BBC radio did their usual outstanding job in producing this story. However, I feel they made a mistake in one respect. In order to flesh out the story, they gave some insight into the character of the murdered Victor Savage. They chose to portray him as such a completely unlikable, uncouth scoundrel that it makes us sympathize with Culverton Smith for murdering him, and thus makes Smith appear like less of a villian, undermining the story's impact.

And quite an impact it is, too - I can still recall my very real relief on turning the page and realizing Holmes was just faking.
But, man, does poor Watson ever take a beating in this one! Again! Y'know, sometimes i really do wonder why he sticks around Baker Street. (Interestingly, this element seems to have been toned down some in the Granada series.)
Meanwhile, check out this story in the Annotated Sherlock Holmes for some scarily effective illustrations.