"I Saw the Whole Thing" was only the fourth episode of THE ALFRED HITCHCOCK HOUR, and, incredibly, the only one directed by Hitch himself. Then best known for BACHELOR FATHER, John Forsythe stars as crime author Michael Barnes, who turns himself in the morning after a hit-and-run accident at a busy intersection involving a motorcyclist who suffers a concussion and some broken bones. Deciding to represent himself, Barnes is greatly concerned about his pregnant wife, hospitalized for the duration of the trial and unaware of his plight, which grows even more perilous when it begins with the sad news that the victim has succumbed to his injuries. There are a multitude of eyewitnesses who all claim "I saw the whole thing," but under insightful questioning from Barnes prove to be not entirely reliable, except for one motorist (John Fiedler) whose insistent testimony cannot be shaken. Like the best episodes, there is a final twist that makes a great show truly unforgettable. Forsythe was a fine choice for the role, never losing audience sympathy no matter the difficulty he puts himself through. Willis Bouchey plays the presiding judge, John Zaremba is the prosecutor, and Kent Smith plays Barnes' friend and confidant.
Review of I Saw the Whole Thing
