A Game of Shadows

Quite a convoluted plot in this one. Some 70s detective show episodes are formulaic to the point that you can guess whodunit and why -- this one I couldn't guess, even when I was watching it for the second time in a little over a year. Some Mannix cliches -- he gets bonked on the head; there's a couple of shootouts -- but overall enjoyable due to the fast pace and all the twist and turns. I especially liked one scene where one character when confronted by their misdeeds fell apart like a wet newspaper -- not sure why I liked it, except it was unexpected and realistic (not everyone is a tough guy). Another plus is the many familiar faces -- Natalie Schafer from Gilligan's Island, Marta Kristen from Lost in Space, Kenneth Tobey from The Thing From Another World, Meg Foster, and a slew of "That Guy"s.

I agree, this is another episode you have to watch carefully --and you may still miss things. Leigh Vance wrote the story, also working on MISSION IMPOSSIBLE, later a producer for CANNON and HART TO HART. You have to give Vance credit for burning the midnight oil.

Joe's case concerns a man seen running away from a murder scene, but he's actually running for his life because he's caught up in some international intrigue and has assumed multiple identities. That's the confusing part, not only for the viewer, but for Mannix. Meg Foster plays the gal friend who hires Joe to prove his innocence, although she hasn't known him for a long time. Joe is also confronted with yet another bunch of people who aren't necessarily telling the truth. Sound familiar?

Paul Stevens plays Olsen, possibly the best actor for a story like this. Stevens was known for playing some very interesting characters, generally untrustworthy. Warner Anderson guest stars as Professor Thompson, remembered for LINEUP in the 50s and beautiful Marta Kristen (from LOST IN SPACE) appears as Aileen in a very good dramatic role.

Two top supporting actors; sci-fi star Kenneth Tobey plays a sheriff and Natalie Shafer does what she always does best, playing a classy lady called Bunny. Shafer next appeared in the popular 70s romantic comedy 40 CARATS (1973).

The production notes are correct. Joe nearly gets run down on North Central Avenue in Glendale, near Crawfords Supermarket (later sold to Ralphs markets) one of many legendary family food stores in southern California to disappear. If you're a Los Angeleno this will bring back many fond memories.

Gerald Mayer directed, known for the POLICE SURGEON tv series. Merry Christmas, as this was the final episode of 1972, broadcast Christmas Eve. SEASON 6 EPISODE 15 remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set.