Ep 4. The Comic

Peter Gunn is a popular television series that ran from 1958 to 1961, featuring private investigator Peter Gunn as its lead character. Season 2 Episode 4, titled "The Comic," sees Gunn getting involved in a murder investigation that has connections to the world of comedy.

The episode begins with a high-profile comedian named Herbie, who is at the peak of his career. He has a talk show and does stand-up comedy in his spare time, which is loved by thousands of fans across the country. However, his world comes crashing down when he is accused of murdering one of his colleagues, a comedian named Johnny Dancer.

Peter Gunn is approached by Herbie, who is seeking his help in clearing his name. Gunn, with the help of his friend Lieutenant Jacoby, starts to investigate the case and gather information regarding the murder. The investigation leads Gunn to one of Johnny's fellow comedians, who has a motive for Johnny's murder.

Gunn also encounters members of the gangster community who are unhappy with Herbie's brand of comedy as it lampoons their activities. As a result, they have been pressurizing him to change his material, and Gunn suspects their involvement in the murder.

Along with the murder investigation, the episode also delves into the private life of Herbie, who has a history of gambling and womanizing. He is in debt and has borrowed money from a known underworld figure, which complicates the case even more.

The episode has a noir feel to it, highlighted by the use of shadow and light, which creates an eerie atmosphere. The show also features some great jazz music, with Henry Mancini's iconic theme tune setting the tone for the entire season.

As always, Peter Gunn's character is presented as a suave, cool detective who is always one step ahead of his adversaries. The show is a quintessential representation of the detective noir genre, with its perfect blend of style and substance.

The episode's plot follows a familiar pattern, with the audience being introduced to various suspects who might have a motive for the murder. The investigation is pursued in a methodical manner, with Gunn meticulously piecing together the clues and evidence that ultimately leads to the killer's identity.

Overall, "The Comic" is a well-crafted episode that showcases the series' strengths. It benefits from a great cast, with Craig Stevens perfectly fitting the role of the titular character, and other actors playing their parts convincingly. The setting and atmosphere are both excellent, with the writing keeping the audience engaged throughout the episode. It's an excellent example of a classic detective show that is sure to engage audiences both young and old.