cabeattie

Consider this a bit of fluff, a skit in a comedy program. One bored couple anticipates a visit from another. To each couple, the other seems to be having more Public Displays of Affection; "the grass is greener." On a lark, they set aside their card game for a "new" game: trading partners and having fun. Nothing more than arms around waists and sweet talk, but each couple sets out to convince the other couple that their new coupling is having more PDA. Interesting for the flapper outfits and 'dos. In the end, they're back where they started, not having learned a thing from the experiment.

In this tale, a small laundry -- Purple Checker Club Cleaning & Dyeing, run by Julius Trent & his young partner -- gets leaned on by gangsters hunting for do-re-mi. The Mob tries to put the lean on honest business men by threatening to destroy customers' clothing if the washmen don't cough up "protection" cash by the deadline. The younger partner shows himself industrious in the love department, taking advantage of his customer connection to find the woman of his dreams. Capraesque ending. Even the meek can be strong. A crime story with heart.

Interesting tale of naive hotel security guard "Jake," duped by femme fatale jewel thief. He becomes prime suspect in crime, sets out to find her himself.

He's studying to join the force, but here he gets a real education. Life lessons learned the hard way.

All the elements are there, but "good enough for TV" aim doesn't allow piece to shine.

First time out for director Wilson. Bookmark him for future works.

Experienced writer Greenblatt may hyphenate himself toward producing, leaning toward efficacious journey. "Too many producers spoil the pot."

Credit may go to young Wennekers for depth story provides. "Still waters run deep."

Peters and Ori traditionally lean toward roles of a criminal ilk. This show doesn't give them room they deserve to break out of small screen.

Excellent cast: Young as "the lady" -- Perlman as jealous boss. (He seems here a cross between greying Tony Roberts and racetrack cigar chomper, but creates interest.)

John Saxon as Detective Murphy, "been there, done that" gumshoe who kicks down door without breaking sweat. AWOL much of second half.

Albert lost in too-small role.

Portrayal of "everyman" guard Jake Franklin not always believable. Too naive for someone pursuing career in justice. Gets honor points for passing on payola, though.

Good use of vintage G-series as getaway vehicle.

London's music works, but could have been mixed judiciously for better appreciation. Too much dialogue looping.

May have done better with feature-size crew and noir motifs. Start voiceover earlier, use flashbacks, multiple points-of-view.

Well done, though audience can handle a deeper black.

AKA "Seduced by a Thief."