Ep 27. The Confession

One Step Beyond was a suspenseful anthology series that aired from 1959 to 1961. The show explored paranormal and supernatural phenomena, each episode featuring a different story. Season 3 episode 27, titled "The Confession," is no exception.

The episode begins with Father Anton Giotto (played by William Conrad), a priest who has been called to hear the confession of a notorious criminal named Frank Douglas (played by James Franciscus). Father Giotto is surprised when Frank tells him that he has committed a crime so heinous, he doesn't expect forgiveness. Frank refuses to give any details, insisting that Father Giotto must hear his entire confession before passing judgement.

As Frank begins to reveal the details of his crime, we see flashbacks of his life and the events that led him to this moment. We learn that he was a successful lawyer who became involved with a woman named Mary (played by Joyce Bulifant) who was married to an abusive husband. When Mary's husband died in an apparent accident, Frank covered up her involvement, and they began a romantic relationship.

Frank's confession becomes increasingly shocking as he talks about his complicity in Mary's plot to kill her husband. He reveals that he has been living with the guilt of his involvement in the murder for years and that he can no longer bear the burden. Father Giotto listens intently, struggling with his own moral beliefs and the principles of forgiveness and redemption that he holds dear.

In the end, the truth comes out, and the ramifications of Frank's confession are far-reaching. It is a thought-provoking and emotional episode that explores themes of morality, guilt, and the power of confession and redemption.

One Step Beyond was ahead of its time, and "The Confession" is a prime example of the show's ability to captivate and intrigue audiences with its unique blend of suspense and the supernatural. Fans of classic TV will undoubtedly appreciate this episode's timeless themes and engaging storyline.