Twilight Zone’s Highest-Rated Episode

The Haunting Season 2 Installment Ranks Higher Than Any Other In The Original Series

Among many beloved episodes of “The Twilight Zone”, such as “Nightmare at 20,000 Feet” and “Time Enough at Last”, it’s the episode “Eye of the Beholder” that currently ranks highest on IMDb. This episode, broadcast on November 11, 1960 during Season 2, has not only become iconic, but also serves as a testament to the show’s potential for greatness at its peak.

The title “Eye of the Beholder” revolves around Janet Tyler (Maxine Stuart), a woman preparing for her last, transformative surgical procedure to appear “normal.” Wrapped up in bandages and concealed from the audience, she nervously waits for the outcome. Simultaneously, medical staff murmur cryptically about her case, intentionally withholding information. Finally, when the bandages come off, a surprising revelation unfolds – together with one of the most indelible images ever depicted on television.

The title “Eye of the Beholder” challenges societal norms of beauty in a profound manner. It presents a chilling contemplation on what it signifies to be unique in a world that yearns for uniformity. In just 25 minutes, this episode powerfully conveys its message while astonishing viewers with its stunning cinematography and pioneering practical effects. For devoted fans, it’s no secret that “Eye of the Beholder” is considered the best The Twilight Zone episode, and its reputation only grows stronger as time passes and its message gains even greater relevance.

“Eye Of The Beholder’s” Makeup And Practical Effects Are Still Impressive

The Episode’s Shocking Visuals Still Hold Up More Than 60 Years Later

One reason why “Eye of the Beholder” is often hailed as the best and most terrifying episode of The Twilight Zone lies in its ability to create a believable world using practical effects and clever camera work. Directed by Douglas Heyes, this episode skillfully employs shadows, tight framing, and a visual style that borders on claustrophobic to keep the characters’ appearances hidden until necessary. This deliberate choice not only enhances the suspense, it also ensures that the episode remains visually impactful even by today’s standards.

In this episode, the makeup designed by William J. Tuttle, who is known for his work on “Singing in the Rain” and “The Wizard of Oz”, significantly contributes to its lasting impression. When the climactic moment arrives, viewers are confronted with a striking and indelible image – the apparently normal inhabitants of this society have twisted, snout-like faces that starkly contrast with the “deformed” character Janet, whose appearance conforms to conventional beauty ideals. This visual reversal is not just clever, it’s emotionally wrenching. The prosthetics, created before the advent of CGI or modern digital enhancement, still appear unsettling and stylistically grotesque, contributing to the story’s themes in a way that more advanced effects might have oversimplified.

Approximately six decades on, “Eye of the Beholder” continues to stand out as a testament to the fact that simplicity and skillful construction often lead to superior outcomes compared to overly flashy, mass-produced visuals. The show’s subtlety, in terms of how it presents its universe and delivers its message, ensures that the makeup and set designs have a more profound impact than any jump scare or digital effect could ever achieve. It’s hardly surprising that this episode is considered the best from “The Twilight Zone” – it was thought-provoking in the 1960s and remains so in the 2020s.

“Eye Of The Beholder” Was Remade In 2003

The 2000s Revival Couldn’t Quite Capture The Same Magic

It’s not surprising that “Eye of the Beholder,” often hailed as the finest The Twilight Zone episode, was chosen for a reboot during the brief 2002-2003 return of the series. In this new adaptation, Molly Sims played Janet Tyler, with the storyline adapted to appeal to contemporary audiences. The basic plot structure and surprising twist were preserved, but the presentation took on a more stylized visual approach and a sleeker, modern aesthetic.

The modern take on “Eye of the Beholder” was well-executed, but it failed to evoke the intense anxiety and subtle dread that characterized the 1960 version. Despite this, it remains one of the standout episodes from the 2000s revival of “The Twilight Zone,” demonstrating the enduring influence of the original narrative.

Back in 2019, when Jordan Peele took on the challenge of reviving “The Twilight Zone,” I found it intriguing that he didn’t decide to revisit the classic episode, “Eye of the Beholder.” Maybe this choice hints at the fact that the original still stands unrivaled. Frankly, it’s a tall order to surpass perfection, and in this instance, no one has managed to come even close to touching the greatness of the finest “Twilight Zone” episode ever produced.

2025-05-26 18:17