Season 2 Episode 11: The Night of the MeekThe Night of the Meek On Christmas Eve, down-on-his-luck alcoholic Henry Corwin is fired from his job as a department store Santa Claus after showing up intoxicated. Devastated that he lacks the power to help the impoverished families and children of his neighborhood, Corwin stumbles into a dark alley where he finds a magical burlap sack. To his amazement, the bag produces whatever gift a person desires most—from toys for local children to a rare bottle of 1903 cherry brandy for his former manager. After giving away all the gifts, Corwin wishes for only one thing: to be able to spread joy this way every year. His wish is granted when an elf in a reindeer-drawn sleigh appears to welcome him as the real Santa Claus. Key Details Air Date: December 23, 1960Writer: Rod SerlingDirector: Jack SmightStarring: Art Carney (as Henry Corwin), John Fiedler (as Mr. Dundee), Burt Mustin (as Burt)Themes & Production Notes A Rarity in the Series: Unlike the typical dark, ironic, or suspenseful twists of The Twilight Zone, this episode stands out as one of the series' most warmhearted, optimistic, and compassionate installments.Shot on Videotape: "The Night of the Meek" was one of six episodes in Season 2 produced on videotape rather than 35mm film as a cost-cutting experiment by CBS, giving it a distinct live-television or theatrical play aesthetic.