Escape's "Orient Express" was loosely adapted from the 1932 novel Stamboul Train by Graham Greene. (The book was later retitled Orient Express when it was released in the United States.) Stamboul Train was also adapted into a film called Orient Express in 1939.
There is little resemblance between Greene's novel and the plot of Escape's episode. So much so, that using the title and the author's name seems misleading. Most of Escape's adaptations for radio are to be admired, but that isn't the case with this episode. They left out ALL of the good stuff, and then made a story out of some other stuff.
It might have had something to do with the novel being too long for a half hour drama, or that most of it is too adult for a family show.
The episode begins in 1932, with businessman Gregory Myatt boarding the Orient Express in Ostend, Belgium. Shortly after his journey begins, he encounters a strange man in his compartment. That is his first warning that something isn't right, but there is more intrigue to come as they travel towards Instanbul.
Escape's "Orient Express" is a cute romp on a train, but if you get the chance, read the book.
"The Orient Express" was adapted by television writer Sheldon Stark and screenwriter Walter Newman. Norman MacDonnell produced/directed. William Conrad played Gregory Myatt. Also appearing were Edgar Barrier, Hans Conried, Gloria Grant, Harry Bartell, Ann Morrison, Jack Kruschen, and John Dehner.
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(Image from the 1955 edition of Orient Express from Bantam Books.)
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