Ep 7. A Man with a Problem

A Man with a Problem is the seventh episode of the fourth season of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, which aired on November 17, 1958. The episode follows the story of James Medwick, a man who is constantly plagued by bad luck and misfortunes. One day, he receives a visit from a mysterious man who offers him a solution to all his problems.

The premise of the episode is quite simple, yet intriguing. From the very beginning, the viewers can tell that James Medwick is a man who is always down on his luck. He seems to be cursed with bad fortune, unable to catch a break no matter how hard he tries. It is quite evident that he is a sympathetic character, as the audience can relate to the frustration and despair that he feels. This makes the episode even more engaging, as we want to see if James will be able to overcome his problems.

Enter the mysterious man, who claims that he can solve all of James' problems. At first, James is skeptical, wondering who this man is and why he would help him. However, the man insists that he has the power to change James' fortunes, and that he can make him the happiest man in the world. Despite his reservations, James decides to take a chance and accept the man's offer.

The episode takes an interesting turn when the mysterious man tells James what he needs to do in order to change his luck. The solution seems simple enough, but it comes with a catch. James must commit a crime, one that is serious enough to land him in jail. However, the man assures James that he will be able to get out of jail quickly, and that he will be a free man again in no time. James is hesitant at first, but the allure of having his problems solved is too strong to resist.

This is where things start to get really interesting. James goes through with the plan, committing the crime that the mysterious man suggested. However, things don't go exactly as planned, and James ends up in jail for a lot longer than he anticipated. He is left to reflect on his decision, and what it has cost him. The episode becomes a character study of sorts, as we see James' psyche unravel in front of our eyes.

The climax of the episode is both suspenseful and dramatic. James' fate hangs in the balance as he faces the consequences of his actions. The tension is palpable, and we can't help but root for James, hoping that things will work out for him in the end.

Overall, A Man with a Problem is a great example of the classic Hollywood suspense that Alfred Hitchcock was famous for. It is a thrilling tale of desperation and bad luck, with a twist ending that will leave you guessing until the very end. If you're a fan of Hitchcock or classic television, this episode is definitely worth watching.