Ep 1. When Irish Eyes Are Crying

When Irish Eyes Are Crying is the first episode of the third season of the popular 1980s TV series Miami Vice. In the episode, detectives Sonny Crockett (Don Johnson) and Ricardo Tubbs (Philip Michael Thomas) investigate the murder of an Irish mob boss named John Cates, who was killed by a hitman named Frank Mosca (Danny Quinn). As they delve deeper into the case, they discover a web of corruption involving Cates' daughter Caitlin (Helena Bonham Carter), a crooked lawyer named Arthur Lawson (Robert Culp), and a ruthless drug lord named Guzman (Miguel Pinero).

The episode begins with an impressive action sequence as Crockett and Tubbs intercept a drug deal and engage in a thrilling boat chase that ends with them taking down the smugglers and seizing their contraband. This sets the tone for the rest of the episode, which is filled with intense action, suspenseful twists and turns, and stylish visuals that have become synonymous with the Miami Vice brand.

As the detectives investigate Cates' murder, they begin to suspect that there is more to the case than meets the eye. They learn that Cates was planning to testify against Guzman, who had offered him a deal to go into hiding in exchange for his silence. Although Cates initially accepted the deal, he changed his mind after learning that his daughter Caitlin was in danger and decided to come out of hiding and testify against Guzman in court. This decision ultimately cost him his life, as Mosca was hired by Lawson to kill him before he could testify.

As Crockett and Tubbs dig deeper into the case, they find themselves caught in the crossfire between the Irish mob and the drug lord, with Caitlin and Lawson playing vital roles in the conflict. Caitlin's involvement adds an emotional dimension to the story, as she struggles to come to terms with her father's death and her own role in the corruption that surrounds her.

The episode is notable for its strong guest performances, particularly by Helena Bonham Carter as Caitlin Cates, who brings a vulnerable yet determined energy to her portrayal of the grieving daughter. Robert Culp is also excellent as the suave and sinister Arthur Lawson, whose true motives remain hidden until the final act.

Overall, When Irish Eyes Are Crying is a thrilling and engaging episode that showcases the strengths of Miami Vice as a series. Its blend of action, suspense, and stylish visuals make it an unforgettable installment in the show's history, and a must-see for fans of the crime genre.