The Relic Radio Show: "Rocky Fortune and Box 13"
Released on March 25, 2025, "Rocky Fortune and Box 13" is a captivating episode of The Relic Radio Show, expertly unearthing the suspenseful narratives of old-time radio adventures. This episode, featuring the star power of Frank Sinatra as Rocky Fortune and Alan Ladd as Dan Holiday, weaves a tale of deception, mystery, and redemption set against the backdrop of a gritty urban landscape.
Introduction
"The Relic Radio Show" specializes in bringing to life the golden age of radio entertainment, offering listeners immersive experiences across genres like horror, science fiction, comedy, and adventure. In the episode "Rocky Fortune and Box 13," listeners are introduced to Rocky Fortune, a charming yet perpetually unemployed gentleman whose latest job delivery plunges him into a web of intrigue and danger.
Main Characters
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Rocky Fortune (Frank Sinatra): The protagonist, a resourceful and witty messenger with a knack for finding himself in precarious situations.
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Laura Chandler (Marion Richmond): Rocky's enigmatic client, a high-class fashion designer with hidden motives.
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Sam Socrates (Ted Von Eltz): A philosophical pickpocket and old acquaintance of Rocky, who plays a crucial role in unraveling the mystery.
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Eve Hobson (Georgia Ellis): Laura Chandler's devoted secretary, involved deeply in the conspiracy.
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Sergeant Hamilton J. Finger (Justine Parley Bear): A determined homicide officer intent on solving the case.
Plot Overview
The episode begins with Rocky Fortune securing a lucrative job offering him $100 per hour to deliver a mysterious package for Laura Chandler. Despite initial skepticism, Rocky accepts the job, only to discover that the delivery is anything but straightforward.
[02:03] Laura Chandler: "I handle all of Ms. Chandler's affairs and we don't want a messenger."
From the onset, Rocky senses something amiss. His delivery leads him to 14 Barbary Street, a notorious neighborhood, where he encounters Laura’s neighbor, an old blind lady named Eve. The encounter quickly turns hostile when Rocky is ambushed and becomes entangled in a staged robbery meant to frame him for a murder.
As Rocky navigates the perplexing situation, he reconnects with Sam Socrates, who provides crucial insights into the deception surrounding Laura Chandler. Together, they begin to uncover the layers of deceit, revealing that Laura had orchestrated the entire scenario to manipulate and incriminate Rocky.
[11:02] Rocky Fortune: "You recognize this picture in the paper?"
The plot thickens as Laura attempts to deflect suspicion and maintain control over the narrative, leading to a tense confrontation where the truth begins to surface. Rocky's determination and resourcefulness, combined with Sam's street-smart wisdom, drive the investigation forward, exposing Laura's intentions and the real motives behind the packages.
Key Moments and Discussions
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The Mysterious Package Delivery
Rocky’s acceptance of the job sets the stage for the unfolding mystery. His interaction with Laura displays her composed yet evasive nature, hinting at deeper secrets.[02:10] Laura Chandler: "This doesn't sound like fashion proofs."
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The Staged Ambush
Rocky is unexpectedly assaulted, leading to a misleading trail that suggests his involvement in a criminal act. This pivotal moment shifts the narrative from a simple delivery to a complex investigation.[09:09] Laura Chandler: "Keep your trap shut. The stuff here."
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Revelation with Sam Socrates
Rocky’s reunion with Sam Socrates brings fresh perspectives and critical analysis, helping them piece together the true sequence of events.[10:15] Frank Sinatra: "Rocky, my old companion from Gramercy Park."
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The Confrontation and Accusations
The tension peaks when Laura confronts Rocky, leading to explosive revelations about the true nature of the packages and the intended framing.[16:09] Laura Chandler: "I see you opened my package."
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Unveiling the Imposter Plot
Rocky deduces that Laura orchestrated a fake murder to manipulate circumstances to her advantage, revealing her as the antagonist.[22:44] Rocky Fortune: "Eve Hobson."
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Climactic Showdown
The culmination of the episode sees Rocky and Sam confronting Laura and her accomplices, leading to arrests and the restoration of justice.[50:18] Sam Socrates: "And they got some kind of a test to prove if a party fired a gun."
Notable Quotes
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Rocky Fortune on His Job Troubles:
[01:30] "When it comes to losing jobs, I got about the best batting average in town." -
Laura Chandler on the Delivery:
[04:12] "Here's the package." -
Sam Socrates on the Situation:
[10:15] "Rocky, my old companion from Gramercy Park." -
Rocky’s Realization of the Conspiracy:
[22:44] "Eve Hobson." -
Final Confrontation:
[50:00] "You better take him inside. Oh, back off."
Conclusion
"Rocky Fortune and Box 13" masterfully blends suspense, humor, and classic radio drama elements to deliver an enthralling story. Rocky's journey from a simple messenger to a detective unraveling a complex conspiracy showcases his resilience and ingenuity. The episode not only entertains but also pays homage to the rich tradition of old-time radio storytelling, complete with memorable characters and a tightly woven plot.
As the episode concludes, listeners are left anticipating the next installment, eager to follow Rocky Fortune’s further adventures and the enduring allure of "Box 13." This episode stands as a testament to The Relic Radio Show's commitment to reviving and preserving the golden age of radio entertainment.
Notable Cast and Crew:
- Stars: Frank Sinatra (Rocky Fortune), Alan Ladd (Dan Holiday)
- Supporting Cast: Marion Richmond, Georgia Ellis, Justine Parley Bear, Ted Von Eltz
- Scriptwriters: George Leppert and Andrew C. Love
- Director: Eddie King
- Music: Composed and conducted by Rudy Schrager
- Production Supervision: Vern Carstenson
- Production Company: Mayfair Production from Hollywood Watch for Paramount Pictures
Tune in next week for another riveting episode as Rocky Fortune navigates through new challenges and mysterious escapades, continuing his legacy as an old-time radio hero.