This episode of "Playhouse 90" is unusual for two reasons. First, unlike most episodes, it was pre-recorded and not presented live. Second, it has a very large cast. While none of them are exactly A-list actors, there are MANY familiar faces...including a couple strange ones for this sort of film, Chico Marx* and Buster Keaton! You'll also see stars such as Jack Haley, Keenan Wynn, William Lundigan, Jane Greer, Cliff Edwards, Reginald Gardner, Charles Bronson, Jay C. Flippen and Sylvia Sidney.
The story begins in a control tower. A flight bound from Miami to Idlewild Airport (later renamed JFK Airport) in New York City is overdue and the tower cannot contact them. They might see the plane on radar, though they aren't sure it's the right plane AND they cannot get the radar contact to respond. This film is about those on the ground and their reactions to the overdue flight.
My favorite character in this film was played by Jack Haley. He plays an incredibly jaded and sleazy publicity agent...and he's just terrific. But the film had many nice performances...due to some excellent writing. Well worth seeing...and very suspenseful and taut.
*It was VERY interesting seeing and hearing Chico Marx, as he didn't use his familiar Italian-like accent but sounds more like himself...which is unusual and is reason enough for some folks to watch it.