I agree with the last reviewer, and wrote about it in the last review, this episode was a prelude to the next season. More over, after that slam-bang fight between Joe and Wickersham a few episodes back, you knew things were changing.
And another unforgettable title. Love it.
Dorothy Herald wrote this episode, who later wrote for the SNOOP SISTERS. The only cautionary note here is she followed the same route of many other series writers; it gets complex, an adventure you have to watch carefully OR you will miss something quickly. Only leave the room during commercials.
One of the most memorable tough guys, Howard Da Silva, is perfect as a mobster called Aram Karmalis. Here's the catch. Wickersham agrees to go to work for him and Joe QUITS on the spot! Of course.... there's a valuable necklace at stake and Mannix is back on job doing it HIS way. What all us kids loved.
Mariana Hill guest stars as Marcie, much like Da Silva, quite popular on tv. In films, her most recognized role was as Fredo's drunken wife in THE GODFATHER, PART II. Watch for it.
In the spot the old timer department; funny lady Jody Gilbert (in many B films and tv shows) plays Kitty and 1930s boxer Noble "Kid" Chissel plays a diner patron. Kid appeared in westerns and tv shows, such as GUNSMOKE and the casting people always got him a gig.
This was the only action episode directed by Louis Brandt, who served as assistant director for a string of cult movies in the 50s. He handles the cast well.
Super trivia note; prior this episode, Howard Da Silva narrated an iconic tv commercial for Vicks formula 44 cough syrup, starring Odd Job from GOLDFINGER. It also features Mrs. Odd Job! I think it was filmed at the Warner Brothers lot in Burbank and he wrecks the neighborhood. Should be in the tv commercial Hall of Fame. Google it.
10 STARS. SEASON 1 EPISODE 19. Remastered CBS/Paramount dvd box set. Classic first season box with Joe on the cover.