Alfred Hitchcock Presents season 7 episode 39 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

In this twist of fate, Hugo, a young runaway, finds solace and a sense of belonging in a carnival, only to be ensnared in a web of deceit and manipulation. Mistaking illusion for reality, he becomes involved in a tragic plot driven by love, jealousy, and the allure of magic. His innocence and misconceptions about magic lead him down a path that ends in a police arrest for a crime he did not intend to commit. The episode explores themes of manipulation, the blurred lines between reality and illusion, and the tragic consequences of misunderstanding.

Full Episode S07E39 Recap

### Introduction to the Sorcerer's Apprentice - A monologue about using modern science instead of ancient divination methods to predict the future, humorously noting an x-ray of a goat predicting rain and finding lost car keys. ### Hugo's Discovery and Rescue - Hugo is found unconscious outside by Milton and another character, who bring him into a trailer for shelter. - Irene, Milton's partner, reluctantly agrees to care for Hugo, who appears starved and without identification. ### Hugo Wakes Up - Hugo wakes up confused, thinking he might be dead, but is reassured by Vic, a magician, and his wife Irene. - Hugo shares his backstory of running away from a home and struggling to survive in Toledo, leading to his current state of hunger and vulnerability. ### Hugo's Integration into the Carnival - Hugo is offered food and comfort by Vic and Irene, despite Irene's initial reluctance. - Hugo expresses fear and fascination towards Vic's profession as a magician, associating magic with devilish powers. ### The Carnival Life - Hugo is introduced to George Morris, a high wire artist, and begins to feel a sense of belonging among the carnival folks. - Tensions arise between Irene and Vic regarding Hugo's presence and potential involvement in their act. ### The Plot Thickens - Irene and George plan to leave together, indicating a romantic affair and a desire to escape Vic's control. - Hugo becomes embroiled in a plot to steal Vic's magic wand, under Irene's manipulation, believing it will free her from being "the devil's" slave. ### The Climax - Hugo, convinced by Irene's deception, steals Vic's wand and inadvertently becomes part of a tragic outcome. - The illusion of the magic act and the real emotions and plans of the characters intertwine, leading to a confrontation with dire consequences. ### The Tragic Conclusion - Hugo's actions, driven by a misunderstanding of magic and manipulation, lead to a police investigation and his arrest. - The episode ends with a reflection on the events, leaving the audience with a cliffhanger and anticipation for the next episode's resolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who found Hugo and where?

Hugo was found unconscious outside by Milton and another character.

Why did Irene initially refuse to care for Hugo?

Irene was reluctant because she didn't want to play nurse to Hugo, whom she considered a burden.

How did Hugo end up in Toledo and in his current condition?

Hugo ran away from a home, met a man named Fred who exploited him, leading to Hugo sleeping under bridges and not eating for two days.

What is Vic's profession and how does Hugo react to it?

Vic is a magician, and Hugo is both afraid and fascinated, associating magic with devilish powers.

What is the nature of the relationship between Irene and George?

Irene and George are having a romantic affair and plan to leave together, away from Vic.

What does Hugo believe about Vic's wand and its powers?

Hugo is manipulated into believing that Vic's wand holds real magical power and that stealing it could free Irene from being Vic's "slave."

What leads to Hugo's arrest?

Hugo's involvement in a plot that results in a tragic outcome, based on a misunderstanding of magic and manipulation, leads to his arrest by the police.

How does Hugo's perception of magic and reality contribute to the episode's climax?

Hugo's lack of understanding between real magic and illusion, compounded by Irene's manipulation, drives him to actions that result in tragic consequences.

Alfred Hitchcock Presents season 7 episode 39

The Sorcerer's Apprentice