Ep 21. Relative Value

In the gripping episode titled "Relative Value" from the fourth season of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, the renowned writer and director presents a thrilling tale of deception and greed. Set in the picturesque town of Cedarville, the story unravels with a web of lies, power struggles, and unexpected events that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

The episode begins with a close-knit and affluent family, the Harrisons, mourning the death of their beloved patriarch, Jacob Harrison. Left with a substantial inheritance, the family gathers at their vast estate to go over Jacob's will, eagerly awaiting their share of his fortune. However, the reading of the will reveals a shocking twist that nobody saw coming, which sets the stage for a series of treacherous events to follow.

Leland Harrison, Jacob's cunning and manipulative nephew, played by a talented guest star, opens the episode with his distinctive charm and sly demeanor. Leland is a shrewd businessman who has always felt undervalued and overlooked within the family. He eagerly anticipates his uncle's will, hoping it will bring him the recognition and wealth he so desperately seeks.

As the family gathers in the grandiose living room, all eyes are fixated on the family lawyer, Mr. Peterson, as he unveils the contents of the will. Tension fills the air as it is revealed that Jacob Harrison's vast fortune is to be split equally among his three children, Leland's cousins. Leland, disillusioned and furious, feels cheated as his name is nowhere to be found in his uncle's bequests.

Determined to claim his share of the family wealth, Leland sets an elaborate plan into motion. He enlists the help of a conniving former flame, Cynthia Drexel, who specializes in creating convincing false identities. Together, they hatch a carefully crafted scheme aimed at swindling Leland's unsuspecting family members out of their inheritance.

Their plan involves the creation of Clifton Davis, a supposed long-lost sibling of the Harrison clan, who conveniently appears just in time to claim a share of the inheritance. Leland feeds his unsuspecting relatives a fabricated tale of Clifton's troubled past, playing on their sympathies and creating a sense of duty towards their newfound sibling.

In the midst of their scheme, Leland's newfound family member soon becomes entangled in a web of lies and deceit. As Clifton grows closer to the Harrison family, his moral compass begins to question the validity of his actions. The audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Clifton grapples with his conscience, torn between loyalty to Leland and the newfound sense of belonging he has discovered with the Harrisons.

"Relative Value" skillfully explores complex themes of identity, family loyalty, and the lengths individuals are willing to go for personal gain. With impeccable direction and masterful storytelling, Alfred Hitchcock presents a gripping narrative that keeps viewers guessing until the very end.

As the episode unfolds, viewers are treated to a series of suspenseful moments, unexpected plot twists, and nail-biting revelations. Hitchcock's signature voyeuristic approach to storytelling captivates audiences, immersing them in the intricate world of the Harrison family and their insidious secrets.

"Relative Value" is a standout episode from Alfred Hitchcock Presents, showcasing the legendary director's unparalleled ability to weave gripping narratives that leave audiences enthralled. With its intricate plot, memorable characters, and thought-provoking themes, this episode serves as a testament to the enduring brilliance of Hitchcock's storytelling prowess.