Barnaby Jones: The Platinum Connection (1974)
Season 2, Episode 16
10/10
HOW TO SUCCEED AT BUSINESS: STEAL!
9 November 2023
This reminded me of a COLUMBO episode, and for good reason. The series was running against that same show on Sunday nights. They had to be extra creative, and this story hits the mark.

Gary Lockwood returns, this time playing Mitch, who is very interesting to watch. Mitch owns a jewlery store who decides it may be more profitable to rob himself. By any means, not an original story, but watching Mitch execute his daring master plan will keep your attention. Lockwood actually began his career as a stuntman, no surprise he played villains who made a quick getaway.

What always amazed me about these tv criminals was the fact most lived a Hollywood life; a beautiful home, expensive cars, some lovely lady friends and still they wanted more!

Penny Fuller, great in dramatic roles, plays Mary, and about as crafty at Mitch. These two make a fine upstanding(?) couple, the only difference is which one is the first to make Barnaby suspicious.

Look for Val Avery (as Andy), popular character actor in a wide range of roles. Likewise, Milton Selzer who plays Benson and Bob Hastings has a bit as a bartender, the same type role he played on ALL IN THE FAMILY. Bob's career in tv went back to the early years, appearing on CAPTAIN VIDEO.

In the spot the location segment. The jewlery store is located at 7051 Willoughby Avenue, near Santa Monica Boulevard. Today that location is one of hundreds of coffee shops in Hollywood with a long history.

Best line department: Barnaby says to Mary; "Better you do some cell time than get murdered!" Can't argue with that line.

Great writing by Calven Clements, later producer and writer for DALLAS. He also co-produced MATT HOUSTON, which Buddy Ebsen would so-star in the 80s as Uncle Roy.

SEASON 2 EPISODE 16 remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set.
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