Memorable episode written by Robert Heverly, senior writer for the FBI series. Considering he worked on actual goverment cases, this may have been loosely based on a real life incident, a story that was originally outlined for the latter series.
One incredible tale, all about a missing girl who is now very much married to a hitman. Gets even more complicated. The hitman is Clay ( played by Peter Strauss) who decides to quit the BUSINESS and begin a new
life with his bride. On the other side sits his brother, Lester ( Geoffrey Deuel), who believes it's a terrible mistake, urging him to reconsider. In the meanwhile, Barnaby is searching for Clay's wife, hired by her mother, which snowballs because Lester believes he's after his brother.
The characters are excellently portrayed here, particularly Strauss, who gives a convincing performance as a trained killer. I agree with the last reviewer; the relationship between Clay and Lester is strange, with a deep psychological slant. Hero worship of a serial killer. These guys are both nuts. Geoffrey Deuel, who resembled his late brother, Peter, compliments Strauss. Norman Alden plays a slickster, the perfect addition.
Buddy Ebsen's daughter, Bonnie, has a small role as Cheryl (at the gas station), popping up from time to time in the series, and in some good bit parts.
For all us travel fans, partly filmed at the picturesque Hollywood Reservoir, built very close to the iconic Hollywood sign. It's been open since the 1920s and the walk around the reservoir never changes, a mere 3.3 miles, IF you are up to it.
Check out the wild shooting scene where Barnaby (his stunt double) dives and rolls down an embankment. Great direction by Seymour Robbie who really gave that scene a crazy slant.
Final episode of 1974. SEASON 3 EPISODE 13, remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set.
