User Reviews

One of the most prolific character actors of the 1960s - and one of my favorites, John McGiver, graces this episode along with one of the most underrated pieces of eye candy ever, Michelle Carey. (Her little-girl, dumb-bunny voice grates upon one's ears, though. Beware.) Sam Jaffe makes another appearance as Soapy Saunders, a more likable rogue the likes of whom you'll never see (seen two episodes previously, in The Great Shell Game).

The boys are put in a bind when a crooked banker kills his manager for discovering his embezzlement, then feigns innocence by putting the crime on Heyes and Curry. Understandably, they are not happy about this turn of events and cook up a plan to clear their names. He's been being a sugar daddy to Miss Jamison (Carey) and can't resist a sure thing when the boys provide him with one.

Let's just say, Mr. Binford (McGiver) makes this episode entertaining!

Having watched this show back in the day when it premiered, ALIAS SMITH AND JONES was an original black comedy western. Nothing like it before, and nothing like it since, and with a contemporary slant, even though it was set in the old west. The dialogue was tops. The episode A FISTFUL OF DIAMONDS obviously a gag title, borrowed from the classic western A FISTFUL OF DOLLARS. Don't ya love it.

This story is classic stuff, and what made the series a camp favorite. One of the best character actors of all, John McGiver (Binford), plays a slippery banker slash investor who wants into Heyes and Curry's new found diamond mine. Really?? McGiver was a staple in so many classic movies and tv shows, and actually began his career as a drama teacher. Imagine being in his class? What a trip!

There's also a little problem here in the negotiations for the guys (as usual) -- robbery and how about a murder? Best line department. Heyes says... "We don't rob banks anymore!" They have a reputation to protect! Also look for Michele Carey (as Betsy), who gained fame a few years earlier as one of Elvis' gal pals in LIVE A LITTLE, LOVE A LITTLE (1968). Veteran Sam Jaffe returns as bearded Soapy Saunders --who gets a bag of shells???

A well written script, very witty, and with some solid one liners and the usual twists tossed into the mix. Filmed at the legendary Universal City western backlot, a staple in many movies and tv shows.

Recommened and 10 stars to boot. SEASON 1 EPISODE 8 dvd box set.