Season 1, Episode 36

Written by Richard Matheson — Directed by Ralph Nelson — Starring Keenan Wynn, Phyllis Kirk, and Mary LaRoche

A playwright discovers he can bring people and objects into existence simply by describing them.

“A World of His Own” is another comedy episode of The Twilight Zone, but this is the first one that really worked for me. The difference might come down to the performances, particularly Phyllis Kirk as Victoria. She’s terrific, and once you understand why Victoria behaves the way she does, the episode takes on a different character.

Keenan Wynn is also entertaining as Gregory West, a playwright whose unusual talent gives him extraordinary control over his surroundings.

With such a small cast, and one room as the setting, the episode feels almost like a stage play.

There’s also an uncomfortable side to the humor. Gregory’s ability to conjure up women becomes a running joke, treating them as disposable characters he can create and control to suit his own needs.

The ending adds another unusual touch, breaking the fourth wall in a way that makes this a distinctive episode of the series. It’s a playful departure from the tension and horror that have made the show work best for me so far.

“A World of His Own” isn’t a classic, and its humor doesn’t erase the more questionable aspects of its premise. But I still had a good time with it.

Twilight Zone Verdict: Solid