As soon as I hear his voice saying, “Submitted for your approval,” I think, “You have it.” Best writer in American history. Massively, criminally underrated. Taken too soon 👍
When I was 12 and 13 and my father was stationed in Japan {1961-1962) my friends and I took turns retelling Twilight Zone episodes during our lunch hours at school. Points accrued for remembering the smaller detail. Anytime is good for the Twilight Zone.
It’s amazing how much of the original series still holds up perfectly to this day, like the ideas they came up with for that show are still relevant as ever, the writing was so perfect
Successful series ran five years and then quit. The contracts were five years. The shows that didn't degrade mostly struck the sets after the first contract was up. Notice how un-funny Andy Griffith was in it's post fifth season. TZ did the five years and then he moved on to Hollywood. That was less than fully successful (Apes) so he came back to TV
🔵What a great series! I think I was 10yrs old when I saw my first TZ episode. I was hooked after watching just one show. I still watch it even though now I know the scripts so well, I can speak the dialog with the actors.😄😁 Walking Distance, A World Of His Own, Burning Sun, Queen Of The Nile, so many great episodes. I wish there were more.
One reoccurring theme I noticed in the Twilight Zone was an adult man who was under excessive stress, and constantly trying to escape to some other place, usually an ideal fantasy world. This describes at least 5 different episodes in the original series.
...the Music alone was enough to make me scared as a kid...lol...personal favorite: Burgess Meredith ~ breaking his glasses, on the steps of the library - when he finally had 'all the time in the world' to read. thank you jordan peele for keeping the suit. it works. and well done.
Three of the first season's episodes (and the title music for that year) had music by Bernard Herrmann. This was at the same time he scored the Hitchcock films VERTIGO, NORTH BY NORTHWEST and PSYCHO.
The first episode was pretty good, just have to give it time. Nothing was ever thought to be amazing when it first came out. Trash movies from decades ago are awesome today.
@ Four packs a day, is what they said, that's incredible. But I guess back then you didn't have to go out for smoke breaks, you just lit up wherever. At least Walt Disney made it to 65, though.
I just started watching the original series of The Twilight Zone and I’m amazed how well done it’s done. I love it and now I’m watching 2-3 episodes every weekend
Rod Serling loved upstate New York and would incorporate it from time to time in his Twilight Zone episodes. One example was the episode that took place in a bus station ("Mirror Image": Season 1, Episode 21). When a bus is announced, the names of the towns were all from upstate NY (although somewhat randomly chosen as there was no logical bus route that would have included that particular set of towns). My understanding is that Serling's love for where he grew up extended to giving back to his community as well as training the next generation of people in his craft. My brother was a broadcasting major at one of the NY state colleges near Rochester. One of the most treasured moments in my brother's college experience was when Serling spoke to one of his classes for the entire lecture period. But he went beyond the minimum required. For any of the students who had a free period after that class was over, they retreated to the student union and Serling continued to talk with them and answer their questions. As I recall, he stayed for another hour or two. Another way that Serling used to identify with upstate NY was the name of his production company: Cayuga Productions. Cayuga Lake is one of the Finger Lakes (he lived near the lake on and off during much of his adult life) and I connect with it because I went to college "far above Cayuga's waters" at Cornell. Sadly I didn't find a way to avail myself of the opportunity to possibly meet Serling while I was at Cornell from 1970-74. Serling was teaching across town at Ithaca College throughout that time until he died in 1975.
Imagine if you will a world where Rod Serling had lived another 30-40 years and what he could have contributed to the arts and philosophies. Thank you Mr. Serling. RIP.
Perhaps that is why we still are fascinated with and discuss Rod and the show. A brief brilliant comet to observe and wonder with...and to bid adieu. Do do de do...😁
I was 7 when the first episode of The Twilight Zone aired on TV, and since we lived near Binghamton, where everyone knew who Rod Serling was because of articles in the local paper, it made it extra special. We got three channels on the TV in 1959, and there had been nothing like Twilight Zone, ever. My whole family, all the neighbors, and everyone we knew was crazy about it. We looked forward to the first episode for weeks, and no one was disappointed. I felt like I was born in nowhere, and then Twilight Zone made our area both everywhere and the center of the universe. The episodes were so imaginative, meaningful, thought-provoking, and varied. Some of them were spellbinding. We talked excitedly about every episode after it aired, in our home, in school, and at work. Most TV at the time was a "vast wasteland," but Twilight Zone was the opposite. It was about aliens, the threat of atomic warfare, other worlds, human nature, our deepest fears and desires. Suddenly the Binghamton area was more than just IBM, the local college, Link [trainer] Corporation and EJ shoe factory. Rod got arrested once, only yards from our house, speeding down Route 17 to his cottage on Cayuga Lake. Even that was exciting. Later, after Rod's death, I ran into a childhood friend of his. They grew up together, played as kids, and were in school together. His father ran a "we buy junk and sell antiques" store, where Rod and he liked hanging out. He told me they used to save the ends of bread wrappers to see B movies at the local theater, for free. A friend of mine worked with a woman who dated Rod once in high school. She remembered that he was short and hairy, and kind of intense. While watching TZ episodes on the internet, I still find many of them remarkably good, and they bring back a lot of memories, and many elements of them I remember just from seeing them the first time. But it was really different watching them for the first time back when I was young. They were so special.
@@dennisthehirev580 That's so cool. When I was growing up we'd take day trips to the Finger Lakes area, including hiking in Taughannock Falls State Park or Watkins Glen, and the minute we descended into Ithaca, it was like we entered the Shangri-La of Upstate New York. It was where I would have liked to have grown up, had I been given a choice. After I grew up and lived in Europe and South America though, I learned I wanted sunny and mountains. Even after Rod made it in Hollywood, I think he gravitated toward the family cottage on Cayuga Lake to escape the superficiality of Hollywood, and it was also a place where he probably liked to write.
It's 1962, I'm 8 yrs old and vacationing with family in a rented cottage on Cayuga Lake in Upstate NY. After dark my big brother John led me to another cottage where there were several people sitting around a campfire. I sat near the campfire with the others. With his face lit by the flames, a cigarette in his hand and in a very familiar voice, was Mr. Rod Serling himself telling a story. I sat mezmorized and in awe. My fondest memory. Thanks for the memories Mr. Serling.
Many of the themes of "Death" in Serling's writing came from the brutality he experienced from WW2... He won a purple heart.. He was a real good guy... Thank you for your work. Taken from us far too early.
Serling always had a fascination about "going home." His show brings "me" home - to childhood, to my hometown, and to the 1950s (all in black & white). He's always been a hero of mine. An incredible writer. I just watched "Seven Days in May" (again) with Lancaster, Douglass, March, and Ava Gardner. People don't know that he wrote the screenplay for that film. I'd also recommend the movie "Patterns" (1956) which was highly acclaimed and won him a writer's award.
Serling did have a deep longing or nostalgia about the past, didn't he? Or certainly about his past. Growing up in Binghamton was a wonderous time for Serling. He was loved and got to experience the type of childhood we should want for every individual on this planet. To love and be loved. If only that would be true for everyone.
I used to watch it as a child, now almost 60 yrs old every day I am truly living in the twilight zone. Lies being sold as truth every day, very bizarre. I miss just watching it on tv🙂
Winds of March Journey/Perry tribute band I’d get the Blu-Ray set, it has way more extras than the DVD set and the HD detail work in 1080 is just beautiful.
I'm from Binghamton. Met Rod Serling several times when he came here to speak to our public speaking class. Helen Foley our teacher was Rod's teacher so he came once a year to speak. VERY cool guy. I have the box set of ALL original Twlight Zone episodes. Watch it often. He has DEFINATELY stood the test of time.
The reason I bought a VCR back in the 70's was to tape the Twilight Zone. Loved the show back as a kid in the early 60's and beyond. Rod Serling is a personal hero. Just a few minutes ago I realized in was October 2, 2019. Fifty years since the Twilight Zone debut.
" Walking Distance " as well as " The Hunt " & " The Passerby " ..so touching ! ..I am almost 56 and LOVE this DVD set, I have them all..Thank you Rod !
I agreed, but when I found out Jordan Peele was executive producer/narrator I thought this had the best chance possible to be just as good as the original. Just watched "The Comedian" It wasn't too bad.
Even Rod Serling's daughter is happy to have Jordan Peele working on this, I'm glad it finally got a good reboot it was much needed, don't know why people are hating on it so much. There are only 2 episodes out right now anyways, even the original Twilight Zone wasn't a hit at first, Rod says it himself in this video. I am liking it so far and idc what the critics are saying Jordan is doing a great job, don't knock it till you watch it.
After 57 years, Serling's death, 3 remakes & a theatrical movie, the ORIGINAL is still the BEST. This will always be a classic that never dies & still be relevant at whatever time. Thank you, Mr. Serling. "You are about to enter another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, the Twilight Zone!"
This show was never forgotten: SYFY network runs Thanksgiving and New Year's marathons annually, and on late night blocks. Don't need Jordan Peele to remind me of its greatness (maybe just the kids who think history started in 2010).
Its HBO style content with cursing and such. Not Network CBS' style. Also paid subscription is the future model and they are trying to draw people to their new platform as the old network model hemorrhages money. If you like the content CBS produces and want more in the future, it's probably a good idea to in invest in them.
I’m 15 years old and I always watched the original with my Grandma, dad, brother and mom!! It’s a beautiful show in my opinion. Maybe because I enjoy writing it’s a very well done show. It’s amazing.
@@rocknroller77 What about: "This Property is Condemned" "Three Days of the Condor", "Barefoot in the Park", I can go on and on, he's one of my old time favorites.
I know that episode. I don't recall his name, but he was essentially "death," coming to take the old lady out of this life. I think part of the deal is: when you're old enough, death _does_ start to look good.
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josephgaviota - "Nothing in the Dark" aired January 5, 1962.
The one show that I watch now that gives me the same kind of creepiness as the old "Twilight Zone" is "Black Mirror." Mind you this show is taken in the present and future, but boy does it make you think.
Al Simmons (shrug) I’ve never liked firesticks, they have the ethereal quality of a match for me, Plus I love quite a few of the extras ranging from commentary tracks such as commentary tracks by Neil Gaiman, Bill Mumy and others to music only tracks and the original commercials to Rod’s multi interviews on his legacy among others.
I love TZ today, tomorrow, and as long as I live. It has always been a show that makes you think. Thank you Mr Sterling. Thank you Mr. Peele for keeping the journey alive today! I'll be checking out the new TZ.
@Bret H - I am sure that "The Obsolete Man" was a good episode. Except for one scene where the character of "Wordsworth" reading the Bible, which did not impress me much because I am an atheist.
@@robertpolanco1973 sounds like you're an orthodox atheist ? The thing I don't like about Bible Thumpers is there intolerance irony anyone? I'm saying that in fun and I do love Jesus I'm just not much for religion
@@breth8159 - Well, Bret, I DON'T love that imaginary figure named "Jesus Christ" and he is nothing but a totally overrated superfraud. After all, REALITY RULES and I am in total opposition to ALL religions. Furthermore, you are right about me being an orthodox atheist as well.
@@williamgullett5911 - Look, Billy, I don't think being an atheist can only mean "miserable," you fool! People can be miserable regardless of it, including religious people. So get off my back, will ya?
I can appreciate the attempts to resurrect the series, and I'll watch and appreciate them for what they are, but none will hold a candle to the original. Ever.
As someone who grew up in Binghamton I am delighted beyond words to see Jordan Peele at the helm on this!!! I grew up not far from the carousel where he is honored and I’ve ridden it many times!!!!
Peele was a funny guy but I don't find any of his social commentary completing or accurate. Rod Serling was in a totally different league. And that isn't necessarily a slam on Peele. It's just that previous generations had a better understanding of humanity nature. A wisdom we have lost and even willingly argue against when presented with it. We have all the knowledge in the Pam of our hand but none of the wisdom our grandparents and great grandparents had.
I wish I could remember the first episode I saw but I can say I've been watching this since middle school. Binge watching the marathon on the Syfy channel. 27 now and still love it
It is impossible to re-make The Twilight Zone nowadays, besides the fact that the country is filled to the brim with imbecility and ignorance; You would need someone whose life and love will be totally dedicated to the project as Serling's life was. Those days are gone, nothing but stupidity, mediocrity and greed remains.
Well a Twilight Zone reboot was inevitable. This is the reboot era. Everything is getting rebooted. But I think Peele is the only choice for a 2019 reboot. However, I wish it was more of a colab project, with lots of horror directors, and writers. But if you had to pick only one, Jordan is the man.
The original show, with the combination of all the elements (including being in black and white) that made it appear the way we remember it, cannot be topped by any program that tries to mimic any or all of those elements. It really should be left alone, once and for all.
The new twilight zone has zero nuance and forced topical references that won't work in 20 years, unlike the original which had deeper messages and interesting stories that are relatable regardless of era.
Serling was staunchly against political correctness and "social justice" mobs. I don't think he'd be too happy with the direction the new show is going. Go watch the episode "The darkness" and look at the creative driving force of the twilight zone today. Serling would turn in his grave if he saw the exact thing he sought to prevent happening on the platform he invented to stop it. If there is a magnum opus there are those whom seek to correct and improve upon it only to shatter its original beauty. Thats why no remake has done well and this one will flop too.
Nothing beats the original man! It's what started it and Rod Serling is the OG! Plus I can never take Jordan Peele seriously after all the comedy and Key and Peele 😂 not a knock against him; he has done a great job with all of his work! But I always see his face and LMAO thinking of all the funny jokes!
How wonderful to see a lot of the interview was with Rod Serling's daughter. I was disappointed with the first reboot of the show, but knowing that Serling's family is behind this new effort is enough to get me to give it a try.
Ikr! Bummer! But, you can watch the first episode, if you look on TH-cam, I just watched it today. CBS All Access with Jordan Peele taking on the role as the Rod Sterling introduction. "The Comedian" very interesting. 🤔
Its criminal that they are trying to resurrect this classic show . Can't recapture the greatness . It was the talent behind Twilight Zone that made it classic . No one today can duplicate it . HANDS OFF
The precocious Rod Serling was a god up in Binghamton where I attended school. He was even awarded the very 1st star on the 'Sidewalk of Stars'. "You are about to enter another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, The Twilight Zone!"
I think Serling in the 1970 interview was talking about Night Gallery that had premiered in 1969, not Twilight Zone because by 1970 twilight zone had been off the air for 6 years, it was from 1959-1964. CBS's own people mucked that one up. He was taking about whether to renew Night Gallery because Twilight Zone was already gone.
Nearly 60 years since it was first broadcasted on television. I'm excited to see this new one with Mr. Peele himself. I still have those Black and White vibes, but then again I still cannot wait to see this version.
There's nothing like the original, is there ... which has its 60th anniversary on October 2, 2019. And actually, TZ wasn't a slew of gems; many of the episodes were mediocre or even duds if we look at the entire series as a whole. But the good ones are _so_ very good and well crafted that they stand the test of time, they still remain outstanding entertainment, pieces of important art. Every time I watch "Walking Distance" I get choked up. Beautiful story. Who can't relate to that sentiment? It's universal. And I adore some of the creepy episodes too: The HitchHiker, Night Call, Twenty Two, Mirror Image, The After Hours. They're delightfully macabre. Rod Serling, thanks again for giving us this gift. An extraordinary legacy. We still love and appreciate it. Your writing will continue to touch and delight generations to come.
Although its not high on peoples list, I love "No time like the past" the 2nd half is where it's at. The one episode that makes me tear up is "I sing the body electric" Don't watch that one if you don't wanna cry :)
Rod Serling is the person how suggested The Statue of Libary be used in The Planet of the Apes (1968) Hope this remake is better than the last one. It did not even make it to 10 shows.
KCVids816. It did only have one fairly good episode though. It was quite weak. The 80s reboot had about a dozen good episodes, that were not just remakes. The movie was just plain bad.
We all have our favorite episode(s) of the Twilight Zone. Mine is, "Will The Real Martian Please, Stand Up" Scared the begeezus out of me when he took off his cap and you see that third eye!
I swear---My first episode of Twilight Zone was "Living Doll" and NOTHING freaked me out more.. After that episode and then there was "To Serve Man" and I was addicted from that moment on. There was no going back
A J I did like the episode by Harlan Ellison about a man on the run from the devil. I don’t believe it was a remake of any original TZ episode, but it was a clever episode in it’s own right.
A J Well I’m afraid I don’t remember the exact season but it came out in the mid to late eighties and it was also adapted for The Twilight Zone comics series in 1990 having been written by Ellison with art by Neal Adams. The episode itself had quite a bit of humor in it, It’s about a gangster’s underling whose soul is due to be claimed by the devil and he’s on the run from him trying to escape and he turns to his gangster boss for help. I don’t remember who starred in it I’m afraid, I don’t think it was anyone I’ve ever heard of. You might could find it on a Hulu or TH-cam or somewhere else if you Google Harlan Ellison/The Twilight Zone.
Even as a kid I always loved Rod Serling's voice.
It's as distinctive as a fingerprint. The second you hear it, you know who's talking.
It's high noon time
Thats a voice with someone with Lung cancer
Jayne Holmes had a great voice for doing documentaries.
As soon as I hear his voice saying, “Submitted for your approval,” I think, “You have it.” Best writer in American history. Massively, criminally underrated. Taken too soon 👍
Nothing will top the original Twilight Zone. Nothing.
I would say the one in the 80's
Because of the deeper themes at the time
Agree
You can't top the original.
Jordan Peele is a terrible choice for host. Just because he's the new horror it guy he got the gig but he's a buffoon in the role
Probably only Outer Limits !
🇧🇷 I'm currently watching the original series and I'm fascinated by the quality of the script and the themes covered. A series ahead of its time.
NOBODY could top Serling and his writers. I expect a big disappointment from the new series.
Love Twilight Zone. One of the best series in TV history. Rod Serling's intros and outros are iconic.
His shows still give me chills with the right setting
no, it wasn't "ahead of it's time", it was just GOOD
Along with so many other great writings and productions back then. We had the Hallmark Theater shows...
When I was 12 and 13 and my father was stationed in Japan {1961-1962) my friends and I took turns retelling Twilight Zone episodes during our lunch hours at school. Points accrued for remembering the smaller detail. Anytime is good for the Twilight Zone.
I often did that myself in the early 80s....when VCRs were just out....but when we were at school....
Retelling. You mean telling the story not watch the episode itself?
Rod Serling made this show
One of the greatest writers of any genre!
He also had a way with words for sure.
Rod didn't write anything he adapted ideas from other writer's books.
Chris Lovitt still, the man was talented. adaptating a story is difficult
It’s amazing how much of the original series still holds up perfectly to this day, like the ideas they came up with for that show are still relevant as ever, the writing was so perfect
I loved this show as a child and was so sad when it was discontinued. Th original is even better 60 years later.
Annie Tiques You bet!!!😍😍
Successful series ran five years and then quit. The contracts were five years. The shows that didn't degrade mostly struck the sets after the first contract was up. Notice how un-funny Andy Griffith was in it's post fifth season.
TZ did the five years and then he moved on to Hollywood. That was less than fully successful (Apes) so he came back to TV
🔵What a great series! I think I was 10yrs old when I saw my first TZ episode. I was hooked after watching just one show. I still watch it even though now I know the scripts so well, I can speak the dialog with the actors.😄😁 Walking Distance, A World Of His Own, Burning Sun, Queen Of The Nile, so many great episodes. I wish there were more.
Impossible. Nothing was better then the original sorry lol
@@justaguy6560 🔵1000% agree❗
Nothing is as Good as the Original Twilight Zone.
Louis Murphy ....No one replaces Rod Serling. NO ONE.
Yes, you can never go home again! Lol!
New one SUUUCKS...
@@windsofmarchjourneyperrytr2823 no it doesn't
Ok. Ignorant, you don't even give the new one a chance with your stance, stay ignorant.
One reoccurring theme I noticed in the Twilight Zone was an adult man who was under excessive stress, and constantly trying to escape to some other place, usually an ideal fantasy world. This describes at least 5 different episodes in the original series.
Sounds like someone needs to step off at Willoughby. ....Willoughby. Next stop, Willoughby!
@@fifthrider PUSH! PUSH! PUSH!
@@fifthrider Just watch that 1st step! its a doozy!
...the Music alone was enough to make me scared as a kid...lol...personal favorite: Burgess Meredith ~ breaking his glasses, on the steps of the library - when he finally had 'all the time in the world' to read. thank you jordan peele for keeping the suit. it works. and well done.
quinn hendley “To Serve Man” for the revelation!
Three of the first season's episodes (and the title music for that year) had music by Bernard Herrmann. This was at the same time he scored the Hitchcock films VERTIGO, NORTH BY NORTHWEST and PSYCHO.
Imo Merediths acting in the Obsolete Man was as good as it gets
I remember that Burgess Meredith episode to this day!
One of the BEST!@@domer1980
I'm from the Binghamton area and he's our pride and joy. The film debuted in Binghamton and this show will never be duplicated 😊
I grew up there as a kid in the 80s but had no idea! What a small world.
Cayoga area?
@@piper888 cayuga lake is one of the finger lakes just 55 miles north of Binghamton near Ithaca
The original is the best! No way will this be as good. Rod Serling's was before his time and just awesome. I cried the day he died.
No one said it is.
Might not be better but that doesn't mean you can't like it
The first episode was pretty good, just have to give it time. Nothing was ever thought to be amazing when it first came out. Trash movies from decades ago are awesome today.
Man he was 50-51yrs old when he passed? What a shame smh
Only 50 but yeah.
@ Four packs a day, is what they said, that's incredible. But I guess back then you didn't have to go out for smoke breaks, you just lit up wherever. At least Walt Disney made it to 65, though.
He did smoke like every episode
Too much smoking
DAMNNNNNN he was only 50 years old when he Died
Original Twilight Zone wont be topped, everything about it is iconic
I could binge watch the Twilight Zone all day and night.
I downloaded the old twilight zone and I have watched it a few times
The old show is way better.
Yeah
I just started watching the original series of The Twilight Zone and I’m amazed how well done it’s done. I love it and now I’m watching 2-3 episodes every weekend
Now you watch it...
Rod Serling loved upstate New York and would incorporate it from time to time in his Twilight Zone episodes. One example was the episode that took place in a bus station ("Mirror Image": Season 1, Episode 21). When a bus is announced, the names of the towns were all from upstate NY (although somewhat randomly chosen as there was no logical bus route that would have included that particular set of towns).
My understanding is that Serling's love for where he grew up extended to giving back to his community as well as training the next generation of people in his craft. My brother was a broadcasting major at one of the NY state colleges near Rochester. One of the most treasured moments in my brother's college experience was when Serling spoke to one of his classes for the entire lecture period. But he went beyond the minimum required. For any of the students who had a free period after that class was over, they retreated to the student union and Serling continued to talk with them and answer their questions. As I recall, he stayed for another hour or two.
Another way that Serling used to identify with upstate NY was the name of his production company: Cayuga Productions. Cayuga Lake is one of the Finger Lakes (he lived near the lake on and off during much of his adult life) and I connect with it because I went to college "far above Cayuga's waters" at Cornell. Sadly I didn't find a way to avail myself of the opportunity to possibly meet Serling while I was at Cornell from 1970-74. Serling was teaching across town at Ithaca College throughout that time until he died in 1975.
Thank you for sharing your brother’s awesome story with Mr. Serling, what a guy!
Imagine if you will a world where Rod Serling had lived another 30-40 years and what he could have contributed to the arts and philosophies. Thank you Mr. Serling. RIP.
Perhaps that is why we still are fascinated with and discuss Rod and the show. A brief brilliant comet to observe and wonder with...and to bid adieu. Do do de do...😁
Just two words to describe the original Twilight Zone series: "Timeless Classic."
I liked every incarnation of The Twilight Zone. Some episodes are obviously better than others.
I was 7 when the first episode of The Twilight Zone aired on TV, and since we lived near Binghamton, where everyone knew who Rod Serling was because of articles in the local paper, it made it extra special.
We got three channels on the TV in 1959, and there had been nothing like Twilight Zone, ever. My whole family, all the neighbors, and everyone we knew was crazy about it. We looked forward to the first episode for weeks, and no one was disappointed. I felt like I was born in nowhere, and then Twilight Zone made our area both everywhere and the center of the universe.
The episodes were so imaginative, meaningful, thought-provoking, and varied. Some of them were spellbinding. We talked excitedly about every episode after it aired, in our home, in school, and at work. Most TV at the time was a "vast wasteland," but Twilight Zone was the opposite. It was about aliens, the threat of atomic warfare, other worlds, human nature, our deepest fears and desires.
Suddenly the Binghamton area was more than just IBM, the local college, Link [trainer] Corporation and EJ shoe factory. Rod got arrested once, only yards from our house, speeding down Route 17 to his cottage on Cayuga Lake. Even that was exciting.
Later, after Rod's death, I ran into a childhood friend of his. They grew up together, played as kids, and were in school together. His father ran a "we buy junk and sell antiques" store, where Rod and he liked hanging out. He told me they used to save the ends of bread wrappers to see B movies at the local theater, for free. A friend of mine worked with a woman who dated Rod once in high school. She remembered that he was short and hairy, and kind of intense.
While watching TZ episodes on the internet, I still find many of them remarkably good, and they bring back a lot of memories, and many elements of them I remember just from seeing them the first time. But it was really different watching them for the first time back when I was young. They were so special.
Good story, thanks. I grew up near Cayuga Lake and met Mr Sterling when I was 8 yrs old in '62 telling stories around a campfire.
@@dennisthehirev580
That's so cool. When I was growing up we'd take day trips to the Finger Lakes area, including hiking in Taughannock Falls State Park or Watkins Glen, and the minute we descended into Ithaca, it was like we entered the Shangri-La of Upstate New York. It was where I would have liked to have grown up, had I been given a choice. After I grew up and lived in Europe and South America though, I learned I wanted sunny and mountains.
Even after Rod made it in Hollywood, I think he gravitated toward the family cottage on Cayuga Lake to escape the superficiality of Hollywood, and it was also a place where he probably liked to write.
In the top 5 of greatest programs in TV history in my opinion.
Nat Hiken's writing for Bilko and Car 54 Where Are You is way up there too. New York, the crucible.
My top 3 are Twilight Zone, Andy Griffith, and Columbo
It's 1962, I'm 8 yrs old and vacationing with family in a rented cottage on Cayuga Lake in Upstate NY. After dark my big brother John led me to another cottage where there were several people sitting around a campfire. I sat near the campfire with the others. With his face lit by the flames, a cigarette in his hand and in a very familiar voice, was Mr. Rod Serling himself telling a story. I sat mezmorized and in awe. My fondest memory. Thanks for the memories Mr. Serling.
Love the finger lakes but alas never got to meet him 😞
What a cool memory that is to have... Good for you
Many of the themes of "Death" in Serling's writing came from the brutality he experienced from WW2... He won a purple heart.. He was a real good guy... Thank you for your work. Taken from us far too early.
*earned a Purple Heart
@@diggsboy3246 As well as a Bronze star.
Serling always had a fascination about "going home." His show brings "me" home - to childhood, to my hometown, and to the 1950s (all in black & white). He's always been a hero of mine. An incredible writer. I just watched "Seven Days in May" (again) with Lancaster, Douglass, March, and Ava Gardner. People don't know that he wrote the screenplay for that film. I'd also recommend the movie "Patterns" (1956) which was highly acclaimed and won him a writer's award.
Serling did have a deep longing or nostalgia about the past, didn't he? Or certainly about his past. Growing up in Binghamton was a wonderous time for Serling. He was loved and got to experience the type of childhood we should want for every individual on this planet. To love and be loved. If only that would be true for everyone.
I used to watch it as a child, now almost 60 yrs old every day I am truly living in the twilight zone. Lies being sold as truth every day, very bizarre.
I miss just watching it on tv🙂
Makes you realize most of the world has always lived in the Twilight Zone.
Look the dvds up online. They're all right there. Cheaper to buy a box set gently used.
@@sclogse1 I agree..
The complete series is on sale now on iTunes for $25.00. Well worth the money.
Winds of March Journey/Perry tribute band I’d get the Blu-Ray set, it has way more extras than the DVD set and the HD detail work in 1080 is just beautiful.
I'm from Binghamton. Met Rod Serling several times when he came here to speak to our public speaking class. Helen Foley our teacher was Rod's teacher so he came once a year to speak. VERY cool guy. I have the box set of ALL original Twlight Zone episodes. Watch it often. He has DEFINATELY stood the test of time.
@Cool. Mines on DVD's. Was a gift.
The reason I bought a VCR back in the 70's was to tape the Twilight Zone. Loved the show back as a kid in the early 60's and beyond. Rod Serling is a personal hero. Just a few minutes ago I realized in was October 2, 2019. Fifty years since the Twilight Zone debut.
" Walking Distance " as well as " The Hunt " & " The Passerby " ..so touching ! ..I am almost 56 and LOVE this DVD set, I have them all..Thank you Rod !
Certain things should be left alone, this show is one of them
I agreed, but when I found out Jordan Peele was executive producer/narrator I thought this had the best chance possible to be just as good as the original. Just watched "The Comedian" It wasn't too bad.
I predict the new series will not work !!
Joe King new series is actually pretty good!
Even Rod Serling's daughter is happy to have Jordan Peele working on this, I'm glad it finally got a good reboot it was much needed, don't know why people are hating on it so much. There are only 2 episodes out right now anyways, even the original Twilight Zone wasn't a hit at first, Rod says it himself in this video. I am liking it so far and idc what the critics are saying Jordan is doing a great job, don't knock it till you watch it.
Production FourTwo J. Edward I used To like Jordan Peele but he has increasingly become annoying, and I am worried for this series.
After 57 years, Serling's death, 3 remakes & a theatrical movie, the ORIGINAL is still the BEST. This will always be a classic that never dies & still be relevant at whatever time. Thank you, Mr. Serling.
"You are about to enter another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, the Twilight Zone!"
This show was never forgotten: SYFY network runs Thanksgiving and New Year's marathons annually, and on late night blocks. Don't need Jordan Peele to remind me of its greatness (maybe just the kids who think history started in 2010).
I wish they would put it on regular CBS. Like the original series was.
Its HBO style content with cursing and such. Not Network CBS' style. Also paid subscription is the future model and they are trying to draw people to their new platform as the old network model hemorrhages money. If you like the content CBS produces and want more in the future, it's probably a good idea to in invest in them.
I’ve loved this show for my entire life
Time enough at last.. the best episode.
We all have our favorite episode(s) mine was, "Will The Real Martian Please, Stand Up"
I’m 15 years old and I always watched the original with my Grandma, dad, brother and mom!! It’s a beautiful show in my opinion. Maybe because I enjoy writing it’s a very well done show. It’s amazing.
The original show and Mr. Serling can never be replaced
They SJW one of my favorite childhood shows, just watch as the season continues......
The 80's reboot was also quite good although not as good as the original.
How about the 2002? That fat black man seems like a weird choice
Steven Mancera whoa okay forest whitaker is a god
The 80’s reboot wasnt good
Not scary enough
@@gamingsaint6238 Twilight zone was not a horror show. It was not meant to be scary.
A young Robert Redford, hottt!
Yes he was. But even more gorgeous in the early 70s. Check out The Candidate, The Way We Were, All The President's Men, etc. So very handsome.
@@rocknroller77 What about: "This Property is Condemned" "Three Days of the Condor", "Barefoot in the Park", I can go on and on, he's one of my old time favorites.
Seriously, sploosh
I know that episode. I don't recall his name, but he was essentially "death," coming to take the old lady out of this life. I think part of the deal is: when you're old enough, death _does_ start to look good.
josephgaviota - "Nothing in the Dark" aired January 5, 1962.
I have listened to many narrators to date.... But none beats rod serling.... Its his voice which made twilighit zone epic. He gat a way with words men
The one show that I watch now that gives me the same kind of creepiness as the old "Twilight Zone" is "Black Mirror." Mind you this show is taken in the present and future, but boy does it make you think.
Dusty Moth Oh, will have to check it out.👍😊
I need to start watching that again, haven't seen it since the Christmas special.
@@lynnepierce3676 Black Mirror is a great show! Just don't start with Season 1, Episode 1 called National Anthem! Its a great episode, but...yea.
@@avalle47 "Just don't start with Season 1, Episode 1 called National Anthem!"
Yeah, that was special.
Black Mirror is PHENOMENAL
I only wish Season 4 of the original series was on Netflix.
I was disappointed season 4 wasn't on Netflix too. All seasons are on Hulu though.
I’ve got the entire Twilight Zone Seasons 1-5 on Blu-Ray.
@@cha5 I've got season's 1-5 on my firestick.!!
Al Simmons (shrug) I’ve never liked firesticks, they have the ethereal quality of a match for me, Plus I love quite a few of the extras ranging from commentary tracks such as commentary tracks by Neil Gaiman, Bill Mumy and others to music only tracks and the original commercials to Rod’s multi interviews on his legacy among others.
all of it is on fmovies
This show still gives me chills.
You can't top perfection.
How many of us learned our appreciation of irony and the macabre from this great series?
8:30 "the days of heavy network censorship are gone now" .... L O L
I love TZ today, tomorrow, and as long as I live. It has always been a show that makes you think. Thank you Mr Sterling. Thank you Mr. Peele for keeping the journey alive today! I'll be checking out the new TZ.
The Twilight Zone is one of those shows that will always just keep getting better with time
I can't believe nobody remembers NIGHT GALLERY! That was fantastic also!
Watch the Obsolete Man the best episode ever !
@Bret H - I am sure that "The Obsolete Man" was a good episode. Except for one scene where the character of "Wordsworth" reading the Bible, which did not impress me much because I am an atheist.
@@robertpolanco1973 sounds like you're an orthodox atheist ? The thing I don't like about Bible Thumpers is there intolerance irony anyone? I'm saying that in fun and I do love Jesus I'm just not much for religion
@@breth8159 - Well, Bret, I DON'T love that imaginary figure named "Jesus Christ" and he is nothing but a totally overrated superfraud. After all, REALITY RULES and I am in total opposition to ALL religions. Furthermore, you are right about me being an orthodox atheist as well.
@@robertpolanco1973 you atheists sound extremely miserable
@@williamgullett5911 - Look, Billy, I don't think being an atheist can only mean "miserable," you fool! People can be miserable regardless of it, including religious people. So get off my back, will ya?
I can appreciate the attempts to resurrect the series, and I'll watch and appreciate them for what they are, but none will hold a candle to the original. Ever.
Of course not, but it's always good to see reinterpretations of it.
One of my *all time* favorite tv shows. Bought the DVDs and watch it all the time!!
Same here.
Ditto, this series still haunts me today. Great show to binge watch on Halloween night, with the lights off...🇵🇷🇺🇸😎
As someone who grew up in Binghamton I am delighted beyond words to see Jordan Peele at the helm on this!!! I grew up not far from the carousel where he is honored and I’ve ridden it many times!!!!
Ron Donson That must be so cool to have that carousel in the episode! I never knew that that was based on a real location.
Peele was a funny guy but I don't find any of his social commentary completing or accurate. Rod Serling was in a totally different league. And that isn't necessarily a slam on Peele. It's just that previous generations had a better understanding of humanity nature. A wisdom we have lost and even willingly argue against when presented with it. We have all the knowledge in the Pam of our hand but none of the wisdom our grandparents and great grandparents had.
I wish I could remember the first episode I saw but I can say I've been watching this since middle school. Binge watching the marathon on the Syfy channel. 27 now and still love it
_The Scary Door_ will always be the best adaption.
Jimmy See. That sounds very interesting. I’m going to look that up now 😁
It is impossible to re-make The Twilight Zone nowadays, besides the fact that the country is filled to the brim with imbecility and ignorance; You would need someone whose life and love will be totally dedicated to the project as Serling's life was. Those days are gone, nothing but stupidity, mediocrity and greed remains.
It’s rare to capture lightning twice. Serling was a genius. The first 3 seasons of the show are without peer.
Well a Twilight Zone reboot was inevitable. This is the reboot era. Everything is getting rebooted. But I think Peele is the only choice for a 2019 reboot. However, I wish it was more of a colab project, with lots of horror directors, and writers. But if you had to pick only one, Jordan is the man.
Prowler Cam yeah, and then when he went back to 30 minutes for the final, 5th season, they just were not as good as the first 3 seasons.
“Valley of the Shadow” Might be my Fav Twilight Zone Episode from the 60s series...But i got a lot of favs from the 60’s!
The original show, with the combination of all the elements (including being in black and white) that made it appear the way we remember it, cannot be topped by any program that tries to mimic any or all of those elements. It really should be left alone, once and for all.
Walking Distance was a masterpiece...
My favorite episode is: "The monsters are due on Maple Street".
I recently started watching the original and I love it
~7:05: "The Odyssey of Flight 33":
Look! Whats going on?
That looks like Central Park!
NO! Thats Jurassic Park!
Come into the light Mr. Wordsworth. State your occupation. I am a Librarian. Best episode ever.
Many of the stories from this original great series were Not From Earth. A message for humans - don’t smoke.
Watched "The Comedian" episode from the current series. Felt bludgeoned by all the political commentary.
The new twilight zone has zero nuance and forced topical references that won't work in 20 years, unlike the original which had deeper messages and interesting stories that are relatable regardless of era.
Truth
I’m pretty sure messages about racism and war will still be relevant in the future just as they were before
I don't like it either but beyond the Trump bashing what topical references are in there?
Serling was staunchly against political correctness and "social justice" mobs. I don't think he'd be too happy with the direction the new show is going. Go watch the episode "The darkness" and look at the creative driving force of the twilight zone today. Serling would turn in his grave if he saw the exact thing he sought to prevent happening on the platform he invented to stop it. If there is a magnum opus there are those whom seek to correct and improve upon it only to shatter its original beauty. Thats why no remake has done well and this one will flop too.
There is no episode of _'The Twilight Zone'_ called _'The Darkness'._
No mention made of the Twilight zone movie? That flick is iconic!
Was it Serling’s work?
Good Lord, don't remake the TZ. Today's "artists" can't match the quality of the original series.
Probably not, but I think if anyone can get close it's Jordan Peele.
We also have Black Mirror which is also fantastic.
I hope they can retain the good and evil allegories without becoming a left-wing orthodoxy "preach-fest."
@@boppob1343 Black Mirror can't hold a candle to the Twilight Zone.
tokenjoy it's actually good! I saw 2 episodes so far of the new version by Jordan Peele.
@@thoughtstorn854 They're terrible
You can’t fathom just how much I pray that this new iteration of the legendary show turns out half-decent.
Too late. It's on TH-cam.
How can Jordan Peele even try to match the Rod Serling narration? Set yourself up for failure.
I watched the new TZ. Did not have the impact of the original with Rod Serling at all!
Nothing beats the original man! It's what started it and Rod Serling is the OG! Plus I can never take Jordan Peele seriously after all the comedy and Key and Peele 😂 not a knock against him; he has done a great job with all of his work! But I always see his face and LMAO thinking of all the funny jokes!
8:22 "The days of heavy network censorship are gone now." Um... wut.
How wonderful to see a lot of the interview was with Rod Serling's daughter. I was disappointed with the first reboot of the show, but knowing that Serling's family is behind this new effort is enough to get me to give it a try.
Oh No. Social Justice Warriors trying to remake the Twighlight Zone?? I seriously doubt that will be worth watching..
Why does it have to be on a streaming service?? I can’t watch it! I’m not paying for another streaming service
Ikr! Bummer! But, you can watch the first episode, if you look on TH-cam, I just watched it today.
CBS All Access with Jordan Peele taking on the role as the Rod Sterling introduction.
"The Comedian" very interesting. 🤔
Because based on the pilot they feel it's essential to load up the dialogue with obscenity.
It is on their streaming service because they want to drive traffic to their site and increase their profits.
Greed.
The original Twlight Zone was the best.
Its criminal that they are trying to resurrect this classic show . Can't recapture the greatness . It was the talent behind Twilight Zone that made it classic . No one today can duplicate it . HANDS OFF
One of my favorite shows. I also liked the series from 2002 with Forrest Whitaker.
The precocious Rod Serling was a god up in Binghamton where I attended school. He was even awarded the very 1st star on the 'Sidewalk of Stars'.
"You are about to enter another dimension, a dimension not only of sight and sound but of mind. A journey into a wondrous land of imagination. Next stop, The Twilight Zone!"
I grew up in Johnson City and like you said he was our pride and joy
I think Serling in the 1970 interview was talking about Night Gallery that had premiered in 1969, not Twilight Zone because by 1970 twilight zone had been off the air for 6 years, it was from 1959-1964. CBS's own people mucked that one up. He was taking about whether to renew Night Gallery because Twilight Zone was already gone.
Nearly 60 years since it was first broadcasted on television. I'm excited to see this new one with Mr. Peele himself. I still have those Black and White vibes, but then again I still cannot wait to see this version.
Rod Serling was a master of writing and TV
Won't even waste my time watching the latest reincarnation.
The twilight zone is top 5 shows of all time
So agreed!
There's nothing like the original, is there ... which has its 60th anniversary on October 2, 2019. And actually, TZ wasn't a slew of gems; many of the episodes were mediocre or even duds if we look at the entire series as a whole. But the good ones are _so_ very good and well crafted that they stand the test of time, they still remain outstanding entertainment, pieces of important art. Every time I watch "Walking Distance" I get choked up. Beautiful story. Who can't relate to that sentiment? It's universal. And I adore some of the creepy episodes too: The HitchHiker, Night Call, Twenty Two, Mirror Image, The After Hours. They're delightfully macabre.
Rod Serling, thanks again for giving us this gift. An extraordinary legacy. We still love and appreciate it. Your writing will continue to touch and delight generations to come.
Although its not high on peoples list, I love "No time like the past" the 2nd half is where it's at.
The one episode that makes me tear up is "I sing the body electric" Don't watch that one if you don't wanna cry :)
Rod Serling is the person how suggested The Statue of Libary be used in The Planet of the Apes (1968) Hope this remake is better than the last one. It did not even make it to 10 shows.
But only elements of his script were used in the final draft.
If you're familiar with the original Twilight Zone, it's a really high bar to clear for any remake.
TOSStarTrek The last remake (2002-2003) had 43 episodes. It only lasted a season but that’s much more than 10 shows.
KCVids816. It did only have one fairly good episode though. It was quite weak.
The 80s reboot had about a dozen good episodes, that were not just remakes.
The movie was just plain bad.
Walking Distance - the first episode I've seen that had me hooked and also attempt to put everyone I know on.
My fav episode is from season 1 entitled The Sixteen MM Shrine with Ida Lupino a kind of Sunset Boulevard feel.
I have one from the first season called "The Fever". Really speaks to you about gambling addiction.
Also season 1 ; Judgement Night.
We all have our favorite episode(s) of the Twilight Zone. Mine is, "Will The Real Martian Please, Stand Up" Scared the begeezus out of me when he took off his cap and you see that third eye!
I was a major fan of the original series.
Great for the imigination.
I swear---My first episode of Twilight Zone was "Living Doll" and NOTHING freaked me out more.. After that episode and then there was "To Serve Man" and I was addicted from that moment on. There was no going back
the 80’s twilight zone wasn’t that bad either.
A J I did like the episode by Harlan Ellison about a man on the run from the devil.
I don’t believe it was a remake of any original TZ episode, but it was a clever episode in it’s own right.
I thought that one was pretty good actually.
cha5 Sorry, I’m not familiar with that episode. Would you know who was in it or which season?
A J Well I’m afraid I don’t remember the exact season but it came out in the mid to late eighties and it was also adapted for The Twilight Zone comics series in 1990 having been written by Ellison with art by Neal Adams.
The episode itself had quite a bit of humor in it, It’s about a gangster’s underling whose soul is due to be claimed by the devil and he’s on the run from him trying to escape and he turns to his gangster boss for help.
I don’t remember who starred in it I’m afraid, I don’t think it was anyone I’ve ever heard of.
You might could find it on a Hulu or TH-cam or somewhere else if you Google
Harlan Ellison/The Twilight Zone.
"The Lonely" is the best half hour of television ever filmed. Its about paradise lost. The death of love east of Eden.
I have loved The Twilight Zone my entire life. I owe Mr Serling such a great debt of gratitude.
Rod is the man..........