10 Stars. All the way.
This episode is the reason why so many actors wanted to be on this show. Everybody had fun.
One of the most popular tv writers at the time, Larry Brody, wrote the story and he rolled with it. Just watch...
A classic exercise in Murphys Law, with Frank Cannon on the go, like a daily routine with all types of quirky road blocks, including a Great Dane? And someone trying to drop a flower pot on his head! A lot of dark comedy at play here, again thanks to Larry Brody. It's a shame he didn't do another episode.
Frank helps a judge (none other than Simon Scott) whose daughter has been kidnapped, and very cleverly --to get a baddie off the hook. The story is familiar, but a fast ride, also shaped like a MOD SQUAD story with a young cast. A good mix and a smart move to maintain high ratings.
Simon Scott was good friends with Bill Conrad, working with him on several Warner Brothers/ABC tv shows for years when he was a director. Conrad spent 15 years at WB, not too long before his good friend Jack Warner sold the studio in 1969.
Simon Scott, it would seem, was born to play either judges, businessmen or generals. Prior to this episode he had a recurring role as the chief on MOD SQUAD, also frequently on the FBI and later TRAPPER JOHN.
Solid directing by one of the best, Robert Douglas, originally a British actor who played villains, opposite such greats as Errol Flynn and Robert Taylor. He had a fabulous career. He was very good at getting the best out of his actors, and if you watch carefully, everyone is enjoying their roles, they are really into what they are doing. Even the Great Dane is havin' a good ole time.
Solid supporting cast, including Keith Andes, who played villains as he got older, although he played scores of tv heroes. Also Ray Danton (exceptional as a slickster or conman). Ray also turned to directing in the early 70s and was handling many horror films.
By the way, filmed on Lankershim Blvd. In North Hollywood, near Colfax Avenue, and you can see the famous Bekins Van Lines building, perhaps the oldest building in the area and in so many films. The place has recently been restored and looks sharp.
Another pizza favorite. Thanksgiving episode 1973. SEASON 3 EPISODE 12 remastered CBS color dvd box set. 2012.