LaRue (a fine Kiel Martin) and Washington (sturdy Taureen Blacque) investigate two policemen suspected of selling stolen goods. Furillo (Daniel J. Travanti, splendid as usual) blackmails Chief Daniels (a perfectly slimy Jon Cypher) to get Goldblume (stand-out work from Joe Spano) reinstated. Renko (a very engaging Charles Haid) gets call girl Cheryl (a personable portrayal by the fetching Francine Lembi) as a birthday present from Hill (the excellent Michael Warren) and Coffey (likable Ed Marinaro). Gennaro (nicely played by Leo Rossi) accompanies Belker (essayed with trademark snarly aplomb by Bruce Weitz) on an undercover drug bust. This show makes for a spot-on showcase for Renko, who gets some funny lines and a few strong dramatic scenes in which we learn more about his moral character (he takes offense when he finds out Cheryl is basically a prostitute). The subplot about the dirty cops packs a potent punch while there are real sparks to be relished when Furillo uses hardball politics against Daniels. Hunter (James Sikking in sterling form) has a poignant speech in which he reveals regret for not having a family as well as talks about being a Vietnam veteran. Lori Lethin contributes a touching turn as underage hooker Diane while Kathleen Lloyd shines as compassionate nurse Linda Wulfawitz. And the storyline about Gennaro comes to a startling downbeat conclusion when his foolhardy zeal gets the fatal best of him.
Review of Rain of Terror
