Another of the supreme fake-out episodes MI has to offer, and I do agree with the last reviewer, possibly the best episode of the first season.
Carroll O'Connor is extremely good as an extremist named Josef Varsh, more than likely with Russian ties (the writers for the series loved the Russian angle) whose mission is keep his far Eastern country an isolationist power, quite cleverly putting an American on trial to strengthen his case. What the over zealous head of the nation's secret police does not know is that the American in question is none other than Briggs! Fairly clever stuff.
There is some excellent acting to go around here, well directed by veteran Lewis Allen, long a movie director, but also into television, namely BONANZA. Laurence Heath wrote this fascinating story, and quite original, who later would write many episodes for DYNASTY. Heath's turning the tables on the dictator is one to watch, particularly how both Rollin (Martin Landau) and Briggs (Steven Hill) handle their respective roles, before pulling the rug out from under this goon.
Long before ALL IN THE FAMILY fame, O'Connor played some terrific character roles, and was a master of makeup. Prior to this role he appeared in THE WILD, WILD WEST and in the cult gangster film, WARNING SHOT, starring David Janssen.
Good support from David Opatoshu (as the deputy premier), enormously popular on tv at the time, also Gail Kobe as Lisa, who would gain more fame as the producer for several top tv soap operas. Series favorite Michael Strong plays Barskov, best as suspicious types, particularly foreign agents.
This one all adds up and will keep your attention, as it's an elaborate game of chess with real people.
No other way to describe this matchup.
SEASON 1 remastered dvd box set.
