User Reviews

Anthony Zerbe and Richard Carlson star in "The Torch"--a show about arson. Cannon is investigating a recent case of arson--one in which a woman is burnt to a crisp. To help him is a professional arson investigator and their trail heads to a man known as "the Doc" (Zerbe). This is great for Cannon's client, as the man is seen as the primary suspect (Carlson). However, in the process, Cannon doesn't realize that he's the next possible victim.

"The Torch" is another excellent episode of "Cannon"--a series I never watched when it was originally shown on TV, but which can be seen on DVD today. Like a typical episode, Cannon is a tough, brawling guy who loves fine food and drink--and manages to solve the crime by the end of the episode. And, in this one, he shows off his considerable talents by rescuing someone just moments before they, too, are incinerated. Overall, worth watching an interesting.

When a clothing manufacturer is accused of arson and murder, his daughter hires Cannon to find who actually did the deed and to exonerate her father. With a zippy pace and an interesting storyline this episode is very watchable. It's great to see how Cannon gets to the crux of things. Anthony Zerbe plays the Torch, a man who is an expert in starting fires and Richard Carlson as a suspect.

One of William Conrad's old colleagues at Warner Brothers/ABC , Michael O'Herlihy, directed this ingenious episode. Michael was also directing MANNIX, and a veteran of HAWAII FIVE O. He was one of the best. James Buchanan (NOT the president) wrote this great story, later behind CHARLIE'S ANGELS.

Larry Blyden, best known for game shows, plays Phil, a man with a little problem. He accidentally killed his wife. In steps Anthony Zerbe (a stand out as usual) as a master arsonist called "the Doc" to remedy the situation. More of a psychological tale (shades of HAWAII FIVE O) and its quite interesting to watch the mindset of both a murderer and an arsonist, especially as the walls come closing in on both of them. Also a clever cat and mouse game for Cannon. Listen to the dialogue and watch Cannon's expressions.

Smooth stuff. 10 Stars.

Richard Carlson, who appeared several times on the show, guest stars. He played both businessmen and sinister types on tv in his later years and should have been nominated for an Emmy. Sheilah Wells plays Anne, best known for her appearances on DR. KILDARE. Watch for tall and sinister Ron Feinberg as Ruby. Feinberg played some menacing characters for years on tv.

Bob Harks is back playing a bit as a gambler. Harks held the record for appearing in hundreds of tv shows for decades. An inspiration to many actors.

Watch the ending --as the house is about to EXPLODE! Tick, tick, tick... Obviously, director Michael O'Herilhy borrowed a bit from MANNIX.

Stupendous. EPISODE 22. SEASON 1 CBS/Paramount dvd box set No 2 of 2. 4 disc set per box. 2008 release.