As a lifelong fan of classic television and a connoisseur of the strange and fantastical, I can wholeheartedly attest that “The Night of the Meek” from The Twilight Zone is one of the most heartwarming and thought-provoking episodes in the entire series. Having grown up watching reruns of this iconic show on weekend afternoons, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Rod Serling’s ability to weave together tales that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
As a gamer immersed in the captivating world of SYFY’s The Twilight Zone, I can say that the anthology format offers an unprecedented creative freedom. This allows the brilliant mind of Rod Serling and his team to explore any concept or storyline they find intriguing enough to develop into a full episode. These ideas can range from grand, encompassing themes to highly specific, intricate tales – all waiting for us viewers to unravel each week.
For the iconic Christmas episode of “The Twilight Zone,” Rod Serling had a particularly distinct wish for his show, if you will.
For More on The Twilight Zone
The Reason Behind the Lengthier Episodes in Season 4 of The Twilight Zone and Why It Returned to Shorter Format: A Look at Its Unsettling Storytelling Technique, Similar to Columbo’s Role as Fidel Castro
How The Twilight Zone gifted us the Christmas episode, “The Night of the Meek”
Two days before Christmas in 1960, “The Night of the Meek” tells the story of an unemployed, tipsy man who has recently lost his temporary job as a department store Santa Claus. While still dressed as Santa, he stumbles upon a magical bag that grants any wish made by its holder. Delighted with his discovery, the man begins to grant wishes for others, without asking for anything in return, ultimately experiencing a holiday joy beyond his wildest dreams.
Based on producer Buck Houghton’s explanation, the episode didn’t stem from the enchanting Santa sack concept that Rod Serling had. Instead, it originated from a particular casting decision.
Occasionally, Rod would express great excitement, as Houghton recounted in Marc Zicree’s “The Twilight Zone Companion”. He’d occasionally tell himself or others, including me or Carol, that he took a liking to someone. There was a Christmas episode we produced solely because Rod wanted to see Art Carney portray Santa Claus.
In a career spanning over two decades, Carney had earned recognition as a talented comedian and actor. Notably, he played the role of Ed Norton, Ralph Kramden’s best friend, in the popular 1950s sitcom “The Honeymooners.” Later, Rod Serling saw Carney’s unique blend of sincerity and humor and cast him as Henry Corwin, the potential Santa Claus in an episode.
Serling’s hunch was accurate. Carney’s knack for portraying the character as a down-on-his-luck drunk and a kindly gift-giver was perfect, making “The Night of the Meek” not only a cherished episode of The Twilight Zone, but a timeless holiday favorite that viewers continue to watch every December. This onscreen performance was mirrored behind the scenes as well. As Lillian Gallo, the production designer, recalled, when the episode was filmed just before Christmas, the set was filled with joy and holiday spirit. It was one of the six Season 2 episodes shot on videotape.
In a statement, as reported by “The Twilight Zone Companion”, Gallo shared that there were more child performers acting as extras on that specific show compared to others, and he vividly recalls their enthusiasm and happiness. On occasion, it was challenging for them to keep quiet when silence was required during the show’s filming. The overall atmosphere during that shooting schedule was noticeably unique.
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2024-12-13 22:01