Ep 3. The Emissary

The Ray Bradbury Theater season 2 episode 3, titled "The Emissary," is a chilling tale of a young boy named Timothy who is confined to his bedroom due to a debilitating illness. The story is set in a small town in New England, where Timothy's mother tries to keep her son company by reading him stories and bringing him treats. One day, she decides to bring him a present in the form of a black, furry toy dog, which she names Shuck.

As Timothy's illness worsens, he becomes increasingly dependent on Shuck for companionship and comfort, believing that the dog has special powers that can help him heal. Shuck seems to have a life of its own, moving around the room and even appearing to gaze out the window at times.

At first, Timothy's mother is pleased to see that her son is so enamored with the toy dog, but soon she begins to notice something sinister about it. She notices that the dog's fur is becoming matted and dirty, and that it seems to be emitting a foul odor. She also becomes suspicious of Shuck's movements, noticing that it seems to be moving around the room even when no one is touching it.

As Timothy's health continues to decline, his mother becomes more and more obsessed with Shuck, convinced that the dog is some kind of emissary from the afterlife that is trying to help her son. She becomes convinced that if she can figure out the dog's secret, she can save her son from certain death.

"The Emissary" is a haunting story that explores themes of obsession, love, and the mysteries of the afterlife. The episode is beautifully shot and features strong performances from the actors, particularly the young actor playing Timothy. The tension builds slowly but steadily throughout the episode, leading to a chilling climax that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats.

This episode of The Ray Bradbury Theater is a must-see for fans of horror and supernatural stories, and will leave viewers pondering the meaning of life and death long after the credits have rolled. With its unforgettable characters, eerie atmosphere, and well-crafted plot, "The Emissary" is a standout episode that showcases the brilliance of Ray Bradbury's storytelling.