Next week on the Twilight Zone, we tell a story that we think might prove a rather haunting little item in the scheme of things. It tells of a small Mexican boy and a visitor from another planet. And it tells further what happens when this extra terrestrial traveller is faced with some of the less personable instincts of human beings, like fear, superstitions and intolerance. Our story is called “The Gift”.
A space ship crashes outside a small, quiet town in Mexico. Following an altercation, one police officer is dead and the alien has been shot. The authorities and townspeople are out for vengeance – and blood. The injured alien steals into the town, seeking asylum, and hopefully compassion.
But there is much more to this alien stranger than meets the eye. For he not only comes in peace, he comes bearing a “Gift”. A very special gift. But it’s a gift that, unfortunately for the world, is reduced to a pile of ashes because the people of this tiny village simply refused to listen for even a moment.
Episode 32 of The Twilight Zone’s third season aired on April 27, 1962 – just five days after Easter, which was very appropriate timing given the topic. Written by Rod Serling, and directed by Allen H. Miner, “The Gift” is perhaps the most under-appreciated TZ episode there is. Continue reading