Escape's "The Man From Tomorrow" tells the story of a former fighter pilot who trains to develop extraordinary sensory powers. This is a weak episode of Escape, (and kind of a downer), but technically it was well done. This episode was written by screenwriter Irving Reis, and it aired not long after his death in 1953. Suspense recycled this script in 1957, and in the intro, William N. Robson mentions that this radio play was the last one written by Reis.
As the episode opens, Dix reads a job announcement in the newspaper requesting an ex-fighter pilot to participate in a series of tests as part of a "daring experiment." When he arrives to apply for the position, there are sixty other unemployed ex-pilots already waiting. The applicants wait over two hours, and then they are subjected to a harrowing screening process that involves machine guns and a simulated plane crash. Afterwards, the traumatized veterans are abruptly given a token monetary compensation for the inconvenience and told to leave. Dix is the only one they want to talk to.
The doctors in charge of the experiment then explain to Dix that he will undergo tests over three years to develop and expand his sense of sound, hearing, taste, touch, etc. The purpose is to develop his powers of awareness beyond those of normal perceptions. For this he will be compensated $20,000 and signed for five more years at that salary. He also has to give up everything else in his life.
Dix agrees to take the job.
"The Man from Tomorrow" was written by Irving Reis and produced/directed by Antony Ellis. Lawrence Dobkin starred as Dix. Also appearing were Vivi Janiss, Edgar Barrier, Curt Martell, Jack Carroll, and Barney Phillips. This episode aired on August 23, 1953.
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Suspense later recycled this episode with Frank Lovejoy and his wife, Joan Banks, in the lead roles. This episode aired on September 1, 1957. William N. Robson produced and directed. Also appearing were Norm Alden, John Hoyt, and Peter Leeds.
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