Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – The Weird Circle (06) 1943 A Terribly Strange Bed

Introduction

Harold's Old Time Radio transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio with its immersive storytelling and classic radio drama elements. In the episode titled "The Weird Circle (06) 1943 A Terribly Strange Bed," listeners are plunged into a suspenseful murder mystery set against the backdrop of 1940s Paris. This episode masterfully blends intrigue, character development, and atmospheric tension, capturing the essence of pre-television family radio entertainment.

Characters

• Jack Westcott: An American author researching historic murder cases.
• Burke Manning: Jack's friend, a dedicated and intuitive detective.
• Inspector Duval: Head of the Paris police force, involved in the investigation.
• Fat Man (Monte Lariard): A sinister figure connected to a series of mysterious murders.
• Cecilia: A charming woman working at the tavern, entangled in the unfolding mystery.

Plot Summary

Setting the Scene (00:06 - 01:28)

The episode opens with a haunting narrative introduction, setting the tone for the eerie events to unfold:

"Phantoms of a world gone by Speak again. The immortal tale A Terribly Strange Bed." [00:06]

We meet Jack Westcott, an American author engrossed in writing a manuscript on historic murder cases. His friend, Burke Manning, accompanies him to Paris for research.

Discovery of the Corpse (01:28 - 04:20)

While walking along the Seine River, Jack and Burke encounter Inspector Duval and a disturbing scene:

"A corpse, Monsieur Westcott. A corpse that's been squashed thin as a piece of paper." [02:31]

The grotesque appearance of the mutilated body raises immediate concerns. The Inspector reveals an alarming trend of similar murders, hinting at a serial killer's modus operandi.

Introduction of the Fat Man (04:20 - 07:00)

The sinister Fat Man emerges as a key suspect:

"Why do I enjoy seeing a mutilated body dragged out of the river?" [15:46]

His philosophical yet terrifying explanation of finding beauty in death deepens the mystery and raises the stakes for Jack and Burke.

The Tavern Encounter (07:00 - 14:56)

Determined to uncover the truth, Burke insists on following the Fat Man to a local gambling house, La Belle Tavern, despite Jack's reservations:

"I want to break the bank." [11:09]

Inside, the tension escalates as Burke becomes entangled in the tavern's dealings, and the Fat Man's influence becomes more palpable. The atmosphere is thick with suspense as the radio drama builds towards the climax.

Climactic Confrontation (14:56 - 24:05)

Burke experiences a harrowing ordeal when he finds himself trapped in a bizarre and threatening bed contraption orchestrated by the Fat Man:

"The canopy is being lowered on me. That's what it is, the canopy. It can't move." [22:14]

The struggle intensifies with dramatic dialogue:

"If the bed didn't work the first time, I've ways and means of making it work the second." [23:34]

Jack and Inspector Duval race against time to rescue Burke, culminating in a suspense-filled rescue that leaves the characters shaken but victorious.

Resolution and Aftermath (24:05 - 25:22)

In the aftermath, the characters reflect on the night's events. Inspector Duval hints at ongoing dangers, and Cecilia's fate remains uncertain:

"They might not harm at all. But just in case, I thought it might be a wise idea for you to go down there." [18:56]

Jack and Burke narrowly escape the perilous situation, but the lingering threat of the Fat Man suggests that the mystery is far from over.

Notable Quotes

Throughout the episode, poignant and chilling quotes enhance the narrative's depth:

• Narrator:

  "Stories Strange and weird. Bell keeper, hold the bell so all may know we are gathered again in the weird circle." [00:06]

• Jack Westcott:

  "I've got to finish that manuscript tonight." [05:02]

• Fat Man:

  "There's beauty in death." [15:56]

• Burke Manning:

  "I want to satisfy a hunch." [04:20]

• Inspector Duval:

  "A desperate man finds desperate ways to raise money." [06:07]

• Cecilia:

  "Am I? Why?" [07:36]

These quotes not only advance the plot but also provide insights into the characters' motivations and the story's underlying themes.

Conclusion

A Terribly Strange Bed is a quintessential episode that encapsulates the allure of old-time radio dramas. Through compelling storytelling, rich character interactions, and masterful use of sound, Harold's Old Time Radio delivers a captivating experience. Listeners are left on the edge of their seats, eagerly anticipating the next installment in The Weird Circle series. This episode stands as a testament to the enduring charm and suspense of classic radio mysteries, making it a must-listen for enthusiasts of the genre.