Episode Summary: Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio) – Episode 401: Donald Crisp

Podcast Information:

• Title: Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio)
• Host/Author: Mean Streets Podcasts
• Description: Presenting the biggest legends of Hollywood starring in "Suspense," radio's outstanding theater of thrills! Each week, we'll hear two chillers from this old time radio classic featuring one of the all-time great stars of stage and screen.
• Episode: 401 - Donald Crisp
• Release Date: January 16, 2025

Introduction

In Episode 401 of Stars on Suspense, hosted by Mean Streets Podcasts, listeners are treated to two gripping stories starring the illustrious English actor Donald Crisp. Renowned for his versatility and Oscar-winning performance in John Ford's How Green Was My Valley, Crisp brings his seasoned talent to life in classic suspenseful tales from old-time radio. This episode features two of his performances: "Banquo's Chair" and "Case History of Edgar Lowndes," followed by a radio adaptation of How Green Was My Valley.

1. Banquo's Chair

[00:09 - 00:30] Introduction by Narrator

The episode opens with a classic Suspense introduction, setting the tone for mystery and intrigue. Donald Crisp is introduced as Sir William Brent, accompanied by actor John Loder as Arthur Grange.

Plot Summary

Banquo's Chair revolves around Sir William Brent, a formidable Scotland Yard inspector known for his cold intelligence and unyielding pursuit of criminals. The story unfolds as Sir William invites his old friend, Arthur Grange, and mystery writer Roberta Stone to a dinner party at the ominous Turret House in Sydenham. The evening is meticulously planned by Sir William to trap John Bedford, the nephew accused of murdering his aunt, Ms. Ferguson.

Sir William's strategy involves creating an atmosphere of fear and confusion by introducing a supernatural element—a ghostly figure resembling the murdered Ms. Ferguson. Bedford, already under suspicion, becomes increasingly agitated as he interacts with the apparition, ultimately revealing his guilt and leading to his arrest. The climax culminates with a shocking twist involving the appearance of May Wakefield, an actress who mimics the ghost, sealing Bedford's fate.

Notable Quotes

• Narrator (00:50):

  "Sir William was the scourge of criminals. Coldly unemotional, utterly without fear or passion."

• Arthur Grange (15:30):

  "Miss Stone, this house is certainly a proper background for anything unpleasant."

• Sir William Brent (38:45):

  "If at first you don't succeed, you know."

• John Bedford (55:20):

  "I'll murder you again. I'll murder you again."

• Sir William Brent (59:50):

  "What's wrong? If it wasn't May Wakefield, then who was that figure here tonight?"

Key Themes and Insights

• Psychological Manipulation: Sir William's intricate planning showcases his ability to manipulate environments and emotions to elicit confessions.

• Supernatural Elements vs. Rational Investigation: The introduction of a ghostly figure blurs the lines between rational detective work and supernatural occurrence, heightening suspense.

• Justice and Morality: The story delves into the ethics of trapping a suspect through psychological tactics, questioning the fine line between justice and manipulation.

2. Case History of Edgar Lowndes

[30:00 - 60:00] Introduction by Narrator

Donald Crisp returns to portray Dr. Aronson, a psychiatrist, alongside Thomas Mitchell as Edgar Lowndes, a troubled railroad tycoon grappling with mysterious headaches and nightmares. This narrative is a deeper psychological thriller exploring the subconscious motives behind seemingly inexplicable crimes.

Plot Summary

Case History of Edgar Lowndes follows Edgar Lowndes, a wealthy railroad magnate suffering from severe headaches and nightmares following the death of his wife. Seeking help, Lowndes consults Dr. Aronson, who begins uncovering buried memories and unconscious impulses that suggest Lowndes may have committed murder without conscious awareness.

As the sessions progress, Dr. Aronson discovers Lowndes's traumatic childhood, marked by a domineering father and the tragic death of a family member. These revelations point toward Lowndes's deep-seated guilt and repressed violent tendencies. The suspense intensifies as it's revealed that Lowndes may be an unwitting serial killer, haunted by past traumas that manifest in his present life.

The climax erupts when Lowndes attempts to kill Dr. Aronson, driven by his internal demons. However, intervention by Miss Finchley, who manipulates the recording equipment, captures Lowndes's confession, ensuring his arrest. The story culminates with Lowndes's final demise as he succumbs to his own haunted psyche.

Notable Quotes

• Edgar Lowndes (1:15:45):

  "I used to dread those trips into town with him."

• Dr. Aronson (1:35:10):

  "The patient's unconscious impulses have been brought to the surface without being rationalized."

• Edgar Lowndes (1:50:30):

  "You’re still out to get me."

• Miss Finchley (1:55:55):

  "We've got all the evidence we need now to put Mr. Lowndes where he can't do any more harm."

Key Themes and Insights

• The Unconscious Mind: The narrative delves into how suppressed memories and unresolved trauma can influence present behavior, highlighting the complexities of the human psyche.

• Guilt and Redemption: Lowndes's journey is one of grappling with guilt, seeking redemption, and ultimately being consumed by his inner turmoil.

• Ethics in Psychiatry: The story raises questions about the responsibilities of mental health professionals in uncovering painful truths and the fine line between helping and harming.

3. How Green Was My Valley

[60:00 - End] Introduction by Narrator

Following the suspenseful tales, the episode transitions to a radio adaptation of How Green Was My Valley, starring Donald Crisp among an ensemble cast. This adaptation brings to life the poignant story of a man's childhood in Wales, reflecting on family, hardship, and the passage of time.

Plot Summary

In this adaptation of How Green Was My Valley, the story centers around Willem Morgan and his family in a Welsh valley. The narrative explores the struggles of coal mining life, familial bonds, and the impact of industrialization on their idyllic surroundings. As tensions rise due to wage cuts and strikes, familial relationships strain under economic pressures and personal conflicts.

The story intricately weaves themes of loss, resilience, and the longing for simpler times. The tragic demise of Willem and the enduring spirit of his family underscore the enduring human capacity to persevere amidst adversity.

Notable Quotes

• Willem Morgan (2:05:30):

  "Everything I ever learned as a small boy came from my father."

• Anne Harrod (2:30:15):

  "With faith, you will walk, no matter what all the doctors say."

• Mrs. Morgan (2:45:50):

  "Or the first duty of those new legs shall be to carry you to chapel next Sunday to give thanks for them."

Key Themes and Insights

• Generational Conflict: The story highlights the tensions between generations, particularly how economic hardships can strain familial relationships.

• Impact of Industrialization: The decline of the coal mine symbolizes the erosion of community and traditional ways of life, reflecting broader societal changes.

• Faith and Hope: Characters rely on faith and hope to navigate their struggles, emphasizing the human spirit's resilience.

Conclusion

Episode 401 of Stars on Suspense masterfully showcases Donald Crisp's versatility as an actor, seamlessly transitioning between intense psychological thrillers and heartfelt dramatic narratives. Through "Banquo's Chair" and "Case History of Edgar Lowndes," listeners are immersed in tales of mystery, moral ambiguity, and the complexity of the human mind. The adaptation of How Green Was My Valley further enriches the episode, offering a reflective counterpoint to the suspenseful stories. This episode is a testament to the enduring appeal of old-time radio and Crisp's remarkable legacy in bringing these stories to life.

Notable Production Credits:

• Producer: William Smith Spear
• Director: Ted Bliss
• Music Composer: Lucian Marowick
• Author Collaborations: Sigmund Miller, Lud Gluskin

Quotes with Timestamps: Each notable quote is attributed to the respective speaker with its corresponding timestamp, providing listeners with reference points throughout the episode.

For those who missed this episode, be sure to tune in to future installments of Stars on Suspense to experience more legendary performances from Hollywood's finest.