Aqua Vita

"Aqua Vita" is the second segment of the twenty-sixth episode (the fourth episode of the second season (1986–87)) of the television series The Twilight Zone. It was written by Paul Chitlik and Jeremy Bertrand Finch, writers who went on to become story editors of the syndicated version of the hit show from 1988 to 1989.

Plot

Christine is a news anchor in her 40s. After a surprise birthday party given by her husband Marc, she begins to wonder about losing her job to someone younger. Once she hears a supposedly younger reporter named Shauna is actually past forty and incredibly young-looking, she learns about this new substance, a bottled water called "Aqua Vita" which has the ability to make one look younger with its use. She is finally convinced and orders it, and is amazed by the results.

Christine soon learns that, although the first batch is free, the following shipments cost more and more. She begins to spend massive amounts of money in order to keep up with the steadily rising prices and ensure delivery. An unfortunate side effect of Aqua Vita is that without constant use, withdrawal results in rapid aging. When this effect becomes apparent in Shauna, Marc confronts Christine and he tells her that no matter what, he loves her. They contemplate what to do next; he decides to drink the water himself, in order to join her in old age.

Closing narration

External links

• "Aqua Vita" at the Internet Movie Database
• "Aqua Vita" at TV.com