Classic Espionage Action
There’s a lot to like about this show. In making a list of what I like about Danger Man, aka Secret Agent, I would be sure to mention that it’s still a very valid show. A large reason for that is because the show is based on the same human characteristics and situations that are still evident today. John Drake didn’t rely on period-specific gadgetry or topics that were only of consequence in the 60s. Instead, Drake’s methods, the situations he gets into, and the subject matter, can easily be viewed and appreciated again today, and I think that’s something very special. So if you were at all concerned about watching an ‘old show’ that has no relevance today, you can confidently cast those concerns aside.
The series also featured excellent acting and scripts. The plots and characters vary significantly from episode to episode, and the only recurring star is Drake himself, although the series does eventually costar Richard Wattis, Lionel Murton, and Peter Madden as well. Each episode is a specific case, somewhere in the world, that requires Drake’s careful study and quick wit to solve. The case may be a murder mystery, stolen information or items, protection, and even national security on several occasions. It’s interesting to watch Drake analyze the case and then find the best way to tackle it, using lethal violence as a last resort. It’s always good to see a hero character in these dangerous situations who still tries to keep the enemy alive instead of killing them. It’s also fun to see some of the scenic countryside of all of the places Drake visits throughout this series.
For the first forty or so episodes of the eighty-six episode series, the show runs just twenty-five minutes long. I was impressed with the amount of content the creators were able to pack into that short time period. Viewers will see a spy story from start to finish in that time frame and one that’s generally very satisfying as well. These short episodes certainly have their place in that they provide you with some quick viewing that doesn’t require the commitment that a show twice its length does. That’s not to say the fifty minute episodes aren’t also well done and enjoyable, however.
The DVD Box Set
The Complete Series set is nicely packaged with a great looking box and nine slimline DVD cases inside. Each case contains two discs giving this set eighteen total discs. The art for each case, and disc, is consistent throughout, as are the menus. The edge of each case tells you what disc numbers are inside and the backside of each case contains the episode list and one sentence summary of the episode so you can quickly find the one you’re looking for. This set maintains a consistent presentation and feel throughout, which is exactly what you want out of a complete series box set like this.
Speaking of presentation, the episodes, all but the last two, are in their original black and white, full screen presentation. The final two episodes were made in color when they originally aired. The image and sound quality are very good, with my only complaint being with the audio and its volume. Certain sounds in the series, like the theme song and the instrumental tune that plays at certain critical points, are really loud. However, the normal dialogue is comparatively very quiet, so I found myself shifting the volume on my receiver by as much as ten levels throughout the course of a show. Additionally, there are no subtitles which is a bit of a shame. It’s not too hard to imagine that some of the potential viewers of this DVD set may be older and/or hard of hearing, so subtitles would have been nice to see.
In terms of extra features, there is very little, but I can understand that given the age of this series. A biography and filmography for lead actor Patrick McGoohan is provided as is a photo gallery. The original US opening theme, “Secret Agent Man” by Johnny Rivers, is also included.
With that, let’s get to the summary…