Shadows of Fear: White Walls and Olive Carpets (ITV 23 Feb 1971, with Ian Bannen)

White Walls and Olive Carpets has something of a proto episode of Thriller feel about it with it’s tale of menace set in an isolated country home.

When the story opens Lena is about to visit the country home where her lover Robert lived with his wife who has just been killed in a car accident. Lena very quickly starts to get very bad vibes about the house.

Lena and Robert had been involved in an intense affair before his wife died but had broken it off now although they are back together Lena thinks Robert’s feelings may have changed. Robert reveals that his wife killed herself after receiving a letter telling all about the affair.

When Robert reveals that he knows Lena sent the letter and that his wife wan’t actually killed in the accident (just very very badly injured) it’s a twist that turns the story on it’s head. The payoff in the final scene when it arrives is definitely on the morbid side but truly excellent.

The episode, apart from a brief scene at the start, is a two hander between Ian Bannen and Natasha Parry. Bannen does that whole slight air of menace thing so well of course.

classic quote
“You’re like a driver who runs someone down and then blames them for scratching the paint.”

production details
UK / ITV – Thames / 1×50 minute episode / Broadcast Tuesday 23 February 1971 at 9.00pm

Writer: Hugh Leonard / Production Design: Stan Woodward / Director: James Gatward

Series: Shadows of Fear Episode 8 (of 11)

cast
Natasha Parry as Lena
Ian Bannen as Robert
Geoffrey Wright as Actor

Alastair James is the editor-in-chief of Memorable TV, leading the charge in covering today's must-see television. A lifelong television enthusiast, his passion began with a deep dive into the world of classic sci-fi, culminating in his role as editor of "Beyond the Static," a publication devoted to celebrating iconic sci-fi series. While his love for classic television remains, Alastair's focus at Memorable TV is firmly on the present, analyzing the latest trends in the television landscape, from gripping crime dramas to the ever-evolving strategies of Survivor. His insights have been featured in numerous publications. At Memorable TV, Alastair's goal is to provide readers with sharp commentary, engaging reviews, and in-depth analysis of the shows dominating the current conversation.