The Most Popular Episode of the Twilight Zone, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the episode you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 4, 2024 06:36
Picture this scenario: a group of friends is debating feverishly over which episode of The Twilight Zone stands as the champion of Rod Serling's iconic series. Each one has a favorite, passionately citing twist endings and philosophical depth as evidence of superiority. Compiling a ranked list based on popular opinion can help settle these debates, guiding new viewers and rekindling old discussions among longtime fans.
By voting for your preferred episodes, you contribute to a crowd-sourced evaluation, providing a snapshot of which stories have resonated the most with audiences over time. This ranked list isn't just a fun way for fans to engage with the series; it's also a tool for newcomers to identify which episodes are considered essential viewing. So cast your vote, see how your favorites stack up, and maybe discover why others have captivated the hearts of fellow Twilight Zone enthusiasts.
What Is the Most Popular Episode of the Twilight Zone?
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181votes
Time Enough at Last (Season 1, Episode 8)
Rod SerlingThis episode is often considered the most iconic and memorable of the series, thanks in large part to its tragic ending. The story follows a book-loving bank teller who finally has all the time in the world to read after a nuclear blast, only to have his glasses break.Time Enough at Last is the eighth episode of the first season of The Twilight Zone. It aired on November 20, 1959. The episode was created by Rod Serling and directed by John Brahm. It is one of the most popular episodes of the series.- Episode title: Time Enough at Last
- Season: 1
- Episode number: 8
- Air date: November 20, 1959
- Director: John Brahm
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231votes
To Serve Man (Season 3, Episode 24)
Rod SerlingThis episode is known for its twist ending, in which a race of aliens who come to Earth to help humanity turn out to have ulterior motives.In the episode 'To Serve Man', the Kanamits, a seemingly benevolent alien race, visit Earth on a mission of goodwill, promising to solve all of humanity's problems. The episode follows the experiences of a linguist, Michael Chambers, who becomes suspicious of the aliens' intentions. As people start boarding the Kanamits' spacecraft for trips to their home planet, Chambers discovers the true meaning of the title 'To Serve Man'.- Episode: 24
- Season: 3
- Original air date: March 2, 1962
- Genre: Science fiction, Horror
- Running time: 25 minutes
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310votesThis episode is a commentary on the dangers of paranoia and mob mentality, as a suburban neighborhood turns on itself when strange occurrences start happening.The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street is the 22nd episode of the first season of the iconic television series, The Twilight Zone. It was written by Rod Serling, the creator of the series, and aired on March 4, 1960. The episode explores themes of paranoia, fear, and the dark side of human nature.
- Episode Number: Season 1, Episode 22
- Original Air Date: March 4, 1960
- Genre: Science Fiction, Horror, Drama
- Running Time: 25 minutes
- Director: Ron Winston
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421votes
Eye of the Beholder (Season 2, Episode 6)
Rod SerlingThis episode is famous for its shocking twist ending, in which a woman undergoes a surgical procedure to look "normal," only to discover that she was already beautiful by the standards of her own society.Eye of the Beholder (Season 2, Episode 6) is a famous episode of The Twilight Zone created by Rod Serling. It first aired on November 11, 1960. The episode tells the story of a young woman named Janet Tyler who undergoes her eleventh and final attempt at a surgical procedure to look normal. The entire episode is shot from the perspective of the doctors and nurses, keeping Janet's face hidden until the end. Here are ten important specs about the episode:- Episode Title: Eye of the Beholder
- Season: 2
- Episode Number: 6
- Air Date: November 11, 1960
- Genre: Drama, Fantasy, Mystery, Sci-Fi, Thriller
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520votes
The Hitch-Hiker (Season 1, Episode 16)
Rod SerlingThis episode is a classic example of the "twist ending" format of The Twilight Zone, as a woman keeps encountering a mysterious hitchhiker on a cross-country drive.In 'The Hitch-Hiker', a young woman embarks on a cross-country road trip, but she keeps encountering a mysterious hitchhiker who seems to be following her every step of the way.- Episode number: Season 1, Episode 16
- Original air date: January 22, 1960
- Genre: Science Fiction, Fantasy, Thriller
- Running time: 25 minutes
- Starring: Inger Stevens
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611votesThis episode is notable for its suspenseful plot and William Shatner's performance as a man who sees a gremlin on the wing of his plane.Nightmare at 20,000 Feet is a fifth-season episode of the iconic television series, The Twilight Zone. It originally aired on October 11, 1963. The episode tells the story of Bob Wilson, a man returning home after a nervous breakdown. During his flight, he becomes convinced that there is a gremlin on the wing of the airplane, damaging the engine. However, when he tries to alert the flight crew, no one believes him. Bob becomes increasingly desperate as he tries to save everyone on board from the elusive creature.
- Season: 5
- Episode: 3
- Air date: October 11, 1963
- Writer: Richard Matheson
- Director: Richard Donner
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77votes
It's a Good Life (Season 3, Episode 8)
Rod SerlingThis episode is a dark and surreal tale about a boy with godlike powers who terrorizes his small town.In the episode 'It's a Good Life', a young boy named Anthony possesses god-like powers and holds a small town in a state of constant fear. He can read people's minds, create and destroy objects, and even manipulate reality at will. Everyone must think and act positively, praising everything Anthony does, or face his wrath.- Season: 3
- Episode: 8
- Title: It's a Good Life
- Original Network: CBS
- Genre: Science Fiction, Horror
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86votes
CBS Television · Public domainThe Obsolete Man (Season 2, Episode 29)
Rod SerlingThis episode is a political allegory about a librarian who is put on trial for being "obsolete" in a totalitarian society.In the episode 'The Obsolete Man', a totalitarian state has determined that a librarian, Romero Smith, is obsolete and must be executed. However, Smith challenges the state-appointed chancellor to a televised trial, where he unveils his ultimate weapon against tyranny.- Season: 2
- Episode: 29
- Original air date: June 2, 1961
- Genre: Science fiction
- Director: Elliott Silverstein
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93votesThis episode is a creepy tale about a doll that seems to have a life of its own, much to the terror of a little girl's stepfather.Living Doll is a famous episode from the fifth season of The Twilight Zone. It revolves around a dysfunctional family dealing with the terrifying presence of a malevolent talking doll named Talky Tina. As the doll begins to antagonize the family, horrifying events unfold.
- Season: 5
- Episode: 6
- Original air date: November 1, 1963
- Genre: Science fiction, Horror, Fantasy
- Running time: Approx. 25 minutes
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109votesWhile not an episode of the original series, this film adaptation of The Twilight Zone is often cited as a fan favorite, thanks to its all-star cast and faithful recreation of the show's eerie tone.
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Discussion
Ranking factors for popular episode
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Cultural ImpactDetermine if the episode had a lasting impact on the cultural landscape, with memorable quotes, imagery, or themes that are still being referenced and discussed in popular media.
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Awards and RecognitionConsider if the episode received any awards, nominations, or accolades, which can be an indicator of its quality and popularity.
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Relevance to the SeriesAnalyze how the episode fits into the overall narrative of The Twilight Zone and if it stands out as a particularly important or influential installment.
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Unique Themes and ConceptsThe Twilight Zone is known for its thought-provoking and imaginative stories, so consider if the episode brings something original and interesting to the table.
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Guest Stars and PerformancesThe show often featured notable guest stars and impressive performances, so take into account if the episode includes any particularly notable appearances or standout acting.
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Reception at the Time of ReleaseResearch the initial reception of the episode when it first aired to see if it captured the attention and imagination of viewers and critics.
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Influence on Future MediaConsider if the episode had an impact on the film, TV, or literature landscape, inspiring creators in other mediums down the line.
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Entertainment ValueA popular episode should be entertaining, thought-provoking, and engrossing to watch.
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RewatchabilityA truly great episode should be one that viewers can revisit time and time again, discovering new layers and nuances with each viewing.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular episode of The Twilight Zone. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or episode is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 2308 views
- 200 votes
- 10 ranked items
Movers & Shakers
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each episode once every 24 hours. The rank of each episode is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular episode of the twilight zone
The Twilight Zone is a classic American television series that first aired in 1959. Created by Rod Serling, the series is known for its unique blend of science fiction, horror, and suspense. Each episode features a different storyline, often with a twist ending that leaves viewers both intrigued and unsettled.
Over the years, The Twilight Zone has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless imitations and adaptations in various mediums. Despite its age, the series remains popular with audiences of all ages, thanks to its timeless themes and thought-provoking stories.
With so many episodes to choose from, it's hard to pick just one favorite. That's why StrawPoll has asked its users to vote on the most popular episode of The Twilight Zone. Will your favorite episode come out on top? Only time will tell!
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