Ep 17. Dwarf in a Helium Hat

Jim Rockford is back in action in the season 4 episode 17 of The Rockford Files with the intriguing name "Dwarf in a Helium Hat". This episode of the 70s classic TV series aired on February 3, 1978, and brings in a perfect blend of comedy, mystery, and action.

The episode starts off with Rockford, played by James Garner, visiting his friend and fellow private investigator Richie Brockleman. While Richie is busy with his new job of selling fire extinguishers, Rockford is intrigued by the sight of a midget in a helium hat who comes to visit him. The midget, who introduces himself as Victor, claims he has been sent by a mutual acquaintance to hire Rockford's services for investigating a case. Victor's description of the man who has hired him reeks of trouble, but Rockford takes on the case anyway, as he is curious as to how a midget in a helium hat fits into the equation.

The case soon unravels, and Rockford realizes he has gotten himself into a lot more trouble than he anticipated. The man Victor was referring to is a client of Rockford's who is facing a blackmail attempt. The blackmailer, who has gathered some incriminating evidence against the client, is demanding a large sum of money. The client has no choice but to pay up, and he hires Rockford to deliver the money to the blackmailer. However, Rockford's doubts about Victor's credibility lead him to believe that the little person is not who he says he is.

With the help of Angel, Rockford's friend and occasional partner in crime, and some of his other contacts, Rockford starts to unravel the mystery behind the blackmail and the identity of the blackmailer. He soon comes to the conclusion that the blackmailer is someone close to the client, and the evidence was most likely concocted.

As the story unfolds, Rockford finds himself in dangerous situations, with the midget in the helium hat always lurking in the background. It soon becomes apparent that Victor's involvement in the case is more than just that of a messenger.

The episode features some great acting by James Garner, who delivers witty one-liners and sarcasm with ease. The supporting cast includes Noah Beery Jr. as Rockford's father, Stuart Margolin as Angel, and Robert Hogan as the client. The episode is a testament to the great writing by Stephen J. Cannell and Juanita Bartlett, who keep the audience guessing till the end.

The Rockford Files would not be complete without the iconic theme music by Mike Post, which adds to the overall charm of the show. The episode also features some great shots of Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the city in the 70s.

In conclusion, "Dwarf in a Helium Hat" is a classic episode of The Rockford Files that showcases the perfect blend of humor, mystery, and action. The storyline keeps the audience engaged till the end, with some twist and turns that keep them guessing. James Garner's portrayal of Jim Rockford is top-notch, and the supporting cast is equally good. Overall, it is an episode that will keep the audience entertained and leave them wanting more.