Great story for Kookie as he helps an old pal from Japan, memorably played by Mako. Mako comes to visit his uncle in Hollywood, who represents Japanese farmers. There's only one problem, the old man skipped town with fifty thousand dollars belonging to all the farmers. Or did he?
This is also a violent episode for Kookie (Jeff is more on the phone!) dodging fists and bullets. One of the best bad guy performances from Steve Brodie, as Anson, a homicidal maniac. Also Robert Wilke as Vern and keep an eye on popular character actor Joseph Mell as Nevill, another creepy guy. Mell usually played some fun characters, but not in this episode. These guys are lethal.
Extremely well directed by series regular George Waggner who really works this cast. The last scene shootout is classic, and what made the show such a hit. Super writing from two pros; John Butler, who wrote a ton of B westerns and adventure films and Louis Huston, who began his career writing for HIGHWAY PATROL. Do the math.
Always great to see Mako, who is missed. Mako in a few years would earn an Oscar nomination for his memorable role in THE SAND PEBBLES.
This one clicks. From SEASON 5 EPISODE 23 remastered. Thanks so much to ME TV for running these golden oldies on Sunday nights.