Ep 2. The Count of Montecito

The Count of Montecito is the second episode of the second season of Las Vegas, a popular television series that initially premiered on September 22, 2003, and concluded on February 15, 2008. The show revolves around a fast-paced lifestyle of the Montecito Resort and Casino, based in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The episode opens with Danny McCoy, protagonist and resident security expert at the Montecito, walking down to the pool area to meet his childhood friend and acclaimed slackliner, Andy. Andy's presence is a treat to Danny, who is thrilled to have his friend back in Vegas after years, even though he struggles to watch Andy perform death-defying stunts on the highlines that careen over the casino. Danny takes it upon himself to ensure that the young man is safe by deputizing him, a move that Andy is amused by but takes up eagerly.

Meanwhile, the former owner of the casino, A.J. Cooper, visits the Montecito with his three beautiful daughters. Cooper is an ex-con, and head of security Ed Deline warns Danny to keep a close eye on him. A.J. Cooper quickly establishes himself as the most important high roller in the hotel and seems to have a particular liking for Sam Marquez, the hotel's director of entertainment and recently promoted casino host. Sam is initially taken aback by Cooper's forwardness, especially when she discovers that he has been marking her with chips as if she were a prized possession at a roulette table.

Meanwhile, Ed receives an urgent dispatch from one of his former CIA colleagues. The bureau wants him to look into the finances of a shady character known to them as "the Count," who is rumored to operate from the Montecito. As Ed delves deeper into the matter and begins to close in on the Count's identity, he realizes that A.J. Cooper and the Count are closely linked, with millions of dollars at stake.

The Count of Montecito is action-packed and suspenseful. It highlights Danny McCoy's loyal nature when it comes to his friends, as he willingly puts himself on the line to keep Andy safe. The interactions between Sam and A.J. Cooper are tense, and the viewer can't help but feel for Sam as she struggles to navigate unfamiliar territory. It's a treat to watch James Caan as Ed Deline, unravel a complex money-laundering scheme and, as always, bring a certain charm to his character.

In summary, The Count of Montecito is an excellent addition to the second season of Las Vegas. It has everything that the viewer could hope for, including a thrilling storyline, well-developed characters, and a remarkable performance by the cast.