Barnaby Jones (TV Series) The Killing Point (1980) User Reviews

Barnaby and the sleazy private dick...a nice change of pace.

[planktonrules · 8/10 · 7 August 2021]

When the story begins, a sleazy private detective, Wally (Geoffrey Lewis) approaches Barnaby for help on a case. Now considering Wally's reputation and past actions, Barnaby is concerned Wally might be trying to take advantage of him. But against his better judgment he joins forces with Wally...only to have it bite him in the butt by the end of the show.

Considering how repetitive the plots were in many of the later "Barnaby Jones" episodes, "The Killing Point" is a wonderful change of pace. It's NOT about some friend or family member of Jedediah, Betty nor Barnaby and Lewis is quite funny in this role. In many ways, his Wally is much like Angel on "The Rockford Files". Well worth your time.

BARNABY AND THE FLIM FLAM MAN.

[tcchelsey · 10/10 · 23 May 2024]

Yes, having seen this episode when it premiered, I agree with the last reviewer, actor Geoffrey Lewis' character was comparable to Angel on the ROCKFORD FILES. In fact, this was a missed opportunity. Lewis, who could play some unpredictable, offbeat roles, would have made a super addition to the series.

Lewis plays Wally Gannus, a not too honest detective who needs Barnaby's help in the case of a missing woman. The question -- is it legit this time, or does he need a fall guy? Definitely shades of Angel, who drove Jim Rockford absolutely nuts. Barnaby naturally is suspicious, but takes a chance considering someone is in danger. Was it the right move?

Watch this roller coaster ride, well written by Robert W. Lenski, who also wrote several top episodes for MANNIX and CANNON. He is best known for writing what is considered one of, if not the best tv mystery of the 70s, WHO IS THE BLACK DAHLIA?

If you're a Clint Eastwood fan, you'll reconized Geoffrey Lewis, who appeared in several of his films in key roles. Pretty Randi Oakes guest stars as Ursula, who at the time was co-starring on CHIPS. Oakes is married to Gregory Harrison. Popular actor Joshua Bryant also guest stars (as Alex), who appeared in four episodes.

As the series was winding down, this is quite a story and quite a case for Barnaby, definitey not what you would expect. 10 stars for originality.

SEASON 8 EPISODE 14 remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Released 2018.