John Meredyth Lucas, who also directed some early series episodes, wrote this slam bang whodunit. The winning title should be in the category as "the most original". Ya think?
There's no question the story is a bit over the top, but it's one wild ride that begins immediately. Here, Joe clearly has a target on his back, this all related to an old case and an old foe. However, the catch is the prime suspect is now dead. Now what? Well, you keep on running, because there's more goons with guns. They are a resourceful bunch.
There's also the famous bomb in the car routine, a staple in the series, however if it were planted during the day, what are the chances someone would have seen it and stopped it? To everyone's defense, though, the production crew loved to blow things up. If you were a true MANNIX fan you loved it no matter what.
An exceptional cast on board, including a very early appearance for Loretta Switt, who made her tv debut the same year on HAWAII FIVE O. She also proves herself a very good dramatic actress and would return to the series. Character actor Bing Russell plays Larry, who was perhaps more famous for being the father of Kurt Russell.
Look for pre-QUINCY co-star Gary Walberg, who was in scores of cop shows, and, yes, that's Billy Benedict as a night watchman, one of the BOWERY BOYS. Casting directors loved him and he turned up a lot on tv for sentimentality.
Peggy goes through the motions here, worrying about Joe's next fateful move. Malcolm (Ward Wood) has a small role, which is curious as he's supposed to be the big cop on the beat, but sometimes got shoved to the side?
In the Hollywood tour department, there's a glimpse of the famous Hollywood Knickerbocker Hotel, home for many actors through the years, including Sinatra and Elvis.
Can you figure this one out? Keep the coffee and cookies around.
SEASON 3 EPISODE 20 remastered CBS dvd box set.