Ep 1. Savage Sunday

In the pilot episode of the classic 70s cop show Starsky and Hutch, titled "Savage Sunday," our two titular heroes find themselves up against a vicious gang of extortionists known as the Black Baron.

The episode starts with a tense scene in which a group of people are gathered in a diner, nervously discussing the recent string of robberies and threats they've been receiving from the Black Baron. Suddenly, a car crashes through the front window of the diner, sending everyone diving for cover as the gangsters inside unleash a hail of bullets.

Enter our heroes, detectives David Starsky (played by Paul Michael Glaser) and Ken "Hutch" Hutchinson (played by David Soul). They quickly size up the situation and take charge, engaging the gangsters in a tense shootout that leaves one of them dead and the others on the run.

From there, the episode picks up pace as Starsky and Hutch work to track down the Black Baron and prevent their next planned robbery. Along the way, they use all the tools at their disposal - from undercover work at a car dealership to a high-speed car chase through the city streets - to stay one step ahead of the criminals.

One of the stand-out elements of "Savage Sunday" is the chemistry between the two lead actors. Glaser and Soul have an easy, natural rapport that makes their banter and one-liners feel organic and entertaining. They play off each other well, both in moments of high tension and in more lighthearted scenes.

Another notable aspect of the episode is its use of music. Starsky and Hutch was known for its catchy theme song, but the music really shines in the actual episodes - particularly in "Savage Sunday." The funky, upbeat score helps to set the tone and keeps the action moving along nicely.

Of course, like any good cop show, there are plenty of twists and turns in the plot to keep things interesting. Starsky and Hutch face not only the threat of the Black Baron, but also internal politics within the police department and personal vendettas that threaten to derail their investigation.

Despite these obstacles, the detectives remain dedicated to their mission of bringing the Black Baron to justice. There are some thrilling setpieces along the way, including a dramatic confrontation at a local football stadium and a nail-biting showdown on a deserted pier.

Overall, "Savage Sunday" serves as a strong introduction to the world of Starsky and Hutch. It establishes the main characters, their dynamic, and the overall tone and style of the show. It's a fast-paced, thrilling ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat - and leave you wanting more.