The Rockford Files. Season 2, Episode 4. "Gearjammers, Part 2"
This is much better than Part One. Most of the screentime is devoted to Jim and his dad, Rocky. James Garner and Noah Beery Jr. have great chemistry and the script wisely gives them many types of scenes to play: humour, character moments, action, etc. It's a very satisfying episode.
When the two guys aren't alone, they are usually talking to Becker and Joe Santos fits perfectly into the mix.
There are many great scenes, but I particularly love the argument the Rockford's have in Jim's trailer as he tries to stop Rocky from leaving to go home.
There are many funny lines, but I howled with laughter when Jim muttered that Becker had the 'Brains of a chicken' as his cop buddy manager to led a truckload of cargo get stolen out from under his nose. Terrific.
Story-wise, there's not much here to impress. The bad guy's plan is (wisely) kept in the background most of the time. When it does get dealt with, it's hard to believe this was worthy of a two-part episode. Especially when the first half looks more and more like filler when you look back at it.
Never mind, the all-action climax is pretty impressive (with three large trucks in a high speed chase).
Bottom line: watch this one to enjoy seeing Jim and his dad work a case together.
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The Rockford Files. Season 2, Episode 4. "Gearjammers, Part 2"
