Death and Taxes

This is another ep along the lines of where the series developed with a greater concentration on more serious shows, and this was no different. I agree with the other review that the Collins song Mama was a perfect choice, although I'm a little prejudice in that this is the music I enjoyed as a teen.

The series definitely turned to darker ep's as it developed, and I don't know if that had anything to do with its going away. I watched sporadic ep's as most of the series run I was in high school and the navy so didn't have the time to watch them with they aired generally. Watching/Rewatching them as an older person I enjoy them.

This for me, was one of the more disturbing episodes. The psychotic killer who taunts Magnum with nursery rhymes could have been created from the imagination of Thomas Harris (Hannibal Lecter fame). He was truly a scary creation. There were no moments of levity in this one. It was taut and relentless from beginning to end. Warning: do not mistake the error of watching it before bedtime! LOL.

As stated a much darker episode than usual. No doubt inspired by the darker subject matter in Miami Vice which was at its peak at the time. An excellent change of pace. Time Selleck showing that he can show a serious side to his character and perfectly balanced with the Ripper. Great stuff all round.

I will never forget this because of the song: "Mama" by Genesis. It was by far the absolute perfect choice for this episode "Death and Taxes". Couldn't have picked a better time to play it, or the perfect song to play. I will never forget this one. I seriously think of it every time I hear the song.

Death and Taxes from Season 7 is by far and away my all-time favorite episode from the vaunted series. Kenneth Tigar (an excellent character actor throughout his career) was great as The Ripper and he played well off Tom Selleck's energy throughout. Always staying one step ahead of Magnum throughout the episode until the very end. A real cat and mouse game. It truly put Magnum to the test. And that's why it'll always be my all-time favorite Magnum, P. I. Episode!