I watched THE SPECIALIST as part of BCI Eclipse' Drive-in Cult Classics (featuring Crown International Pictures releases) on DVD. As I work my way through the multiple DVD sets, I am growing to like even some of the more melodramatic offerings.
Adam West stars as Jerry Bounds, counsel for the defense, in a case about a water company. Opposing counsel, Pike Smith, whose family built and controlled the town, is determined to have him disbarred before the case can go to trial.
THE SPECIALIST is story of sexual impropriety, courtroom tactics; and, backstabbing politics. Yet it maintains a lively, upbeat tone throughout. Never taking itself seriously, the lurid story unfolds at a steady pace, without being overwrought.
I really enjoyed the funky score, which is "right on" for the times. It really kept the movie moving. Moreover, the Lou Rawls theme song was great.
A surprise treat was the appearance by Alvy Moore, who played Hank Kimball in the Green AcresTV show. As Bailiff Humbolt, he manages to use the same homespun folksiness he did on TV, using terms like "hanky-pank" and "hot-diggity-dog." Even if he tried, he could not appear creepy despite trying to seduce the sultry and enticing Londa Wyeth (played by Ahna Capri).
THE SPECIALIST is a fun diversion; and, an unusual offering from Crown International Pictures; but, I didn't like the ending at all.
Adam West stars as Jerry Bounds, counsel for the defense, in a case about a water company. Opposing counsel, Pike Smith, whose family built and controlled the town, is determined to have him disbarred before the case can go to trial.
THE SPECIALIST is story of sexual impropriety, courtroom tactics; and, backstabbing politics. Yet it maintains a lively, upbeat tone throughout. Never taking itself seriously, the lurid story unfolds at a steady pace, without being overwrought.
I really enjoyed the funky score, which is "right on" for the times. It really kept the movie moving. Moreover, the Lou Rawls theme song was great.
A surprise treat was the appearance by Alvy Moore, who played Hank Kimball in the Green AcresTV show. As Bailiff Humbolt, he manages to use the same homespun folksiness he did on TV, using terms like "hanky-pank" and "hot-diggity-dog." Even if he tried, he could not appear creepy despite trying to seduce the sultry and enticing Londa Wyeth (played by Ahna Capri).
THE SPECIALIST is a fun diversion; and, an unusual offering from Crown International Pictures; but, I didn't like the ending at all.