Arthur Hiller directed quite a few episodes for Hitch, and at the time was also directing GUNSMOKE. Of course, he will always be remembered for LOVE STORY. Hiller had the magic touch with actors, and this is a prime example.
This, however, is not a love story. Joanna Moore and Steve Forrest play Judy and Steve, a young couple with a problem. Alfred Hitchcock had to have loved this one as it just snowballs and gives the viewer a heck of a ride.
It's all about a winning lottery ticket, the legendary Irish Sweepstakes, which back in the day was the original SUPER Lotto. It seems Judy's husband died rather suddenly and the winning ticket was accidentally buried with him! That's a long, long shot, but you have to give the writers credit for a macabre Hitch scenario. Although, there have been stories of everyday people being buried with expensive watches and jewelry and the like --but are they gonna' dig the guy up?
The answer is yes, although Steve (so well played by Steve Forrest), is not in favor, thinking its rather gruesome... or is it something else that may bury him? I agree with the last reviewer that this is perhaps one of the darkest roles for Forrest, who usually played good guys in his career, and he makes the most of this part with a wry smile, at that.
What will happen next? That's the fun of it all and this is a very clever story that will hold your attention, wondering how is it all gonna' end?
The trivia notes are correct, and may be the biggest dark comedy of all. Back in the 50s, taxes were high, especially on lottery winnings, so the money Judy and Steve would receive, and a hefty part of it, would go to the IRS. OMG. But why get into details? Just start digging and have fun!
From Season 3, remastered CBS dvd box set (2007).