Bomber's Moon (Playhouse 90)

"Bomber's Moon" was an American television play broadcast live on May 22, 1958, as part of the CBS television series, Playhouse 90. It was the 35th episode of the second season of Playhouse 90.^[1]

"Bomber's Moon"
Playhouse 90 episode
Robert Cummings in "Bomber's Moon"
Episode no.	Season 2 Episode 35
Directed by	John Frankenheimer
Written by	Rod Serling
Original air date	May 22, 1958 (1958-05-22)
Running time	90 minutes
Guest appearances
Robert Cummings as Col. Culver Rip Torn as Lt. Harrison Hazel Court as Mary Jarvis Martin Balsam as Capt. Mantell Larry Gates as Major J. Pat O'Malley as Pub keeper
Episode chronology

Rod Serling wrote the teleplay about American fliers stationed in England during World War II. John Frankenheimer directed. Robert Cummings, Rip Torn, Hazel Court, and Martin Balsam starred.

Plot

An American bomber wing is stationed in England during World War II. The commanding officer, Col. Culver, is emotionless. He accuses a young flier of cowardice.

Cast

• Robert Cummings as Col. Culver
• Rip Torn as Lt. Harrison
• Hazel Court as Mary Jarvis
• Martin Balsam as Capt. Mantell
• Larry Gates as Major
• J. Pat O'Malley as Pub keeper
• Cliff Robertson hosted the show.

Production

Martin Manulis was the producer and John Frankenheimer the director. Rod Serling wrote the teleplay.

Frankenheimer said of Cummings: "Bobby's a really fine dramatic actor, but people usually associate him only with comedy. Naturally enough I suppose. Directing an actor like this who feels immediately what the script wants and what the director wants makes you love this business."^[2]

Reception

In The New York Times, John P. Shanley praised Serling's dialogue as "fresh and striking", though occasionally "ornate and labored." He also praised the performances of Cummings, Torn, and Balsam.^[3]