
The Saint - 49-09-18 - The Color-Blind Killer
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Barbara Brooks
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Vincent Price
The Adventures of the Saint Starring Vincent Price the Saint Based on characters created by Leslie Charteris and known to millions from books, magazines and motion pictures. The Robin Hood of modern crime now comes to radio starring Hollywood's brilliant and talented actor Vincent Price as the Saint.
Simon Templar
Hello. Who is. How is my favorite shipboard acquaintance this evening?
Barbara Brooks
Oh, Simon. You startled me. Could hardly see you through the fog here on deck.
Simon Templar
Yes, it is getting thicker, isn't it? But I suppose it's to be expected. Last night nature went on a binge of moonshine and this is her foggy morning after.
Barbara Brooks
Only it's evening.
Simon Templar
How can you tell through the fog? You know, you have a very pretty laugh, Barbara. I'll listen for it in all of your pictures from now on.
Barbara Brooks
Thank you, Simon, but I'm. I'm not going to make any more pictures. I'm retiring.
Simon Templar
Retiring? At the peak of your career?
Barbara Brooks
I'm just tired of pictures at all.
Simon Templar
Barbara, you'll never be able to run away from it.
Barbara Brooks
What do you mean?
Simon Templar
I'm referring to whatever it is that frightens you. Why don't you tell me about it?
Barbara Brooks
Barbara, there's nothing to tell. I'm. I'm tired. I need a rest. Please, Simon, don't make me talk about it. There some things that. Simon, is that someone standing there?
Simon Templar
No, no, I don't see anyone. You are nervous, Simon.
Barbara Brooks
If only I could confide in someone. If I could tell you what.
Simon Templar
Perhaps I already know more than you think I do. You're cold. Where's your raft?
Barbara Brooks
It's over there someplace. On one of those deck trees.
Simon Templar
I'll find it. I don't see it here. Barbara, are you sure you. Barbara. Behind you. Look out.
Dr. Norman
Barbara.
Simon Templar
Barbara. Man overboard. Man overboard. Maybe you'd like a swim too. Scene.
Dr. Norman
What? Oh, Mr. Templer. Mr. Templer.
Simon Templar
Oh, hello. I suppose the usual question is where am I?
Dr. Norman
Sometimes they awaken from your type of custom made coma asking who am I?
Simon Templar
Evidently I wasn't hit quite that hard. I even remember who? You are Dr. Norman. It is Dr. Norman, the celebrated psychiatrist, isn't it?
Dr. Norman
Yes, that is very good, Dimple. But I'm afraid I must still confine you here to the ship's infirmary for a while. A possible concussion.
Simon Templar
Tell me, what makes a famous neurologist like you pose as mere ship's doctor?
Dr. Norman
I'm really not posing, Partridge. The ship's position is ill. I was within earshot when I heard the familiar call. Is there a doctor in the house? And no, Simon, don't try to get up. I have a flask.
Simon Templar
Here.
Dr. Norman
A drink will make you happy.
Simon Templar
Oh, not right now, thank you. I recall I have some unfinished business to attend to.
Dr. Norman
Babylon.
Simon Templar
Yes. Was she.
Dr. Norman
They couldn't find her in the fog. She told poor Barbara. Yes. It was a horrible accident.
Simon Templar
Horrible, yes. Accident, no.
Dr. Norman
You mean to say she didn't fall overboard?
Simon Templar
She was murdered. Murdered?
Dr. Norman
But who?
Simon Templar
I think I know. In my head, it feels like the Aberdeen Proving Ground.
Dr. Norman
I will mix you a sedative. You know, you're not looking very well.
Simon Templar
I always look like this when I'm angry. There's only one cure.
Dr. Norman
Yes, I know. The lady with the scales known as. You know, Tipler, I've been curious about what makes a man like you tick.
Simon Templar
Well, I'll tell you. Every eight days or so, someone winds me up. Right now, I'm wound up tight. Tight with fury.
Dr. Norman
Well, if a psychiatrist. I would advise you to unwind. Here we are.
Simon Templar
Now, drink this.
Dr. Norman
It will put you to sleep after.
Simon Templar
Thank you.
Dr. Norman
You say you think you know who killed Barbara?
Simon Templar
Simon, I was wrong. I do know.
Dr. Norman
But I think you ought to talk to me. Unwind yourself.
Simon Templar
You think I need psychiatry, doctor?
Dr. Norman
Well, I think you're too taut at the moment. That, plus your concussion, it might be dangerous.
Simon Templar
Very well, doctor. I'll unwind. I'll tell you the entire story, if.
Dr. Norman
You don't mind, Simon. Here, this will help.
Simon Templar
Derision.
Dr. Norman
They met Renault. Psychiatrists often used it.
Simon Templar
But no, no, I don't mind. I'd never met Barbara Brooks. Although I doubt if there's a human being alive who hasn't heard of her or seen her in the movies. I first saw her the day we boarded ship. There was something in her expression, in the way she walked and talked and smiled. That immediately told me here was someone I should know. Her entire demeanor was an attitude of invitation. That old master sphere, Doctor, she was a frightened lady. She wanted someone near her. I walked over to her there on deck and immediately made myself useful. Her steward evidently had become busy elsewhere. So I tipped my hat and said, somewhat idiotically, get your program here, lady. You can't tell the staterooms without the numbers.
Barbara Brooks
I beg your pardon.
Simon Templar
Your stewards, please. Seems to have deserted you. I've sailed this scow before. So if it's the direction to your.
Barbara Brooks
Stateroom you're looking for, well, I would like to know.
Simon Templar
I would too. Number, please.
Barbara Brooks
A36, main deck.
Simon Templar
Thank you very, very much. It's this way. My. My name's Temperance. Simon for short. And of course you're Barbara Brooks. You know, we passed the bar on route to a 36 main deck. There's an Old Fashioned with a new acquaintance down here.
Barbara Brooks
It will a little later appear on the ship.
Simon Templar
Oh, there's several.
Barbara Brooks
He's gone now.
Simon Templar
In the corner, I think I saw the man you meant. Certain off center gentleman named Raider.
Barbara Brooks
Raider? I. I don't know that name.
Simon Templar
No? Surely you've heard of Phil Raider. He's just as big a star in his line of work as you are in yours. What.
Barbara Brooks
What is his line of work?
Simon Templar
Well, he's. He's an exterminator of human beings, Mr. Tyler. I'm afraid that was obvious from the moment I first saw you. Why don't you tell me about it?
Barbara Brooks
No, I can't.
Simon Templar
No.
Barbara Brooks
I'd be killed.
Simon Templar
As good a reason as any for not telling me. But I must warn you, I have a peculiar talent for finding things out for myself.
Barbara Brooks
Oh, no, you mustn't do anything. Please. Please.
Simon Templar
Hello, Raider.
Phil Raider
Well, Mistake? World's getting smaller.
Simon Templar
Yes, yes. But I understand you're doing your share to see that it doesn't get overcrowded. Traveling for your health again or just traveling? Just traveling, Raider. Why does the mere glimpse of you rounding a corner start a lady's teeth to chattering?
Phil Raider
Lady? I don't know any lady.
Simon Templar
Obviously.
Phil Raider
Maybe she thought I was someone else.
Simon Templar
Maybe. And if you're of a mind to annoy her, you'll wish you were.
Phil Raider
Look, Saint, just soak up sunshine on this cruise. Don't go poking in any dark places. Might be bad for you.
Simon Templar
Oh, what sort of bad? Raider?
Phil Raider
Look, big shot, just so there's no misunderstanding, you butt in where you ain't welcome on this cruise and.
Simon Templar
Yes, and I'll kill you.
Dr. Norman
How is your.
Simon Templar
Feels as if a regimental crap game was going on inside of it with jet propelled dice.
Dr. Norman
You haven't drunk your sedative yet.
Simon Templar
Here. Oh, thank you. Shall I go on taking the load off of my concussion?
Dr. Norman
By all means. I think I was present at the Next equation.
Simon Templar
Yes, Doctor, you were. It was the night of that ridiculous costume ball. Ship captains are so fond of arrangements.
Dr. Norman
Yes, I remember. We were at the bar together. You were a pirate, I recall.
Simon Templar
Yes, and you were a clown. The ball was loaded with clowns. Some of them not even aware of their clownishness. But it was gay and sprightly and the music was good. I remember our conversation, Doctor. You suddenly appeared at my elbow and said in the most shivery, sinister manner, do you.
Dr. Norman
You know, Templar, I have a confession to make to you.
Simon Templar
Well, I'm always interested in confessions, Doctor.
Dr. Norman
I've had a schoolboy crush on the beautiful Barbara ever since I saw her in pictures. First tell me, what does one do about it?
Simon Templar
Well, I know exactly what I would do if I were you, Doctor. Yes, I'd consult the nearest psychiatrist at.
Dr. Norman
The prices we charged her. Thanks. I was hoping you'd cut a fellow in on your acquaintanceship templates. But if you won't introduce me, won't you at least show me which mask she's hiding under? I think I might be able to make my own introduction.
Simon Templar
Oh, very well, Doctor. Look for a sylph like figure in a blue and yellow harlequin costume.
Dr. Norman
Thank you, Templar. Thank you. And if you should ever need a.
Simon Templar
Good psychiatrist at the prices you charge.
Dr. Norman
I will be seeing you.
Barbara Brooks
Don't turn around, Mr. Kempler. I have a pistol in the small of your back.
Simon Templar
Now really, is that any way to enjoy a walk?
Barbara Brooks
Listen, Saint, and listen hard.
Simon Templar
I'm all ears. Except for the small of my back, which feels abnormally large at the moment.
Barbara Brooks
Certain arrangements have been made, Saint. It means a big head of lettuce if they go through. So all the signs say. Keep out. See that you do. Now don't turn around. This costume's so pretty, I'd hate to have to put a hole through my pocket.
Simon Templar
Well, it's probably just a coincidence, but I've acquired the same regard for the small of my battle.
Barbara Brooks
Keep regarding it that way, Saint. Don't let your nose wander where it doesn't belong. And you might begin by forgetting you saw certain people aboard this boat.
Simon Templar
See? Just tell me how you're going to swing it, Mrs. Miller. Oh, don't be surprised. I'd recognize the notorious Lil Miller's voice on a party line. How are you gonna take him, Lil? A palm daisy? Or perhaps a marked deck?
Barbara Brooks
This rod has a hair trigger, Saint. Just a touch. And you're Lil.
Simon Templar
Lil.
Barbara Brooks
What's the matter?
Simon Templar
That girl there. I wanted the holiday. Lil. Lil.
Barbara Brooks
You're lucky thing I'd have shot.
Dr. Norman
Give her ear.
Simon Templar
Give her ear. Don't crowd. Crowd her all you want to. She won't mind now, is she? Yes. The stiletto in the back leaves very little doubt she's dead.
Dr. Norman
You know, Simon, I would never have paid the late Mrs. Miller for a professional card shop. She was anything but the type.
Simon Templar
Professional card shops are always anything but the type, doctor.
Dr. Norman
Yeah, and to think I actually played bridge with her myself. With a crook. And a hot headed one at that.
Simon Templar
Well, as my old grandmother used to say, Doctor, beware of lady thieves with red hair.
Dr. Norman
I guess the lady's red hair accounted for the lack of insulation in her temperament.
Simon Templar
Oh.
Dr. Norman
How does your head feel, Simon?
Simon Templar
Better, Doctor. Much better.
Dr. Norman
You still haven't touched your sedative, you know.
Simon Templar
Haven't I?
Dr. Norman
I think you'll find that it helps, Simon. Here.
Simon Templar
Oh, thank you. Well, you know, shortly after the murder of Mrs. Miller, doctor, I called on her bereaved husband and partner in crime. A very interesting visit it was.
Dr. Norman
You have the knack for making all of your visits into this excitement. Tell me about it.
Simon Templar
Well, I found Miller in the bar. Quenching his sorrow with the merry waters of the river of forgetful. 50 grand in the palm of our hands and beep no more Lil no more Lil no more sucker no more sucker. Beep no more. 50 grand. I see you valued your wife highly. Who was the sucker, Miller? You're funny. Tell me, what's still Raider cruising for Miller. And don't tell me it's a coincidence he's on board the same ship. You get funnier and funnier. Why is Barbara Brooks so afraid of Raider? You ain't even warm. Think you're a mile wide of the target. I'd better use a different kind of ammunition then, Miller.
Dr. Norman
Yeah?
Simon Templar
Like what? Like a little murder performed on an unwilling sucker in Reno, huh? Well, you know, about that. You won't like going back to Reno, Miller. It gets hot in the summertime, especially in the penitentiary. Raider was with Willow and me on this deal.
Phil Raider
All right, Miller. Put the zipper on, Raider.
Simon Templar
I wasn't going to say anything, Phil. Honest I was.
Phil Raider
Just skip it, Miller. I always knew someday you'd show Canary yellow. I thought you and I had a little understanding, saint.
Simon Templar
You've got a reputation for wrong thoughts, Raider.
Phil Raider
Yeah, but right or wrong, I back my ideas up to the hilt.
Simon Templar
Keep that frog sticker undercover, Raider, or I might take it away from you and the Dutch courage that rides with it too.
Phil Raider
I'll keep it hidden for now, you just be careful of the places where the lights don't shine, Saint.
Simon Templar
Come on, Miller.
Phil Raider
I want to talk with you.
Simon Templar
Well, I'll be out in a little while, Phil. I want a drink.
Phil Raider
You've drunk enough, Canary. Come on.
Simon Templar
You'd better go, Miller. And if you can't talk your way out of it. My regards to the fishes.
Dr. Norman
And I recall it was shortly after Mr. Raider passed on his second warning. That you and I met for the first time. Professional?
Simon Templar
Yes, Doctor. The very next night.
Dr. Norman
Well, I am very surprised at you. He had warned you to stay away from dark place.
Simon Templar
Yes, Doctor, so he had. But I'm perverse by nature and I like to poke around. I was strolling around the deck with Barbara, getting moon burned. And trying desperately to get some more information.
Barbara Brooks
So wonderful having you near, Simon. I feel safe.
Simon Templar
Safe? I refuse to accept the compliment. Particularly on a moonlit night at sea.
Barbara Brooks
I'm referring to danger, Simon, not romance.
Simon Templar
They're often the very same thing. I'd like to join the team. Barbara. Why don't you confess fired in me?
Barbara Brooks
Because if I did, we'd both be dead by morning. I must go now. Good night, Simon.
Simon Templar
Good night. Don't turn around, Templer. I've got a. I know. A gun pointed at the small of my back. That's it. Now keep away from Barbara Brooks. Am I clear? Clear enough. Anything else? Yeah, just so it sinks in, Saint. Take this along to remember me by. Once again you enter the picture, Dr. Norman. You found me there, lying on the deck, basking in moonlight and blood.
Dr. Norman
Go on, Simon, tell me the rest of it.
Simon Templar
Well, after your neat job of vulcanizing me. The saving me a trip to the ship's doctor and innumerable words of explanation. I hit upon a strategy and my next visit found me calling in the lion's den. I tell you, you're being made a patsy, Raider. You're on the verge of being demoted back to second class hoodlum.
Phil Raider
I can take care of myself.
Simon Templar
I admit a minor sandbagging committed in your good name doesn't amount to much, Raider. But what if the same someone likes your name and decides to use it in other ways?
Phil Raider
What do you mean?
Simon Templar
I mean murder. You're a lead pipe cinch to pay for one of your own someday, Raider. But meanwhile, how would you feel getting hung for somebody else's shenanigans?
Phil Raider
I'd be annoyed.
Simon Templar
You sure would.
Phil Raider
Look, I'm not rigged up with no murder. St. Lil meant 50 grand to us alive. That's what we figured the Sucker was good for.
Simon Templar
It's a good enough reason for wanting Lil among the present instead of the late Raider. Tell me, what was the angle? Blackmail?
Phil Raider
Nah, nah, nothing so crude, Saint. I sponsor the party, spot them, finger.
Simon Templar
Them and oil them.
Phil Raider
And the Millers squeeze them through a deck of cards. The guy's a sucker for good looking dames and card games, that's all.
Simon Templar
That sounds very uncomplicated. Easy picking.
Phil Raider
Guy ain't had the coin long enough to be smart about it.
Simon Templar
Who's the guy?
Phil Raider
He makes water heaters.
Simon Templar
The fat man with the diamonds from Passage. Yeah, that's the sucker should have tumbled.
Phil Raider
Looks like you did. I thought you were out for a bust up. 50G is a lot of money, Saint. I figured if I could scare you'd be insurance.
Simon Templar
How about Barbara Brook?
Phil Raider
Deal me out. I'm not in on whatever the caper is.
Simon Templar
There. She saw you the day we sailed and she got scared.
Phil Raider
Maybe it's because I ain't exactly pretty. But if you really want to know something, Saint, I'll tell you. I was propositioned on a stunt against that dame a few weeks before we sailed. I turned her down. A big doe too.
Simon Templar
A murder deal?
Phil Raider
Yeah, big doe to bump her up. Not for me though. Nah, she's too prominent. Too much heat on those jobs.
Simon Templar
Who made the offer? Raider.
Phil Raider
He wasn't exactly interested in leaving his calling. Court scene. Just a John Smith as far as I'm concerned.
Simon Templar
But he had a description, didn't he? Everybody has a description.
Phil Raider
Well, sure, sure. He was a medium sized guy with the lights. Who turned them off?
Simon Templar
Get down. Raider.
Phil Raider
Raider.
Simon Templar
Raider. Are you brown?
Dr. Norman
Brown tie, blue shirt. Brown tie, blue shirt.
Simon Templar
Brown tie, blue shirt. Not a very harmonious color scheme, is it? Thank you, Raider. At least your last earthly utterance was in the direction of. Good. Thank you.
Dr. Norman
Brown tie, blue shirt. What did he mean, Simon?
Simon Templar
Well, it means that either the man for whom I search isn't a very fastidious dresser, Doctor. Or else.
Dr. Norman
Or else?
Simon Templar
Or else he's colorblind. Blue and brown just aren't worn together. Well, no, I'll take that drink now, Doctor.
Dr. Norman
Oh, and the sedative I mixed for you. Your concussion.
Simon Templar
Later, Doctor, later.
Dr. Norman
Very well. I can see that you're going to be a very difficult patient. I hope you don't mind drinking out of another medicine glass.
Simon Templar
No, right now. I prefer it.
Dr. Norman
Say when.
Simon Templar
A little more, Doctor. That's fine. Has such a beautiful color, hasn't it, doctor?
Dr. Norman
Yeah, hasn't it, sir? Aren't you going to drink It, Simon.
Simon Templar
In a moment, Doctor, when I finish my story.
Dr. Norman
Yes, of course, the story. Barbara's murder was next.
Simon Templar
Yes, Barbara was next. But immediately before our last meeting on deck in the fog, Doctor, I found out what she was afraid of.
Dr. Norman
You did? But how?
Simon Templar
It was easy. The steward had some keys, I had some money. The steward has enough now for that chicken ranch he's always dreamed of.
Dr. Norman
You broke into Ballarat Stateroom?
Simon Templar
Yes.
Dr. Norman
Well, what did you find, Simon?
Simon Templar
Lingerie, perfume, stockings. And some letters, Doctor. Peculiar letters, huh?
Dr. Norman
Fan made.
Simon Templar
Yes, yes, and all from the same fan. The fan she was once engaged to marry, Doctor. A fan who loved her very much and hated her in equal proportions. Who was so torn between love and hate he had to kill her.
Dr. Norman
Schizophrenic.
Simon Templar
You should know.
Dr. Norman
What do you mean?
Simon Templar
Well, you know the classifications. You're the doctor. Oh.
Dr. Norman
Drink your sedative, Simon.
Simon Templar
A colorblind schizophrenic. I don't believe I've ever met one before, Dr. Norman. So colorblind, he mistook the green and orange harlequin costume worn by Lil Miller for the blue and yellow one worn by Barbara.
Dr. Norman
That is very interesting, Simon.
Simon Templar
Poor Lil. If she'd come to the ball as anything but a harlequin, she'd have lived to take in $50,000.
Dr. Norman
You said it.
Simon Templar
You know, you were wrong about Lil's hair, Doctor. It wasn't red. It was brown.
Dr. Norman
You said it was red.
Simon Templar
I wanted to see if you'd agree.
Dr. Norman
Your servitude.
Simon Templar
Yes, of course. Hand it to me, would you, Doctor? There, alongside the drink. No, no. Don't try to tell them apart by their aromas, Doctor. It's obvious that they're different colors. Or can't you tell?
Dr. Norman
You find it saint. I like very much for you to.
Simon Templar
Drink it, my doctor. What a pretty purple gun you're wearing. Or is it pink?
Dr. Norman
Drink up, Templar. You hardly feel it. It's just a dash of prussic acid.
Simon Templar
Dr. Norman, when you give a sedative, you go overboard.
Dr. Norman
Drink it. Tympla.
Simon Templar
Well, you're the doctor. A Toast to you, Dr. Norman. To your green shirt, blue tie and gray handkerchief, none of which match. Here's how.
Dr. Norman
My eyes. You threw it in my eyes.
Simon Templar
It was a question of your eyes or my stomach, Doctor. My eyes. I'm blind. You'll get over it, Doctor. Which is more than can be said of me if one of those wild shots of yours should hit me. I know I shouldn't practice medicine without a licensed doctor any more than you should. But here's an additive from me to you. Pleasant nightmares, Dr. Norman.
Vincent Price
You have been listening to another adventure of the Saint. The Robin Hood of modern crime. And now, here is our star, Vincent Price.
Simon Templar
Ladies and gentlemen, In a prejudice filled America, no one would be secure in his job, his business, his church or his home. Yet racial and religious antagonisms are exploited daily by quacks and adventurers whose followers make up the irresponsible lunatic fringe of American life. Refuse to listen to or spread rumors against any race or religion. Help to stamp out prejudice in our country. Let's judge our neighbors by the character of their lives alone and not on the basis of their religion or origin. This is Vincent Price inviting you to join us again next week at the same time for another exciting adventure of the Saint. Good night.
Vincent Price
Tonight's script of the Saint was written by Michael Cramoy. Our cast included Betty Lou Gerson, Gene Bates, Frank Gerstel, Bill Conrad and Barney Phillips. The music was composed and conducted by Harry Zimmerman. The Saint, based on characters created by Leslie Charteris, is a James L. Safier production and is directed by Thomas A. McEvitty. Vincent Price is soon to be seen in Harry M. Popkins production of Champagne for Caesar, co starring Ronald Coleman. All you Saint fans will be glad to know that the Saint comic books are on sale at all newsstands. Your announcer, Merrill Ross. This is the Mutual Broadcasting System.
Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio - "The Saint - 49-09-18 - The Color-Blind Killer"
Introduction
Harold's Old Time Radio presents an enthralling episode of The Saint, titled "The Color-Blind Killer." This episode, released on January 8, 2025, features the legendary Vincent Price portraying Simon Templar, the Robin Hood of modern crime. Set against the backdrop of a foggy ship voyage, the story weaves mystery, suspense, and psychological intrigue, capturing the essence of radio's Golden Age.
Plot Overview
The episode opens on a fog-enshrouded deck where Simon Templar, portrayed by Vincent Price, engages in a tense conversation with Barbara Brooks, a retiring actress hinting at underlying fears (02:00). Their interaction is abruptly interrupted by the mysterious disappearance of Barbara, leading to panic and suspicion.
Simon Templar, determined to uncover the truth behind Barbara's supposed accident, skeptically questions Dr. Norman, the ship's psychiatrist (03:06). Their dialogue reveals hidden connections and past encounters, hinting at deeper motives and secrets on board.
As Simon delves deeper, he encounters Phil Raider, a notorious figure whose ominous presence suggests involvement in Barbara's disappearance (07:38). The cat-and-mouse game intensifies as Simon confronts Raider, uncovering a web of deception and betrayal.
The climax unfolds with Simon piecing together the puzzle, revealing that Barbara's fall was no accident but a meticulously planned murder orchestrated by a colorblind schizophrenic killer who mistook her for another woman at a costume ball (19:39). The episode concludes with a dramatic confrontation between Simon and Dr. Norman, culminating in a clever twist that leaves listeners yearning for the next adventure.
Character Analysis
Simon Templar (Vincent Price)
Simon is portrayed as a sharp, intuitive protagonist with a knack for uncovering hidden truths. His interactions exude confidence and wit, evident when he remarks, "I have a peculiar talent for finding things out for myself" (05:05). His relentless pursuit of justice drives the narrative forward.
Barbara Brooks
Barbara is a retiring actress harboring secrets. Her cryptic statements and sudden disappearance set off the chain of events. Her fear and reluctance to divulge information add layers of mystery to her character.
Dr. Norman
The ship's psychiatrist, Dr. Norman, presents a complex character. Initially appearing concerned, he later reveals ulterior motives, culminating in a betrayal that shocks both Simon and the audience. His dual role adds psychological depth to the story.
Phil Raider
Phil Raider epitomizes the antagonist with his menacing demeanor and ambiguous motives. His confrontations with Simon are charged with tension, hinting at a deeper connection to the unfolding mystery.
Key Scenes and Notable Quotes
Initial Encounter on Deck (01:18 - 02:44)
The scene sets the stage for the impending conflict, introducing Barbara's reluctant demeanor and Simon's inquisitive nature.
Revelation of Barbara's Death (04:00 - 05:13)
This pivotal moment shifts the narrative from a simple disappearance to a suspected murder, heightening the suspense.
Confrontation with Phil Raider (07:38 - 08:31)
The tense exchange between Simon and Raider underscores the antagonist's evasiveness and the growing threat.
Psychiatric Manipulation (12:02 - 21:39)
Dr. Norman's deceit is unveiled as he attempts to incapacitate Simon, revealing his true intentions.
Final Revelation and Twist (19:30 - 21:39)
Simon deciphers the mystery, exposing the killer's identity and the underlying psychological manipulation orchestrated by Dr. Norman.
Themes and Insights
Psychological Manipulation: The episode delves into the complexities of the human psyche, showcasing how appearances can be deceiving. Dr. Norman's betrayal exemplifies the thin line between trust and deception.
Perception vs. Reality: The concept of colorblindness serves as a metaphor for misunderstandings and hidden truths. The killer's inability to distinguish colors symbolizes the blurred lines between truth and falsehood.
Justice and Vigilantism: Simon Templar embodies the vigilante spirit, taking justice into his own hands. His relentless pursuit underscores the theme of righteousness prevailing over corruption.
Fear and Vulnerability: Barbara's fear and eventual downfall highlight human vulnerability, emphasizing the importance of uncovering hidden fears to prevent tragedy.
Conclusion
"The Color-Blind Killer" stands out as a masterfully crafted episode of The Saint, blending suspense, psychological intrigue, and dynamic character interactions. Vincent Price's portrayal of Simon Templar adds a layer of sophistication, while the intricate plot keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. Through its exploration of perception, manipulation, and justice, the episode offers timeless insights into human nature and morality. Fans of classic radio dramas will find this episode both nostalgic and captivating, eagerly anticipating the next adventure of the Robin Hood of modern crime.
Notable Production Details
Closing Remarks
The episode concludes with a public service announcement against prejudice, delivered compellingly by Vincent Price, reinforcing the show's commitment to addressing societal issues alongside thrilling storytelling. The seamless blend of entertainment and moral messaging underscores The Saint's enduring legacy in radio history.
References