Praise Dilaudid (1983) User Reviews (3)

Solid episode

[Woodyanders · 8/10 · 9 February 2016]

The campaign to get Chief Daniels (Jon Cypher in top slimy form) elected mayor hits several snags: Single mother Faye (an excellent Barbara Bosson) gives Daniels a scorching earful about the city's lax policy for helping single parents, a murder occurs at a shoot-out in Murray's Wonderland, and the court dismisses the Robson case. Moreover, Renko (a very funny Charles Haid) winds up with dyed green skin after busting junkie robber Nick Kassner (well played by Michael Horton), who's otherwise better known as The Emily Post Bandit.

Renko's dilemma provides some really amusing moments while the depiction of Kassner as a pitiable drug addict with a seven hundred dollar a day dope habit serves as a sterling testament to this show's bold willingness to tackle tough subject matter head on. Belker (a nicely snarly Bruce Weitz) has a great conversation with proud smut peddler Murray (an excellent portrayal by Milton Selzer), who in turn also has a terrific death speech. Jeffrey Tambor is an absolute hoot as shady lawyer (and cross dresser!) Alan Wachtel. Marilyn Jones also excels as Kassner's pathetic strung-out snitch girlfriend Desiree. The climax with Goldblume (a fine Joe Spano) handling a hostage situation proves to be quite tense and gripping. An on the money episode.

Daniels Down the Drain

[Hitchcoc · 9/10 · 19 July 2021]

Chief Daniels can't leave well enough alone. He crosses the line numerous times trying to control the scenario. He reads a letter that is being seen for the first time about the Robson case. Fay also takes him to task. The remainder is a hostage situation where Henry shines. We also have Jeffrey Tambor cross dressing for the first time.

Another slam-bang episode.

[Hey_Sweden · 8/10 · 7 April 2024]

Currently, an armed robber is on the loose, one who is known for his steadfast politeness. His girlfriend (Marilyn Jones, an episodic TV veteran) rats him out to the police, and he's revealed to be Nicky Kasner (Michael Horton, "Star Trek: First Contact"), a junkie. Later, Nicky escapes from custody, and holes up in a house where he *demands* to get his fix or else he'll kill the homeowner. The bust at Murray's Wonderland ends badly for Murray himself (Milton Selzer). While single mother Doris Robson (Alfre Woodard) is ultimately set free, Daniels' shameless maneuvering once again shows him up for the slimeball that he is. His mayoral campaign derails due to several factors, including a debate that goes badly, and the fact that Fay takes him to task in front of reporters.

Jon Cypher is just so good portraying Daniels as this sleazy character that he makes him a great example of the "love to hate the character" concept. One other great example of humor is when Renko opens the suitcase that Kasner had been carrying when Renko & Bobby busted him. As a result, the dye pack explodes in Renkos' face instead of the criminals'! "Oh Lord, I'm green!" He tries various means throughout the episode of getting the dye off. Also of note is Jeffrey Tambors' re-appearance as shameless lawyer Alan Wachtel, who is going through gender identity issues; Tambor is always seen wearing the same dress.

There are typically wonderful guest star turns, as well as a riveting standoff finale where Henry figures to let Kasner get his fix in order to apprehend him in a "clean" manner. I'm sure other people besides me breathed a sigh of relief when everything worked out in that instance. And we get more touching & effective character moments for Belker, as he realizes that Murray is not such a bad guy; it's wonderful when Belker tells off Mahoney, stating that he would have rather worked for Murray than ever be a cop under Mahoney's command.

Eight out of 10.