It Takes a Thief "One Night on Soledade" #2.1 (1968) (TV)

Season 2 gets off to a fine start, 21 August 2019

The Quick Pitch:  When the son of Soledade’s dictator dies, Mundy is called in to steal his body.  The government fears that if it is discovered he was poisoned, it could start a war with Soledade’s neighbor.

One Night on Soledade is an interesting start to Season 2.  If you’re a fan of the more serious episodes with an intricate caper featuring drama and suspense around every corner, you’ll probably not care for this Mundy adventure.  One Night on Soeldade has a much lighter feel than a lot of what you’ll run across in most of Season 1. A recording of ghostly noises in the catacombs, a dead body moving on the slab, and emeralds being deposited one-by-one in a woman’s cleavage – not what you’ll find in a serious spy story.  Overall, I appreciated and enjoyed the change in tone and I’m interested to see which way the rest of Season 2 goes. I just hope this tonal shift doesn’t go too far. 

I’m sure I also noticed a change in Wagner’s portrayal of Alexander Mundy.  He seemed more relaxed and comfortable in the role. I think the lighter tone suited his personality.  Don Weis’ direction is equally relaxed, as this was Weis’ seventh turn in the director’s chair. The supporting cash is excellent with Thomas Gomez, Madlyn Rhue, and the gorgeous Nancy Kovack all giving very capable performances. 

7/10