Tom Selleck did a heck of a job coming up with the story, and Jackie Cooper's direction was inspired.
I saw this episode when it first aired, and I had the foresight to tape it. I'm certain that I watched this episode more than any other Magnum, P. I. episode. I was especially hooked by John Denver's "Looking For Space." I would even replay the sections of the episode just to hear the song. I had no idea what the title was, so it took me a number of years before I was able to track it down. Of course, it's also my favorite John Denver song as well.
I didn't know that Magnum, P. I. has been renewed for an eighth season when I saw this episode. It was virtually unheard of for the main character of a TV series--especially a hit series--to be killed off. However, with Selleck's beautiful script, by the time the episode ended, I strangely didn't find it that upsetting or even disturbing. Magnum was at peace, and so was I.
However, given how the series finale transpired, I was happy that they brought him back. My favorite story arc of the series has always been the handful of episodes that included Michelle and eventually, Lily. Season 8's "Unfinished Business" was heartbreaking to say the least!
Still, I enjoyed seeing Mac again and having him "guide" Magnum around in his spirit form trying to "get through" to someone. I found it ironic that Michelle came to Hawaii to tell Magnum that she was getting married again. It's even more ironic that Durant is a virtual look-alike of Magnum himself, which causes the viewer to wonder about Michelle's choice and why she chose him.
The sweetest and most tender moment was resevered for end, when it becomes apparent that Lily does, indeed, see Magnum just before he walks away. It's especially poignant that Magnum's last wish (for Lily to see him) would come true.
I've seen this episode dozens of times and yet I never get tired of it. It's light, and we also get a chance to see the things that Magnum has done for his friends. This is the most beautiful and tender episode of the series.
I saw this episode when it first aired, and I had the foresight to tape it. I'm certain that I watched this episode more than any other Magnum, P. I. episode. I was especially hooked by John Denver's "Looking For Space." I would even replay the sections of the episode just to hear the song. I had no idea what the title was, so it took me a number of years before I was able to track it down. Of course, it's also my favorite John Denver song as well.
I didn't know that Magnum, P. I. has been renewed for an eighth season when I saw this episode. It was virtually unheard of for the main character of a TV series--especially a hit series--to be killed off. However, with Selleck's beautiful script, by the time the episode ended, I strangely didn't find it that upsetting or even disturbing. Magnum was at peace, and so was I.
However, given how the series finale transpired, I was happy that they brought him back. My favorite story arc of the series has always been the handful of episodes that included Michelle and eventually, Lily. Season 8's "Unfinished Business" was heartbreaking to say the least!
Still, I enjoyed seeing Mac again and having him "guide" Magnum around in his spirit form trying to "get through" to someone. I found it ironic that Michelle came to Hawaii to tell Magnum that she was getting married again. It's even more ironic that Durant is a virtual look-alike of Magnum himself, which causes the viewer to wonder about Michelle's choice and why she chose him.
The sweetest and most tender moment was resevered for end, when it becomes apparent that Lily does, indeed, see Magnum just before he walks away. It's especially poignant that Magnum's last wish (for Lily to see him) would come true.
I've seen this episode dozens of times and yet I never get tired of it. It's light, and we also get a chance to see the things that Magnum has done for his friends. This is the most beautiful and tender episode of the series.