The Sign of Satan

"The Sign of Satan" is a most atypical episode of "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" as it has to do with the occult and supernatural. It's also unusual because it's the first episode of any of Hitchcock's shows that featured British actor Christopher Lee. As for the story, it's by Robert Bloch who wrote quite a few episodes as well as "Psycho".

When the story begins, some Hollywood folks are watching a film made in Vienna and it's of a Satanic mass and starring Karl Jorla (Lee). The problem is that they think it's from a movie but it's actually from a Satanic ceremony. And, they insist that Jorla is a great actor...but he ain't acting in the film! What's next? See the episode and find out for yourself.

This is a good but not great episode of the series...worth seeing but also not quite as weird and exciting as you might expect considering it's Lee and Bloch.

IMDB will BAN you for giving a spoiler without warning and yet they put up the entire surprise ending to this in their story synopses. How stupid is that! I was going to watch it but THEY ruined it for me

This episode from "The Alfred Hitchcock Hour" called "The Sign of Satan" is one that was memorable and had it's suspense and the drama and scary feel worked for it's day and time. Starring legendary horror actor Christopher Lee as Karl Jorla as an actor who wants to live a normal life and be a big star. Well things really change and follow him so to speak as after he observed and partook in a black mass ritual it's like he can't escape the bad stuff. After going to Hollywood an actress and some studio people want him for their next horror film, yet Karl wants no part because it involves Satan himself. So the episode twist with some drama and suspense only to end with some fear and fright as most episodes of the Alfred hour did the same. Overall pretty good memorable episode that had an interesting and scary story and it was moved along well by horror suspense acting legend Christopher Lee.

I never realized Christopher Lee was ever young. Of course, playing the Frankenstein monster for Hammer had him covered in hideous makeup. Here he has been involved in Satan worship in his home country, and is now enticed to come to Hollywood studio in what he thinks is a bit part. He is to be the star and knows that if anyone knows he is there his life will be in danger. I have to admit, I am a great C. L. fan, but this hour never got moving. There is a lack of clarity in the plot when it comes to the threat on the guy's life. Once again, there are the stereotypical movie types who talk in a different language.

It was only a matter of time Hitch would arrange for another fellow British actor to appear on his show, namely Christopher Lee. He was absolutely perfect for this story, let alone for the entire series.

The episode is based on a short story by horror master Robert Bloch (without too much surprise), re-written for tv by Barre Lyndon, famous for THE WAR OF THE WORLDS. What a combination of writing talent, again thanks to Hitch.

Interestingly, Lee plays the next best thing to Count Dracula, a mysterious gentleman linked to a group of Satan worshipers. The catch is one of their ceremonies is filmed, miraculously getting into the hands of some Hollywood producers? They are impressed, of course believing it's all fiction --insisting "actor" Karl Jorla (Lee) star in their next horror film. Amazing and frightening stuff. Jorla agrees, however there are conditions that must be upheld, keeping in mind his life hangs in the balance. Complications Hitch would surely endorse.

Beautiful Gia Scala, also born in England, plays Kitty, and in an excellent role opposite Lee. This was their only appearance on the show. Gilbert Green (DEATH VALLEY DAYS, THE VIRGINIAN), plays Max and in a bit of tv history, Byron Keith plays the police captain, known for a similar role on 77 SUNSET STRIP. Obviously an inside joke for all us fans.

Best viewed late night, and what a treat, skillfully directed by Robert Douglas. You know it's going to be atmospheric.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 27 remastered for tv. Both seasons one and two, according to Amazon, were produced in Europe and may not play on American made dvd players. Always check with the seller. Thanks much to METV for running this campy, if not mini cult thriller.