No question Alfred Hitchcock was a fan of Claude Rains, and he took some time out to craft this special episode. It shows. One of the absolute best, an episode that is poignant and kind of fun, a bit offbeat for the series, but who is going to complain, right?
Claude Rains, truly a legend, plays Father Amion, beset with a church that is literally falling apart and very little money. His luck changes, though, with the appearance of a parishioner called Mr. Sheriden (well played by Ed Gardner). Sheriden is a gambler --but who also believes in prayer. The prayers seem to work when he plays the ponies and is winning a fortune!
What to do? Why not share the wealth with Father Amion? Should the father place a bet? What a dare, and what a predicament to be in!
A fabulous story, and the acting just marvelous.
Hitch had to have a few chuckles with Claude Rains behind the scenes. Also Ed Gardner is fun to watch, a long time radio personality and character actor, once married to Shirley Booth. Look for popular comedy actor Percy Helton, who was everywhere in movies and tv.
A memorable Christmas tale, even when it's NOT Xmas! SEASON 6 EPISODE 22 remastered dvd box set by Universal. Keep watch on prices, as some of the later series box sets tend to be more expensive.