Ep 21. The Prime Mover

Two friends, Ace (Buddy Ebsen) and Jimbo (Dane Clark), live a quiet life in a small town. But one day, they discover that Ace has the power to move objects with his mind. Excited by the possibilities of their newfound ability, the two friends begin to exploit Ace's power to get rich quick, but their greed and selfishness soon bring about dangerous consequences. Meanwhile, a third friend, Kitty (Christine White), tries to convince them to use their power for good, but they ignore her warnings. As their actions become more reckless, they attract the attention of a mysterious man who may have his own intentions for their power. Will Ace and Jimbo continue down their destructive path, or will they listen to Kitty before it's too late?

The Prime Mover is a thought-provoking episode that explores the dangers of power and the consequences of using it for selfish gain. The two main characters, Ace and Jimbo, are portrayed as good-natured guys who just want to make a quick buck, but their actions soon reveal a darker side to their personalities. The episode raises questions about what we would do if we suddenly had the ability to move objects with our minds, and forces us to confront our own moral code.

One of the most interesting aspects of the episode is the relationship between the three friends. Kitty serves as a moral compass for Ace and Jimbo, trying to convince them to use their power for good. However, she is often dismissed as being overly cautious and not fun-loving enough. This dynamic is relatable, as we all have friends who may have different values or opinions than us. The episode highlights the importance of having people in our lives who challenge us and hold us accountable.

The Prime Mover also features great performances from the cast, especially Buddy Ebsen as Ace. Ebsen's portrayal of a man grappling with the power he has been given is nuanced and convincing. Dane Clark similarly shines as Jimbo, providing a perfect foil to Ebsen's more restrained character. Christine White delivers a solid performance as well, effectively conveying the frustration and concern her character feels towards her friends.

Visually, the episode is impressive as well. The special effects used to show Ace's power are simple but effective, and the black and white cinematography enhances the eerie and dreamlike quality of the story. The Twilight Zone has always been known for its unique and creative visual style, and The Prime Mover is no exception.

Overall, The Prime Mover is a standout episode in the second season of The Twilight Zone. It offers a thought-provoking exploration of power and morality while also featuring great performances and stunning visuals. The episode's themes are timeless, making it just as relevant today as it was when it first aired over 60 years ago.