Video Theater – The Great Detectives of Old Time Radio

In this tense and tightly constructed episode of Dragnet, Sergeant Joe Friday (Jack Webb) and his partner, Ed Jacobs (Barney Phillips), are called to investigate a shocking death in a modest Los Angeles apartment. A woman has been found dead from a gunshot wound, and her husband insists it was suicide. But as the detectives begin to piece together the evidence—an empty cartridge, a dusting of flour, and the peculiar position of a body—questions begin to multiply faster than answers. What begins as a routine inquiry quickly deepens into a web of contradictions. The neighbors have stories to tell, the evidence tells another, and instinct leads Friday and Jacobs down a path that challenges their confidence in what seems obvious. This episode captures Dragnet at its most methodical—slowly building tension through measured dialogue, careful observation, and an unflinching portrayal of police work as both science and human judgment. It's a story not only about crime but about certainty—and how easily even the most seasoned detectives can be deceived by what they think they know. Originally aired on June 6, 1952, "The Big Casing" was adapted from an earlier radio broadcast. It stands as one of the series' most thought-provoking cases, showcasing the emergence of forensic reasoning as an essential part of modern investigation.

In this episode of Public Domain Video Theater, host Adam Graham is joined by special guest Tom Fox, founder of the ⁠Compliance Podcast Network⁠ and host of ⁠Adventures in Compliance⁠— a show where Fox explores each Sherlock Holmes story through the lens of ethics and compliance. Together, they delve into one of Ronald Howard's early television portrayals of the great detective.   Episode Overview (No Spoilers) "The Mother Hubbard Case" begins as a seemingly routine London mystery — a missing fiancé, a concerned family, and a cryptic note about a lost child. But under Holmes's keen observation, this ordinary disappearance unfurls into something far more sinister. As Holmes and Watson investigate, they uncover a chilling pattern of vanishing men, a trail that winds through deserted houses and shadowed motives. What begins as a simple missing-person case evolves into a tense unraveling of compassion twisted by desperation   Original Air Date: December 20, 1954

Joe Friday and Ed Jacobs have evidence that a local jewelry salesman is behind the robbery of another salesman. They present the vidence in hopes of getting a confession. Season 1, Episode 12 Original Air Date: May 22, 1952 Based on a radio script from February 14, 1952

A wealthy family's household becomes the scene of intrigue when a series of shocking crimes threatens its members. Suspicion falls heavily within the walls of their imposing home, and the air grows tense as Philo Vance works to uncover the truth. Mystery, secrets, and a shadow of danger hang over each clue in this chilling early talkie. Originally released in U.S. theaters on August 11, 1929.   The film stars William Powell, in one of his earliest detective roles, alongside Jean Arthur and Eugene Pallette. The ensemble also features Florence Eldridge, Ullrich Haupt, E. H. Calvert, Gertrude Norman, and Lowell Drew in key roles that bring depth to the unfolding drama. Together, the cast weaves a suspenseful tale that blends family tension with classic mystery atmosphere.

A singer who threatens the happiness of the son of one of Philo Vance's (William Powell) oldest friends is murdered and Vance is called in to investigate. Features Jean Arthur, and Eugene Pallette. Original Release Date: February 16, 1929

A baby photographer (Bob Hope) impersonates a travelling private and is hired to find a beautiful woman (Dorothy Lamour) to find a missing older man. Also features Peter Lorre and Lon Chaney, Jr.

With rising international tensions, Mr. Moto (Peter Lorre) arrives in Egypt and battles a dangerous gang led by a sinister ventriloquist (Ricardo Cortez)  Original Release Date: January 20, 1939

Joe Friday and Ed Jacobs investigate the brutal murder of a woman. Season 1, Episode 11 Original Air Date: May 8, 1952

In this episode of Public Domain Video Theater, host Adam Graham presents an intriguing episode of Mr. And Mrs. North titled "The Placid Affair," originally aired on April 27, 1954 as the 14th episode of the Second Season. Join us as we unravel a tale of crime, deception, and the lengths one will go to for love and money. With stellar performances by Barbara Britton and Richard Denning, this episode showcases the complexities of human relationships against a backdrop of criminal intrigue. Don't miss this captivating journey into the world of vintage detective stories!

Follow the tense investigation led by Joe Friday and his partner Ed Jacobs as they unravel the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Paul Davis and confront the man (Lee Marvin) they suspect of killing him. Season 1, Episode 5 Original Air Date: February 14, 1952

On board a train returning to New York from Miami, the Norths see a woman they met in Miami on a train handcuffs, setting the stage for murder. Original Air Date: March 30, 1954  Season 2, Episode 10

Sergeants Joe Friday and Ed Jacobs search for a baby kidnapped from a hospital. Season 1, Episode 4 Original Air Date: January 31, 1952 Based on a Radio Script: from November 9, 1950

As the Norths find themselves embroiled in a weekend getaway turned murder mystery, tensions rise when a guest is poisoned and secrets unravel. Original Air Date: January 2, 1953 Season 1, Episode 14

Join us as we follow Sergeants Joe Friday and Ben Romero on a complex case involving a robbery at All Saints Hospital's pharmacy, where $10,000 worth of narcotics goes missing. With a wounded intern and a trail of clues leading to the dark underbelly of drug distribution, the detectives race against time to catch the culprit before the stolen drugs can be sold on the streets. Original Air Date: January 3, 1952   Season 1, Episode 2   Referenced: Radio Version of The Big Actor

The Norths are getting to celebrate their anniversary when a sinister bride doll is delivered and they find themselves in another murder.    Original Air Date: October 10, 1952 Season 1, Episode 2

Step back in time with us as we revisit the very first TV episode of Dragnet, "The Human Bomb." This episode, based on a radio script from 1949, takes you into the heart of Los Angeles, where Detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partner, Ben Romero (Barton Yarborough), face a tense, 26-minute race against time to prevent a disaster.    Original AIr Date: December 14, 1951 based on a radio play from July 21, 1949 Season 1, Episode 1

The thrilling conclusion to the Bulldog Drummond series is here! Join us as we dive into a world of action, comedy, and romance. In this final installment, Bulldog Drummond navigates a bank robbery and a mad painter, while trying to ensure his long-awaited wedding in romantic happens France. With unexpected twists and comedic elements, this episode promises a satisfying end to the saga.   Original Release July 12, 1939   Starring John Howard, as Bulldog Drummond, Heather Angel as Phyllis Clavering

A promoter promises to buy a cargo of defective silk stockings from a businessman through a pyramid scheme. Original Air Date: December 12, 1952 Season 3, Episode 13

Bulldog Drummond (John Howard) is on the verge of marrying Phyllis Clavering (Heather Angel), but a thrilling mystery involving hidden treasures and secret passages threatens to derail their plans. Join us as we explore this captivating story filled with suspense, humor, and unexpected twists. Will Drummond and Phyllis finally tie the knot?   Original Release Date: April 14, 1939

A fatherless boy (Billie Gray) secretly joins a gang of juveniles passing forged checks. Season 3, Episode 1   Original Air Date: September 4, 1952