Das Millionen-Dollar-Ding

This movie is typical of the made for TV movies produced back in the 1970's. The film quality is OK and the acting is methodical in places. It is the first (and only, unfortunately) role for Freddie Prinze that allows us to see him outside of his more generally well know genre of comedy. His performance has a lot of unrealized potential as a dramatic actor. Prinze had commented after this movie was made that he was disappointed in the movie. The critics of the day didn't think much of it either, so I went into this movie not expecting much. But I was pleasantly surprised that the plot was not as predictable as one might have thought. I found myself on the edge of my seat wondering whether the criminals would get away with the heist. And there were a few surprise plot twists in the movie. The most disappointing part of the movie was the acting of the actresses playing Muff Kovack's gang. Even though this movie might not rate high, Prinze's performance will make this a must for collectors of his work, especially since there isn't much of it due to his untimely death.

Freddie Prinze really gave himself too much flack for this movie. Yes NBC should have given the rights to FOX Networks because at least through them it could have been picked up for theatrical release and not Made-For-Televison. Sadly the story was too short and there was not enough given in the rising action nor the climax, but it spawned lots of potential from the women and of course the Prince of Comedy himself, Freddie. Freddie delivers a serious and fustrated side of himself that could easily remove him from his Chico role. If only he was offered better network films than this one that felt like a pilot for a crime show. Fortunately when Prinze plays Muff he gives us a glimpse of a younger Tony Curtis as well as Al Pacino. The best part is that the character of Muff explores the effort of being young and urban with a whole lot of education and street smarts. When a Genius and Street kid mix it throws you off whirlwind question of how can a kid get into so much trouble. Being a boss and leading as the brain is hard to take seriously when it comes from a young latin man, however Freddie Prinze not only sells us this good but he makes an effort to show the audience that nothing can stop you from being a boss.

This was a great movie, the ladies offer the sex appeal. Freddie Prinze was great, as a bad boy who is always one step of the police. The plot is great, the other bad guys made good bad guys. The police were quasi incompetent. I can watch this movie over and over again. Because of Freddie Prinze. It is a shame we lost him so young. If he did not commit suicide, he would have been the next James Dean. I loved this movie, but also saddened by the loss of a great actor. Rent or buy their movie. It's worth it!!!