I agree with the opinion of IMDB reviewer "telegonus", who feels that this episode could stand on its own WITHOUT Tod and Linc---the story of two good ol' boys on their way to break up a wedding. The two characters are very well written and portrayed, and the SUPERB performance by Rip Torn--quirky, intense, unpredictable and yet appealing---is undoubtedly the highlight of this show. Albert is also fairly restrained, which helps maintain dramatic credibility.
Of course, Linc Case's expertise in martial arts could have EASILY-- at any point in the course of their journey-- disarmed and subdued big Albert, but he chose not to. Was this simply a device of the author to guarantee that the action would continue to its conclusion---or actually a decision of Linc's---as he seems to have developed a certain sympathy for Rip and his rather poignant plight (complete with the title folk song)? If so, Linc wasn't helping himself at all by serving as an accessory to murder and robbery.
ANOTHER STANDOUT (***Spoiler***)- Albert Salmi's death scene was as realistic and convincing as any I can recall seeing; it avoids the typical hambone gyrations favored by most actors and directors. It looks like he was REALLY blown away.... took a few seconds to realize it...pathetically called out his cousins's name-- and expired. You can't help feel sorry for him.
ALSO-- I guess I've been REALLY slow at picking up on this--- but our heroes' journeys on Rt 66 seem to continually lead them into cities and towns where everyone drives CHEVYS. Wow. Great viewing for us old-car fans. I guess that's what's called "PRODUCT PLACEMENT". LR
Of course, Linc Case's expertise in martial arts could have EASILY-- at any point in the course of their journey-- disarmed and subdued big Albert, but he chose not to. Was this simply a device of the author to guarantee that the action would continue to its conclusion---or actually a decision of Linc's---as he seems to have developed a certain sympathy for Rip and his rather poignant plight (complete with the title folk song)? If so, Linc wasn't helping himself at all by serving as an accessory to murder and robbery.
ANOTHER STANDOUT (***Spoiler***)- Albert Salmi's death scene was as realistic and convincing as any I can recall seeing; it avoids the typical hambone gyrations favored by most actors and directors. It looks like he was REALLY blown away.... took a few seconds to realize it...pathetically called out his cousins's name-- and expired. You can't help feel sorry for him.
ALSO-- I guess I've been REALLY slow at picking up on this--- but our heroes' journeys on Rt 66 seem to continually lead them into cities and towns where everyone drives CHEVYS. Wow. Great viewing for us old-car fans. I guess that's what's called "PRODUCT PLACEMENT". LR