The Vise

(1954)

Television / Series / Drama / Crime

Directed by Richard Lester and David MacDonald

Cast: Donald Gray, Colin Tapley and Ron Randell

Country: Great Britain

This popular anthology of mystery stories was originally produced for British television, presenting dramatic tales of individuals whose bad choices lead to their downfall. Many of the shows featured rugged private investigator Mark Saber, portrayed by Donald Gray, an English actor who had lost his left arm while serving in World War II. Guest Stars Petula Clark, Honor Blackman, and Patrick McGoohan - at the time all unknown in the States were among those who appeared on the show .

Hostage

Mark Saber does not usually respond to threats, but when an unknown woman phones him and threatens to commit suicide unless he calls round within half an hour, he feels it is his duty to act. She takes Stevie hostage and gives Saber three hours to find her friend or she will kill Stevie.

Count of Twelve

A financier manipulates the numbers to bankrupt a man he believes loves his wife.

Side Entrance

A husband begins a torrid affair with his secretary. His wife refuses to give him a divorce, so he plots her timely demise.

Bond of Hate

A nervous husband is convinced that his wife is plotting his murder. He schedules a trip to the Swiss Alps and his spouse decides to come along.

Dead Man's Evidence

A theater director's unscripted backstage affair with a young actress leads to blackmail and murder.

Gabriel's Crime

When Gabriel's suicide attempt is thwarted by Dr. George Campbell the troubled young man insinuates himself into the doctor's life like a deadly virus .

If This Be Murder

A famous mystery author will go to any lengths to keep his slavish assistant at the typewriter. Even killing the man's fiancee.

Farewell to Mrs. Forest

A difficult case of blackmail appears closed to Mark Saber when a victim is found drowned in her swimming pool. The evidence points to murder.