The Obsolete Man - Twilight-Tober Zone

Summary

In this passionate analysis of *The Twilight Zone* episode 'The Obsolete Man,' the speaker discusses its powerful themes of human dignity, totalitarianism, and faith. The story follows a librarian, Romney Wordsworth, condemned by a government that devalues knowledge and religion. The episode explores the personal battle between Wordsworth and the oppressive Chancellor, with profound philosophical debates on the worth of humanity. Praising the performances, direction, and visuals, the speaker argues that this episode stands as the finest in the series, combining thought-provoking themes with unforgettable moments of defiance and despair.

Takeaways

• 😀 *The Obsolete Man* is considered the reviewer's favorite episode of *The Twilight Zone*, praised for its timeless themes and brilliant execution.
• 😀 The episode follows Romney Wordsworth, a librarian in a totalitarian society, who is declared obsolete by the state and sentenced to execution.
• 😀 Themes of individuality, freedom of expression, faith, and tyranny are central to the episode, with the conflict between Wordsworth and the Chancellor symbolizing a clash of ideologies.
• 😀 Burgess Meredith’s performance as Wordsworth is highlighted as one of his best, with his portrayal conveying defiance, dignity, and emotional depth.
• 😀 Fritz Weaver’s Chancellor is depicted as a complex antagonist, whose confidence dissolves as he faces the consequences of his authoritarian beliefs.
• 😀 The Bible and banned books serve as powerful symbols in the episode, representing defiance against the state and a belief in a higher moral order.
• 😀 The episode skillfully uses Biblical passages, such as Psalms 23, 59, 14, and 130, to enhance the themes of faith, justice, and human dignity in the face of death.
• 😀 The episode features striking visual design, particularly the courtroom setting, which draws from German expressionism and creates a foreboding atmosphere.
• 😀 Director Elliot Silverstein’s vision for the episode is praised for its pacing, use of time, and editing choices, though there was a disagreement with the episode’s editor over the final cut.
• 😀 The dramatic twist at the end, where the Chancellor is declared obsolete and punished by a mob, serves as a powerful commentary on the consequences of blind loyalty to a failing state.
• 😀 *The Obsolete Man* is considered a quintessential *Twilight Zone* episode, blending social commentary, philosophy, and suspense into a thought-provoking narrative.

Q & A

What is the central theme of 'The Obsolete Man' episode in *The Twilight Zone*?

The central theme of the episode revolves around the dehumanizing effects of totalitarian regimes, the value of individuality, freedom of expression, and the importance of faith and knowledge in the face of oppression.

How does Romney Wordsworth's profession as a librarian relate to the broader themes of the episode?

Romney Wordsworth's role as a librarian symbolizes the preservation of knowledge and individuality. In a totalitarian state where books and religion are banned, his profession makes him 'obsolete,' highlighting the dangers of censorship and control over intellectual freedom.

Why does the Chancellor view Romney Wordsworth as obsolete?

The Chancellor views Romney as obsolete because the state has deemed books and libraries unnecessary, eliminating the need for intellectual figures like Wordsworth. He represents the suppression of ideas that challenge the state’s ideologies.

What is the significance of the Bible verses that Romney reads in the episode?

The Bible verses Romney reads, particularly from Psalms, serve as acts of defiance against the state. They reflect his faith in God and his rejection of the state’s denial of a higher power. These verses also underscore his strength and dignity as he faces death.

How do the performances of Burgess Meredith and Fritz Weaver contribute to the episode's impact?

Burgess Meredith's portrayal of Romney is powerful, displaying a blend of resilience, intelligence, and defiance. Fritz Weaver’s portrayal of the Chancellor is equally compelling, showing a shift from arrogance to desperation. Their performances drive the emotional depth and philosophical conflicts in the episode.

What is the significance of the episode's setting, particularly the courtroom and Wordsworth's room?

The courtroom and Wordsworth's room are visually striking, reflecting the episode's themes of oppression and surveillance. The courtroom’s grand, oppressive set emphasizes the power of the state, while Wordsworth's room becomes a space for his defiance and philosophical stand against the system.

What is the moral message delivered by the episode's conclusion?

The moral message of the episode is that any government or ideology that strips individuals of their dignity and humanity is ultimately 'obsolete.' The episode emphasizes the value of human life, individuality, and the importance of standing up against oppressive forces.

How does the final scene with the Chancellor’s fate tie into the episode’s broader themes?

The Chancellor's fate—being declared 'obsolete' and torn apart by a mob—serves as a powerful reversal, illustrating the ultimate failure of the state's oppressive ideology. It shows that, in the end, the truth of human dignity and individuality prevails over authoritarian control.

What role does the director, Elliot Silverstein, play in shaping the episode's visual style?

Elliot Silverstein’s direction is crucial in creating a visually striking and tense atmosphere. The use of exaggerated stage-like sets, harsh lighting, and German Expressionist influences contributes to the oppressive mood of the episode, enhancing its themes of control and surveillance.

What conflict occurred between director Elliot Silverstein and the episode’s editor, and how did it impact the final cut?

Elliot Silverstein had a major disagreement with the editor, Jason Bernie, over the final cut of the episode’s conclusion. Silverstein wanted a more intense and disturbing scene, which led to a compromise. This disagreement led to changes in the industry, giving directors more control over the final edit of their projects.