Rising Damp

The story unfolds in the series ‘Under the Influence’, where the new tenant Ambrose, as the central figure, who claims to be a mystic, quickly places the other lodgers under a strange spell in the programme. The episode stars Leonard Rossiter.

Under the Influence is a television programme presented as a single episode, forming part of a series of self‑contained stories. It offers a brief snapshot rather than a prolonged saga, making it suitable for viewers who prefer a quick, self‑contained experience. The plot centres on a newly arrived tenant called Ambrose, who openly claims to be a mystic. His assertion quickly becomes the story’s driving force, as he appears to place the other lodgers under an odd, almost hypnotic spell. As the spell tightens, the lodgers' normal routines are disrupted and an eerie tension spreads through the setting. Ambrose's mystic persona remains unexplained, leaving his power ambiguous yet undeniably influential. The strange spell casts a subtle yet pervasive influence over the household. Leonard Rossiter stars in the episode, providing the primary on‑screen presence. His performance anchors the narrative, interacting with the other characters as they gradually fall under Ambrose's sway. Rossiter's screen time dominates, ensuring his role remains the focal point throughout. The episode encapsulates a brief exploration of influence and control, wrapped in a compact narrative that resolves within its limited runtime. Overall, the story stays confined to its episode format, delivering a self‑contained account without extending beyond its singular instalment.