For years Robert Wagner's best TV series (also his first one after years as a film leading man), "It Takes a Thief" has been passed over for video release.
Why is that? The show has all the elements that make a great action show: Suspenseful plots, beautiful women, quality production values, international locales (even if it was all filmed at Universal in Hollywood), and an interesting lead character with Alexander Mundy.
Malachi Throne co-starred as SIA lead agent Noah Bain...who gives our hero Al a pardon in exchange for the former thief agreeing to work for the agency, utilizing his criminal skills. During the 2nd season, Al Mundy manages to become more of a freelance operative although the SIA still hires him for jobs.
The third and final season of the show was even better, starting with the improved version of the wonderful opening theme music and visuals (some of which were launched the previous year).
Edward Binns (as Wally) was the SIA contact who replaced Noah. Even more big name guest stars turned up than before, such as The 5th Dimension, Bette Davis in "Touch of Magic", and Broderick Crawford and Wagner's future Hart to Hart co-star Stefanie Powers in "Fortune City". Most important was the addition of veteran performer Fred Astaire as Alistar Mundy (Al's father, from whom he learned everything he knows) in 6 episodes. "The Great Casino Caper" remains my all-time favorite.
Never mind Astaire's past film career as a dancer and singer. His recurring role on It Takes a Thief is the best example of him (at least on the small screen) as a dramatic actor.
So get on the ball Universal! There are only 65 episodes. How about releasing the partial first season (including the 2 hour pilot "Magnificent Thief") and the second season in a double set. Then after sales go through the roof, you can put the 3rd season out a few months later!
Why is that? The show has all the elements that make a great action show: Suspenseful plots, beautiful women, quality production values, international locales (even if it was all filmed at Universal in Hollywood), and an interesting lead character with Alexander Mundy.
Malachi Throne co-starred as SIA lead agent Noah Bain...who gives our hero Al a pardon in exchange for the former thief agreeing to work for the agency, utilizing his criminal skills. During the 2nd season, Al Mundy manages to become more of a freelance operative although the SIA still hires him for jobs.
The third and final season of the show was even better, starting with the improved version of the wonderful opening theme music and visuals (some of which were launched the previous year).
Edward Binns (as Wally) was the SIA contact who replaced Noah. Even more big name guest stars turned up than before, such as The 5th Dimension, Bette Davis in "Touch of Magic", and Broderick Crawford and Wagner's future Hart to Hart co-star Stefanie Powers in "Fortune City". Most important was the addition of veteran performer Fred Astaire as Alistar Mundy (Al's father, from whom he learned everything he knows) in 6 episodes. "The Great Casino Caper" remains my all-time favorite.
Never mind Astaire's past film career as a dancer and singer. His recurring role on It Takes a Thief is the best example of him (at least on the small screen) as a dramatic actor.So get on the ball Universal! There are only 65 episodes. How about releasing the partial first season (including the 2 hour pilot "Magnificent Thief") and the second season in a double set. Then after sales go through the roof, you can put the 3rd season out a few months later!
