Ep 1. Two Hundred Mile-per-Hour Fastball
- TV-PG
- November 4, 1981
- 49 min
-
6.3 (91)
The Greatest American Hero season 2 episode 1, titled "Two Hundred Mile-per-Hour Fastball," takes viewers on another thrilling adventure with our unlikely superhero, Ralph Hinkley, aka the Greatest American Hero.
In this highly anticipated season opener, our hero finds himself facing a new set of challenges and danger as he tries to balance his double life as a high school teacher and a crime-fighting superhero. Ralph's superhero abilities, derived from a mysterious red suit given to him by extraterrestrial beings, continue to provide him with incredible powers, including superhuman strength, flight, and the ability to see through objects. However, with great power comes great responsibility, and Ralph must navigate the complexities of both his personal and superhero lives.
As the episode begins, we find Ralph tackling a dilemma known to many young Americans: the pressure to perform well in sports. Ralph's students are excited about the upcoming game against a rival high school, but they lack confidence in their abilities. As the coach expresses his frustration, Ralph seizes the opportunity to impart some life lessons. He reminds his students that true success comes from believing in oneself and working hard, encouraging them to embrace teamwork rather than relying on individual glory.
Meanwhile, the city is plagued by a string of brazen armed robberies, leaving law enforcement struggling to apprehend the culprits. The situation takes a dangerous turn when the criminals target an armored money transport vehicle, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. The police are desperate for a solution, and that's when the Greatest American Hero steps in.
Ralph, accompanied by his loyal friend and confidant, Bill Maxwell, a grizzled FBI agent, embarks on an investigation to bring the criminals to justice. Their quest is not without its share of perils, as they find themselves entangled in a web of deception, corruption, and unexpected alliances. With their lives on the line, Ralph must put his superhero skills to the test, all while trying to keep his identity a secret.
As the episode unfolds, we witness Ralph's growth as a superhero and his determination to make a difference. His unwavering belief in justice and his commitment to protecting the innocent drive him to push his limits further, discovering new abilities and refining his crime-fighting techniques. However, Ralph's journey is not without its share of self-doubt and mistakes, reminding us that even superheroes are only human.
Alongside the exhilarating action sequences, "Two Hundred Mile-per-Hour Fastball" delves into the personal lives of our beloved characters. We witness the complexities of Ralph's relationship with his girlfriend, Pam, as well as his struggles to balance his superhero life with his teaching career. Additionally, Bill Maxwell's tough exterior begins to crack, revealing his vulnerabilities and the toll his dangerous line of work has taken on his personal life.
As the episode draws to a close, Ralph and Bill find themselves on the brink of uncovering the mastermind behind the city's crime wave. The stakes have never been higher, and the battle between good and evil intensifies. United by their shared mission, these two unlikely heroes must confront their demons and rise to the occasion, proving that true heroism knows no bounds.
The season 2 premiere of The Greatest American Hero, "Two Hundred Mile-per-Hour Fastball," delivers the perfect blend of heart-pounding action, heartfelt moments, and thought-provoking themes. With its relatable characters and captivating storytelling, this episode sets the stage for a thrilling season ahead, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the next installment of Ralph Hinkley's superhero journey.