Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Saint 1951-02-04 The Carnival Murder
Release Date: June 6, 2025
Introduction
In this captivating episode of "The Carnival Murder," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, immersing themselves in a thrilling mystery set within the enigmatic world of a traveling carnival. Vincent Price masterfully portrays Simon Templer (The Saint), a suave and astute detective, as he navigates through deceit, danger, and dark secrets to uncover the truth behind a series of suspicious deaths associated with the carnival's famed "buried alive" attraction.
Plot Overview
The story unfolds at a bustling carnival where the centerpiece attraction is Mona, a young woman buried alive in a simulated grave for the entertainment of attendees. Simon Templer arrives at the carnival under the guise of a regular customer, keenly interested in the enigmatic resurrection of Mona, who is now attempting to break the world record for being buried alive.
Key Characters:
- Simon Templer (The Saint): The protagonist detective.
- Bea St. Clair: Owner of the carnival.
- Frankie Fowler: Mona's husband and carnival performer.
- Segundo: The carnival's strongman.
- Carlos: A dwarf performer longing for connection.
- Mona: The "buried alive" attraction.
- Angie: Mona's deceased sister, formerly involved in the act.
Key Interactions and Investigations
Initial Curiosity and Suspicion
Simon Templer engages with the carnival's carnival barker, Sheldon Leonard, probing into the eerie attraction:
Carnival Barker (Sheldon Leonard): “[00:02] ...the courageous girl who lies buried alive 20ft below the surface of the earth...”
Simon’s interest deepens as he notices Mona's unease during their interaction:
Mona (Mary Ship): “[03:52] Frankie, you gotta get me out of here. I'm going crazy down here. I'm scared.”
Realizing Mona’s distress is more profound than the act suggests, Simon decides to investigate further.
Confrontation with Carnival Staff
Simon approaches Bea St. Clair to inquire about Mona and her sister Angie:
Simon Templer: “[06:57] ...I’m interested in Angie.”
Bea St. Clair: “[07:07] ...Angie was one of them. Now she's gone and the crumbs remain.”
Bea reveals that Angie died of a weak heart while performing the same act, hinting at foul play, which heightens Simon's suspicions.
Investigating Frankie Fowler
Simon meets Frankie Fowler to delve into his relationship with Angie and Mona:
Simon Templer: “[09:01] ...I’ve always been interested in tattoos...”
Frankie Fowler (Harry Bartel): “[09:19] ...Angie was my wife. Wonderful girl.”
As their conversation progresses, Simon uncovers inconsistencies in Frankie's account, especially regarding Angie’s death and his swift remarriage to Mona:
Simon Templer: “[23:06] ...you kill Angie with poison.”
Frankie Fowler: “[23:17] ...I didn’t kill Angie. It was a weak heart.”
Climactic Confrontation
Tensions escalate when Simon confronts Frankie with evidence linking him to Angie's poisoning:
Simon Templer: “[23:22] ...You couldn't pull anything all the way. Smart. It was only half smart, and that can be fatal.”
Frankie Fowler: “[24:07] ...The poison showed up in Mona's stomach.”
A heated altercation ensues, resulting in physical confrontations where Segundo initially sides with Frankie but ultimately aids Simon in subduing him.
Resolution
With Frankie apprehended, Simon ensures Mona's safety and the disbandment of the deceitful act. The episode concludes with Mona’s escape from her simulated grave, symbolizing liberation from the carnival's dark legacy.
Notable Quotes:
- Simon Templer: “[23:06] ...you kill Angie with poison.”
- Frankie Fowler: “[23:17] ...I didn’t kill Angie. It was a weak heart.”
- Carnival Barker: “[17:51] Hurry.”
Themes and Insights
"The Carnival Murder" delves into themes of deception, the allure of spectacle, and the quest for truth. Through Simon Templer's meticulous investigation, the episode underscores the importance of looking beyond appearances to uncover hidden truths. The carnival serves as a microcosm of society, where facade and reality often collide, leading to dramatic revelations.
Conclusion
This episode of "The Saint" masterfully blends suspense, intrigue, and classic radio storytelling to present a memorable adventure. Vincent Price's portrayal of Simon Templer brings depth and charisma to the detective figure, making "The Carnival Murder" a standout installment in the series. For listeners who relish intricate mysteries and rich character dynamics, this episode offers a compelling and immersive experience reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Carnival Barker: “[01:29] ...Robin Hood of modern crime now comes transcribed to radio...”
- Mona: “[03:52] Frankie, you gotta get me out of here. I'm going crazy down here. I'm scared."
- Bea St. Clair: “[07:05] ...Angie was one of them. Now she's gone and the crumbs remain.”
- Simon Templer: “[23:06] ...you kill Angie with poison.”
- Frankie Fowler: “[23:17] ...I didn’t kill Angie. It was a weak heart.”
This detailed summary captures the essence of "The Carnival Murder," highlighting pivotal moments, character developments, and the unraveling mystery that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.