Lovejoy “The Firefly Cage” #1.1 (1986) (TV)

Lovejoy Begins, 1 October 2019

Lovejoy gets mixed up with some pretty nasty antique thieves after he’s accused of selling stolen goods and an old friend who may know something is murdered. 

That’s a fairly short plot summary, but as a first episode, the plot comes secondary to establishing a framework for the series and getting a foothold into the world of Lovejoy.  Don’t misunderstand, the plot in The Firefly Cage is plenty entertaining with stolen antiques, hidden clues, and one of the series’ best action set-pieces, it’s just that there are far better, more interesting episodes to come.

What we do get in spades in The Firefly Cage is an introduction to all the main characters.  It doesn’t take long to get a feel for Lovejoy. He loves antiques, money, women, and drink. At heart, he’s honest, but he walks a fine line between legal and illegal if thinks he can make a bit of money.  And, he’s not above taking advantage of someone who deserves it. He wins over the very proper Lady Jane during their first adventure together when she watches how tenderly he holds an old man dying in his arms.  The first episode gives us insight into Lovejoy’s relationship with rival antique dealer Gimbert. We immediately see how each relishes in the others’ misfortune. Then there’s Eric and Tinker. It’s apparent these two will be responsible for much of the funnier bits to come.  Finally, we’re introduced to the gorgeous English countryside, Denis King’s equally lovely and brilliant music, and the warmth and comfort that comes from watching Lovejoy. These things are just about as important as any character to the show’s enjoyment. 

In short, The Firefly Cage is a good start to an excellent series. 

7/10