Michael Morris Movies
A prolific writer/producer of radio and television, Emmy award winner Michael Morris made his mark in Hollywood with work on such enduring television classics as The Andy Griffith Show, Bewitched, and All in the Family. Born Misha Shtuchkoff to a pair of Russian actors, he immigrated with his family to the United States when he was five-years-old. Frequently acting alongside his father in both radio and film, Morris would move into a career as a radio writer in New York upon his return from World War II Army duties. In 1960, after penning such radio shows as Mr. and Mrs. North and Hollywood Story, Morris would move to Los Angeles and opt for a career in television. Quickly gaining notice for his sharp scripts for The Flying Nun and The Andy Griffith Show, Morris would also pen such features as the 1963 film For Love or Money and the following year's Wild and Wonderful. Later writing episodes of F-Troop, Morris would move into producing with the 1974 series Chico and the Man. Retiring from television in the 1980s, Morris became a playwright whose works often appeared on various Los Angeles stages. On June 20, 2003, Michael Morris died of Alzheimer's disease in Los Angeles. He was 85. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide- 1984
The Doctor (Peter Davison) accompanies Tegan (Janet Fielding) on a visit to Little Hodcombe, the home of her grandfather, historian Andrew Verney. They arrive just in time for a local historical society's reenactment of the English Civil War. The "festivities" unexpectedly awaken a malevolent telekinetic alien called the Malus, which has long slumbered in the crypt of the village church. Written by Eric Pringle, "The Awakening" inaugurated its two-episode run on January 19, 1984. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Peter Davison, Janet Fielding, (more)
- 1984
In the conclusion of the two-part story "The Awakening," the citizens of Little Holcombe seem to be taking their reenactment of the English Civil War a bit too seriously -- especially when Tegan (Janet Fielding) is chosen as a human sacrifice. Meanwhile, the Doctor (Peter Davison) tries to purge the community of the evil telekinetic influence of the Malus, with the assistance of a transplanted 17th century lad named Will Chandler (Keith Jayne). Other key players in the proceedings are local squire (and slave-of-the-Malus) Sir George Hutchinson (Dennis Lill) and Tegan's beleagured grandfather, historian Andrew Verney (Frederick Hall). Written by Eric Pringle, "The Awakening, Episode 2" originally aired on January 20, 1984. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Peter Davison, Janet Fielding, (more)
- 1975
Freddie Prinze (Chico Rodriguez) and Jack Albertson (Ed Brown) are still on hand as the title characters in the warm-hearted ethnic sitcom Chico and the Man as the series enters its second season. Likewise, Scatman Crothers is back in the supporting role of ebullient neighborhood garbage collector Louie Wilson. Missing from the scene this season are such first-series semiregulars as Bonnie Boland, Rodolfo Hoyos and Isaac Ruiz). The one newcomer to the cast is Ronnie Graham (an accomplished farceur and director, then best known as "Mr. Dirt" in a series of popular commercials), as Reverend Bemis, the new curate in the Mexican-American neighborhood where curmudgeonly Ed Brown owns a garage, with Chico as his best (and only) employee. Appearing in guest roles during the season's 24 episodes are impressionist Rich Little in the opener "Paint Job", comedian and future informercial personality Avery Schreiber in "Play Gypsy" and "Misfortune Teller", a post-Star Trek George Takei in "Mister Butterfly" and a pre-Laverne and Shirley Penny Marshall in "Chico and the Van", singer Tony Orlando in "The Big Brush-Off" and the ubiquitous Joey Bishop in "Too Many Crooks". The most unexpected of the guest performers is former silent screen star Carmel Myers in "Bird in a Gilded Cage"; the most prescient is Della Reese, soon to be a series regular in the role of landlady Della Rogers, but for the time being cast as an acerbic judge in "The Juror". Although Chico and the Man still had millions of faithful fans, the series suffered a considerable ratings drop-off during its second season, descending from 3rd to 25th place. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Jack Albertson, Freddie Prinze, (more)
- 1975
To pass the time, Archie takes a magazine test which ostensibly measures his life expectancy. Alas, he scores a miserable 64, meaning that, according to the test, he will die at the age of 57. This of course sends Archie into a tizzy; after all, he's already passed the "big five-o." In its original program listings, TV Guide felt the need to observe that "Archie and the Quiz" was taped before a live audience -- something that has been common knowledge since All in the Family debuted. This particular episode was written by Michael Morris, and first aired on February 15, 1975. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, (more)
- 1974
Assigned to write an essay on the person he most admires, Michael (Ralph Carter) chooses his mother, Florida (Esther Rolle), as his essay's subject. Though flattered, Florida insists that Michael's father, James (John Amos), is the more admirable person. Alas, James all but disqualifies himself from this honor when he reacts in a most distasteful manner to his ongoing inability to find a job. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1973
Donning a brunette wig, blonde-tressed Gloria is at first flattered and delighted when Mike is "turned on" by her new look. But her delight turns to dismay when she concludes that it is the wig, and not her, that so arouses Mike's libido. This episode poses a question previously unexplored in American television: Can it be possible for a husband to be unfaithful with his own wife? Written by Michael Ross and Bernie West, "Black Is the Color of My True Love's Wig" first aired on November 24, 1973. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Carroll O'Connor, Jean Stapleton, (more)
- 1972
Brian Keith plays a wealthy stockbroker who purchases dusty Nevada ghost town. Remembering his own humble roots, Keith sets up the town as a community where life's losers can congregate. Here these unfortunates are afforded a "second chance"-which also happens to be the name of the town. If this made-for-TV feature sounds like a pilot film, that's because it is. Filmed on location in Phoenix, Arizona, Second Chance first aired February 8, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1972
Will Geer guest stars as George Washington, who has been accidentally zapped into the 20th century by bumbling Esmerelda. Impressed at the progress made by the country which he fathered, Washington decides to exercise his right of free speech in a local park. As a result, he is arrested for creating a public disturbance and threatening a policeman, forcing Samantha to do some quick witchery. Thad Geer, son of Will Geer, appears as a hippie. The first episode of a two-part story, "George Washington Zapped Here" was written by Michael Morris and originally aired on February 19, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1972
In the second episode of a two-part story, Esmerelda again accidentally causes George Washington (Will Geer) to materialize in the Stephens living room -- and this time George has brought along his wife, Martha (Jane Connell). As Mrs. Washington drinks in the wonders of Samantha's modern kitchen, George insists upon defending himself in court from the public disturbance and assault charges he'd accrued in the previous week's episode. To top it off, Larry and Darrin lose an account thanks to Washington's inability to tell a lie. Written by Michael Morris, "Father of Our Country" first aired on February 26, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1972
Doting grandmother Endora transforms little Tabitha into a seven-year-old genius. Long-suffering Samantha and Darrin convince Tabitha's teacher, Mrs. Peabody (Maudie Prickett), and principal, Mr. Roland (Charles Lane), not to give the girl preferential treatment, but how will Sam handle the fact that Mrs. Peabody has seen Tabitha perform witchcraft in front of the classroom? Apparently, there is only one solution: Tell the whole truth, and reveal to the world that Sam, Tabitha, and Endora are all genuine witches! Written by Michael Morris, "School Daze, School Daze" originally aired on March 4, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1972
Darrin is perplexed when Samantha suddenly gains weight -- several tons, in fact -- while outwardly remaining her usual thin self. Dr. Bombay diagnoses the ailment as "Gravititis Inflammitis," then helpfully prescribes an antidote. As usual, the cure is worse than the disease; now Sam is so light of weight that she literally floats away. And also as usual, the entire situation serves to benefit the ad firm of McMann and Tate. Written by Michael Morris, "Samantha Is Earthbound" originally aired on January 15, 1972, the same day that Bewitched moved from its Wednesday-night timeslot to a Saturday berth opposite CBS' All in the Family. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1972
Worried that she's losing her powers, Samantha's lookalike cousin, Serena, decides to settle down to mortal-hood. So that she won't have to bother herself with such exigencies as finding honest work, Serena aims to wed Darrin's wealthiest client, Harrison Woolcott (Peter Lawford). Realizing that such a union would be disastrous, Sam tries to break up the romance, only to be beaten to the punch by one Contessa Piranha (Ellen Weston). Written by Michael Morris, "Serena's Richcraft" first aired on January 22, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1972
Smitten by Larry Tate, Samantha's lookalike cousin Serena slips Larry a pill which makes him progressively younger. Astonished at his rejuvenation, Larry tries to talk Darrin into marketing the pill, little realizing that the side effects would transform the nation's male population into children. Ted Foulkes and David Hayward play the younger versions of Larry Tate (David White). Written by Michael Morris, "Serena's Youth Pill" first aired on February 5, 1972. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1971
Up to her usual mischief, Endora transforms Darrin into a ten-year-old boy (Gene Andrusco). So as to avoid embarrassing questions, Samantha passes off little Darrin as his own nephew Marvin. While in his "reduced" state, Darrin gets into a stew-literally-with his new client, food manufacturer "Mother" Flanagan (David Huddleston). Written by Michael Morris, "Out of the Mouths of Babes" originally aired on March 25, 1971. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1971
In the sixth episode of a seven-part story arc, Samantha and Darrin arrive in Paris, only to face the wrath of Sam's father, Maurice. Incensed that the Stephenses did not pay him a visit in London, Maurice gets his revenge by sending Darrin to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Want to bet that this rash act will prove beneficial to Darrin's new client, European tour packager Henri Sagan (Maurice Marsac)? Written by Michael Morris, "Paris Witch's Style" first aired on October 20, 1971. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1971
In the fifth episode of a seven-part story arc, the Stephenses arrive in Rome, where Endora immediately makes her mark by bringing a statue of Venus to life. In her human state, the irresistible Venus (Francine York) causes trouble for Darrin by causing his client, Mr. Baldoni (Lou Krugman), to stray from his marital vows. There is nothing for Samantha to do but deflect Venus by "enlivening" a statue of Adonis. First telecast on October 13, 1971, "Bewitched, Bothered and Baldoni" was written by Michael Morris. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1971
Once again, Tabitha enters the magical world of her storybooks. This time, she takes the place of Hansel and Gretel (Eric Chase, Cindy Henderson), while they assume human form and pop up in the real world. Billie Hayes, the irrepressible Witchiepoo on H.R. Pufnstuf, essays a strikingly similar role in this episode. Written by Michael Morris, "Hansel and Gretel in Samanthaland" was originally slated for telecast during the holiday season, but aired instead on November 17, 1971. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
The Stephenses have a lot of 'splaining to do when Endora gives them a portrait of Samantha, painted in Mona Lisa fashion by Leonardo Da Vinci himself. To cover up Endora's witchcraft, Darrin takes credit for the painting, and as a result is commissioned to paint a portrait of Larry Tate's wife, Louise. Inevitably, he gets fired -- again! -- when his masterpiece emerges as a ridiculous caricature. Written by Michael Morris, "Mona Sammy" originally aired on April 2, 1970. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
In this sequel to the previous week's episode "To Go or Not to Go, That Is the Question," the Stephenses are still playing reluctant hosts to Hepzibah (Jane Connell), high priestess of all witches and warlocks. It is important to curry favor with Hepzibah, who holds the future of Darrin and Samantha's marriage in her hands. To forestall the high priestess' final decision, Sam arranges a match between Hepzibah and Darrin's dashing new client, Mr. Hitchcock (Cesar Romero). Written by Michael Morris, "Salem Here We Come" first aired on October 1, 1970, as the 200th episode of Bewitched. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
The seventh season of Bewitched began on September 24, 1970, with the first installment of an eight-part story arc. Samantha is ordered to attend the annual Witches Convention in Salem, MA, but without her mortal husband Darrin. A further complication arrives in the form of the Convention's high priestess Hepzibah (Jane Connell), who takes over the Stephens household --and shows no signs of leaving in the near future. "To Go or Not to Go, That Is the Question" was written by Michael Morris. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
Endora's latest spell transforms Darrin into a 73-year-old man. Thinking quickly when the Tates arrive, Samantha passes off Darrin as his own grandfather, Gordon. But there's even more trouble ahead when Larry Tate tries to match up "Gordon" with Louise's Aunt Millicent (Ruth McDevitt), a geriatric swinger. Sam solves matters in characteristic fashion by appealing to Endora's vanity. Written by Ed Jurist, "Samantha's Old Man" originally aired on December 3, 1970. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
This sixth episode of an eight-part story arc was largely filmed on-location in Salem, MA. Hopelessly in love with Samantha, a warlock named Waldo (Hal England) creates a duplicate Sam. Inevitably, the presence of two Mrs. Stephenses causes confusion for Larry Tate, while Darrin has to deal with being transformed into a crow. Veteran character actress Anne Seymour appears as Mirabelle. Written by Michael Morris, "Samantha's Bad Day in Salem" first aired on November 5, 1970. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Elizabeth Montgomery, Dick Sargent, (more)
- 1970
The nuns try to help a troublesome convent youngster named Armando (George Spell). The plan backfires when Armando turns into a pool shark, who cares about nothing but winning and isn't too particular how he wins. Sr. Bertrille comes up with the solution to the dilemma, but it takes her nearly the entire episode. Veteran character actor John Hoyt appears as Gomez. Written by Michael Morris, "Armando and the Pool Table" first aired on January 23, 1970. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1970
Elinor Donahue makes her third guest appearance as obstetrician Jennifer Ethrington (Elinor Donahue), the sister of Sr. Bertrille. Determining that Jennifer is working too hard, the nuns try to lighten her burden by hiding the fact that she's a doctor. Not surprisingly, a crisis results. Nancy Malone also appears as The Countess. Originally shown on January 7, 1970, "My Sister, the Doctor" was written by Michael Morris and Milt Rosen. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1969
Part One of the two-part Flying Nun episode "Great Casino Robbery" first aired on January 30, 1969. Alan Hale Jr. guest-stars as Sr. Bertrille's lovably larcenous Uncle Reggie, who goes to work at Carlos Ramirez' casino. Reggie's fast-and-loose relationship with honesty inadvertenly paves the way for a full-scale robbery committed by professional thief Faye (Ruta Lee)-a heist for which the nuns of San Tanco will be blamed. "Great Casino Robbery" was written by Michael Morris. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
