Ep 31. The Saint Plays With Fire

The Saint Plays With Fire is a captivating episode from the first season of the classic British television series The Saint, which originally aired in the 1960s. The show stars Roger Moore as the suave and sophisticated Simon Templar, a modern-day Robin Hood known as "The Saint." In this episode, Templar's sharp wits and penchant for adventure lead him into a web of political intrigue, mystery, and danger.

The episode commences with Templar attending a lavish party at the country estate of a powerful publishing magnate. It is here that he encounters a mix of society's crème de la crème, including politicians, celebrities, and influencers. However, the glitz and glamour of the event are quickly overshadowed by an undercurrent of tension and secrecy among the guests.

As the night unfolds, a fire breaks out on the estate grounds, and within it, Simon Templar discovers a body. This incident ignites Templar's curiosity and propels him into an investigation that seems at first to be a tragic accident but soon reveals itself as a cover for something far more sinister. It is a case that touches the very heart of the British establishment, threatening to expose a conspiracy that could have dire consequences for the nation.

Keen to solve the mystery, Templar enlists the help of an old friend with connections in high places. Through a series of clever maneuvers and his usual charm, Templar begins to peel away the layers of deceit, finding that the fire was no mere accident but a deliberate act of sabotage designed to silence someone who knew too much. With each piece of evidence, he edges closer to a dangerous truth, which someone is willing to kill to keep hidden.

Throughout this episode, Roger Moore's portrayal of The Saint is at its peak. He exudes charismatic energy and a sophisticated flair, walking the line between fearless investigator and charming rogue. The Saint's sense of justice drives him as much as the excitement of the chase. He confronts various characters, from uncooperative witnesses to shadowy figures with ulterior motives, all while maintaining his calm demeanor and sharp sense of humor.

The Saint Plays With Fire showcases the show's talent for mixing action with wit, as Templar faces off against opponents in high-speed car chases, close-quarters combat, and intellectual duels of strategy. The writing is taut, with dialogue that sparkles with innuendo and repartee, which are hallmarks of the series.

Supporting characters play pivotal roles in the unfolding drama, each delicately woven into the narrative to enhance the suspense and contribute to the plot's complexity. These characters include a charming but secretive woman who catches Templar's eye, a journalist with a nose for a story that may be too hot to handle, and a political figure whose ambitions hide a dark side. Together, they create a tapestry of motives and suspicions that The Saint must navigate with care.

Aesthetically, the episode uses its 1960s setting to full effect. The period-correct costumes, vehicles, and decor immerse viewers in a bygone era of elegance juxtaposed with the darker undertones of the story. The cinematography captures this duality, moving from the warm glow of high society events to the shadowy corners where clandestine meetings and treacherous deals take place.

The theme of political manipulation is central to The Saint Plays With Fire, with Simon Templar uncovering the lengths to which individuals will go to secure power and influence. The episode does an excellent job of keeping the viewer in suspense regarding the true agenda behind the fire and the murder. Clues are distributed sparingly, rewarding attentive viewers while not giving away the resolution too soon.

As with many episodes in the series, The Saint Plays With Fire serves as a standalone story, ensuring that new watchers can enjoy the intrigue without needing to have watched previous episodes. However, for regular viewers, the episode further develops Templar's character, providing insight into how he operates within and reacts to the social and political landscapes he encounters.

In sum, The Saint Plays With Fire is a fine installment of The Saint series, blending mystery, action, and political drama against the backdrop of 1960s Britain. It is an episode that showcases Roger Moore's charm and the enduring appeal of Simon Templar, a character who defines what it means to be a gentleman adventurer, ever ready to confront wrongdoing regardless of the personal cost.