November 15, 2024: My Top 10 Favorite Episodes of The Twilight Zone!

This was tough.  After much consideration, I came up with a short list of 13, then spent a couple of hours agonizing over the order… 10) Living DollLike most of the episodes on this list, this one really delivers on its deliciously diabolical premise.  The possessed doll story against which all possessed doll stories are measured. 9) The DummyIn keeping with the creepy doll theme, this one is memorable for its truly haunting final twist – the reveal that the ventriloquist and his dummy have traded places. 8) Time Enough at LastSpeaking of memorable endings, it’s very hard to top this one that proves tragic, heartbreaking and kinda funny at the same time. 7) Eye of the BeholderThis one left such a powerful impression on young me that it absolutely deserves a stop on this list. 6) The Hitch-HikerThis was one of those rare episodes that was “new” to me (as I’d either missed seeing it back in the day or totally forgotten it) and I absolutely loved it. Shades of Carnival of Souls, one of my favorite classic horror films. 5) A Stop at WilloughbyOh, boy.  This one stands out for me for its unexpected gut punch of an ending.  You think it’s headed the way of Walking Distance and then – wham! 4) An Occurrence at Owl Creek BridgeOkay, one could argue not technically a Twilight Zone episode, but it was part of the show’s original broadcast so I’m putting it here.  Beautifully shot and delivers one hell of a shock ending. 3) Nightmare at 20,000 FeetUnlike most of the other episodes on this list, there is no dark ending or final twist, just a wonderfully uhinged performance by William Shatner. [image error] 2) Will the Real Martian Please Stand Up?Another one I didn’t recall seeing first go-round, it succeeded in accomplishing something shows I watch rarely do.  It surprised me. 1) To Serve ManScience fiction?  Check!  Memorably hilarious scenes?  Check.  Horrific twist ending?  Check!***Honorable Mentions: Miniature, Five Characters in Search of an Exit, Death ShipSo, what were YOUR Top 10 Twilight Zone episodes?And, before you get too comfortable, head over here and cast your vote for our next classic rewatch.  It’s The Outer Limits vs Alfred Hitchcock Presents vs Night Gallery vs Batman!

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