The Lineman (The Twilight Zone)
"The Lineman", a two-part episode, is the eleventh and twelfth episode of the science fiction television series 2002 revival of The Twilight Zone. The episode aired October 23, 2002 on UPN.
Opening Narration
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Tyler Andrew Ward, a telephone lineman and charter member in the fraternity of lonely dreamers. Tyler is about to test what he wishes for to the breaking point and beyond. You might say what you're about to see is impossible. Probably in most places, but not here in the Twilight Zone. |
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Plot
Telephone lineman Tyler Ward is struck by lightning while inspecting a downed powerline. After he is resuscitated, he begins hearing voices in his head. As they intensify, Tyler discovers he has the power to hear thoughts as a result of the lightning strike. He decides to use this gift for money. First, he begins using it to win games of poker and then begins using it to manipulate stocks to his favor. He also begins a relationship with his supervisor and long-time crush Shannon. However, as his powers grow, Tyler begins heavily drinking alcohol to calm the voices, which eventually begins impairing his judgement.
After Tyler uses his power to cause the bankruptcy of a major corporation, Shannon suggests using his powers for more productive means, like using it to determine the truth in courts or to reach people in comas. However, he rejects her suggestion and asks her to marry him, causing her to leave him and upon seeing Shannon kiss his best friend Bud, Tyler goes berserk. He uses his powers to mentally harm both Bud and Shannon, then goes to a church to beg for forgiveness and is struck by lightning again. At this point, he wakes up in the same hospital bed at the beginning of the episode, however he still has his powers at maximum intensity.
Closing Narration
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Be careful what you wish for. They say the drives of the human primate are to breathe, eat, find shelter and mate. But what part of the psyche is it that never learns when it's had enough? Insurance companies say lightning strikes are acts of God. Hey, maybe he or she has nothing to do with it. Maybe they are just doorways into the Twilight Zone. |
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External links