Ep 1. Siege of Terror

In Kojak season 1 episode 1, titled "Siege of Terror," we are introduced to the character of Lieutenant Theo Kojak, a hard-boiled detective in New York City's Manhattan South Precinct. The episode centers around a hostage situation at a high-rise apartment building, where a group of armed revolutionaries have taken several people captive, including a wealthy industrialist.

Kojak is called to the scene to negotiate with the terrorists, who demand the release of several of their comrades who are being held in prison. Kojak pleads for the release of the hostages, but the terrorists remain steadfast in their demands. Over the course of the episode, Kojak tries to gather as much information as possible about the terrorists, hoping to find a weakness or an opening that will allow him to end the siege.

As the situation inside the building becomes increasingly tense, Kojak is forced to make difficult decisions that could mean the difference between life and death for the hostages. He is constantly battling against the clock, as the terrorists have set a deadline for their demands to be met. Kojak must remain cool under pressure and use all of his skills as a detective to defuse the situation and retrieve the hostages safely.

Throughout the episode, we also get glimpses into Kojak's personal life. We see his relationship with his wife, who is concerned for his safety, as well as his interactions with his fellow officers at the precinct. Kojak is a complex character, and we start to see how his job as a cop affects every aspect of his life.

The tension builds steadily throughout the episode, leading to a thrilling conclusion that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The writers do an excellent job of building suspense and creating a sense of urgency, making it clear that the stakes are incredibly high. The acting is superb, with Telly Savalas delivering a standout performance as the tough but compassionate Kojak.

Overall, "Siege of Terror" is an excellent start to Kojak's first season. The episode showcases the show's strengths - a compelling lead character, intense action, and a gripping storyline - and sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling and entertaining series. Fans of crime dramas and police procedurals will undoubtedly find much to enjoy in Kojak.