Podcast Summary: Case Closed! (Old Time Radio) – Episode: Spade and Marlowe

Release Date: December 4, 2024
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
Description: Crime stories from the golden age of radio. Old Time Radio is filled with cops, robbers, and private investigators... Let’s reopen the cases and hear these great stories again!

1. The Adventures of Sam Spade: The Lazarus Caper

Timestamp: [00:11 - 34:45]

Overview:
In this riveting installment of "The Adventures of Sam Spade," the iconic detective Sam Spade navigates a complex case involving insurance fraud, deception, and a mysterious resurrection. The story delves into the life of Timothy R. Lazarus, presumed dead, and his entanglement with his wife, Emma R. Lazarus, and the enigmatic Dr. Ernst Wilhelm.

Key Characters:

• Sam Spade (Howard Duff): The sharp and unyielding private detective.
• Emma Lazarus Wilhelm (Laurene Tuttle): Timothy’s wife, who collected an insurance payout under the guise of his death.
• Timothy R. Lazarus: Presumed dead, seeking to reclaim his life and expose the fraud.
• Dr. Ernst Wilhelm: A manipulative figure connected to the Lazarus case.

Plot Points:

• The Case Begins:
  Timothy Lazarus approaches Sam Spade, claiming he was wrongfully declared dead after absconding from an embezzlement scandal. [05:30]
  “I want you to bring me back from the dead,” Lazarus insists, outlining his plan to expose his wife’s deceit and reclaim his life.

• Unraveling the Fraud:
  Spade dives into the investigation, uncovering that Timothy and Emma concocted a scheme to collect a $100,000 insurance payout by faking Timothy’s death. [12:15]
  “We made our plans that night, and I left for Mexico the following day,” explains Timothy.

• Encounter with Emma:
  Spade confronts Emma Wilhelm, who reveals her suspicions about Timothy’s return. Her revelation hints at deeper layers of the fraud and introduces Dr. Ernst Wilhelm’s sinister role. [18:45]
  “He doesn't want money... He wants you,” Spade deduces, identifying Ernst’s true intentions.

• The Confrontation:
  As Spade gets closer to the truth, Dr. Wilhelm attempts to manipulate and intimidate both Spade and the Lazurus. A tense standoff ensues, leading to a critical showdown where Spade must use his wits to expose the fraudsters. [28:20]
  “You are responsible for whatever happens to me or anyone else you involve,” warns Emma as the tension escalates.

• Resolution:
  Through meticulous investigation and confrontational tactics, Sam Spade brings the culprits to justice, ensuring that Emma and Ernst face the consequences of their deceit. Timothy Lazarus’s name is cleared, and the intricate web of lies unravels. [34:00]

Notable Quotes:

• “I want you to bring me back from the dead.” — Timothy R. Lazarus [05:30]
• “He doesn't want money... He wants you.” — Sam Spade [18:45]
• “You are responsible for whatever happens to me or anyone else you involve.” — Emma Wilhelm [28:20]

2. The Adventures of Philip Marlowe: The Monkey's Uncle

Timestamp: [34:46 - 1:20:00]

Overview:
Transitioning to the world of Philip Marlowe, Raymond Chandler’s quintessential private eye, this segment titled "The Monkey's Uncle" immerses listeners in a bizarre case involving a phony English lord, a trained chimpanzee named Cornelius, and a murder at a freight house. Marlowe's sharp instincts and relentless pursuit of the truth unravel a tangled web of deceit and criminality.

Key Characters:

• Philip Marlowe (Gerald Moore): The astute and determined private detective.
• Wesley MacDuff: A frantic informant seeking Marlowe’s help to save Cornelius, his prized chimpanzee.
• Lord Ashley Duke (Tompkins): A deceptive aristocrat entangled in a fraudulent scheme.
• Merle Brimmer (Mary Lansing): Ashley’s manipulative niece with a hidden agenda.
• Cornelius: A trained chimpanzee central to the unfolding mystery.

Plot Points:

• The Mysterious Call:
  Wesley MacDuff contacts Philip Marlowe, urgently requesting his assistance to protect Cornelius from impending danger. [35:10]
  “Life is in danger, man, and time means everything,” MacDuff pleads.

• Investigating Ashley Duke:
  Marlowe delves into the background of Lord Ashley Duke, uncovering inconsistencies and suspicious activities surrounding the so-called English lord. [42:00]
  “He's a phony. His real name is Bert Dukes,” Marlowe discovers through overheard conversations.

• The Freight House Incident:
  A murder unfolds at the freight house involving Merle Brimmer, whose death appears to be a staged suicide. Marlowe’s keen observation hints at foul play. [58:30]
  “I didn’t believe it,” Marlowe thinks, questioning the authenticity of the suicide scene.

• Uncovering the Truth:
  Through strategic manipulation and forging documents, Marlowe traps Dr. Wilhelm into a confrontation, exposing his involvement in the scam and the murder. [1:05:20]
  “With him alive and all this proof of identity, he’s in a position to nail both of you for fraud,” Marlowe asserts.

• Final Showdown:
  The climax sees Marlowe face off against Lord Ashley Duke and his accomplices, utilizing the evidence he meticulously gathered to ensure they face justice. [1:18:50]
  “A genuine old Scot who loved life and his shuffling friend whose only limitation was his inability to speak,” Marlowe reflects on his adversaries.

Notable Quotes:

• “Life is in danger, man, and time means everything.” — Wesley MacDuff [35:10]
• “He's a phony. His real name is Bert Dukes.” — Philip Marlowe [42:00]
• “I didn’t believe it,” — Philip Marlowe [58:30]
• “With him alive and all this proof of identity, he’s in a position to nail both of you for fraud.” — Philip Marlowe [1:05:20]
• “A genuine old Scot who loved life and his shuffling friend whose only limitation was his inability to speak.” — Philip Marlowe [1:18:50]

3. Production and Additional Insights

Timestamp: [1:20:01 - End]

Behind the Scenes:
Both narratives are masterfully produced and directed, featuring stellar performances that bring the golden age of radio crime dramas to life. Howard Duff’s portrayal of Sam Spade and Gerald Moore’s rendition of Philip Marlowe stand out, capturing the essence of these legendary detectives.

Production Credits:

• Producer/Director: William Spear (Sam Spade) | Norman Macdonald (Philip Marlowe)
• Writers: Bob Talman and Gil Down (Sam Spade) | Robert Mitchell and Gene Levitt (Philip Marlowe)
• Musical Direction: Ludgate and Richard Arundt
• Notable Cast Members: Laurene Tuttle, John Danar, Tudor Owen, Sam Edwards, Michael Ann Barrett, Harry Bartel, Junius Matthews, and others.

Notable Highlights:

• Sam Spade’s Case:
  Sam Spade’s unwavering dedication and ethical stance are emphasized, particularly in his refusal to succumb to personal sympathies, famously stating, “Of course. Surely you didn't believe a word of his story.” [00:00:45]

• Philip Marlowe’s Investigation:
  Marlowe’s relentless pursuit of the truth and his ability to navigate through deceptions are highlighted, culminating in his insightful deduction regarding Lord Ashley Duke’s fraudulent activities. [1:10:30]

Endearing Elements:
Interspersed with the captivating stories are nostalgic advertisements for Wild Root Cream Oil Hair Tonic, seamlessly integrated into the narrative, preserving the authentic old-time radio feel.

Conclusion:
This episode of "Case Closed!" masterfully resurrects classic crime tales, offering listeners a rich tapestry of mystery, suspense, and investigative brilliance through the adventures of Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to old-time radio dramas, this episode promises an engaging and immersive experience.

Final Quote: “Crime is a sucker's road, and those who travel it wind up in the gut of the prison or the grave.” — CBS Narrator [Throughout the episode]

Recommendation:
For enthusiasts of classic detective stories and vintage radio productions, this episode of "Case Closed!" delivers compelling narratives and exceptional performances that honor the legacy of Sam Spade and Philip Marlowe.