Most of the shows set to music by the talented Edwin Astley make for perfect escapist television that I am sure Bob Butler would love (even if there are enjoyable theoretical conversations to be had about them). And no matter how many of the introductions you see, watching the white halo playfully pop up over Roger Moore's charming head never gets old or less exciting. So when one finds themselves with a week to convalesce (from what you're not sure but you try not to worry because it probably is just that, lots of worry), you may turn to "The Saint" (1962-69). The black-and-white episodes of the first two series have been perfect for an unexpected but fortunate snuggle at home: just yours truly, Earl Grey tea, and an exemplary Simon Templar. I've always loved reading Leslie Charteris stories on many free rainy evenings; they wander between the usual delicious Bond-like global spy thriller plots of the decade and a kind of smart, plummy police detective or domestic mystery/drama story. And while this rakishly dapper, white-tie Robin Hood elegantly toes a softly ambiguous moral line, he somehow always punishes 'the ungodly' and avenges 'the meek.'
Imperfect at times to modern sensibilities but above all, the deceptively leisurely, cool Simon doesn't care for injustice or the vulnerable being taken advantage of. Of course neither do you, so it's a joyful experience all around. In this whirl of exotic or interesting settings with martinis and jewellery, and atmospheric music that carries you through the gently witty, urbane dialogue, the viewer is treated to almost an hour of entertainment and adventure, complete with a host of character actors that will be so familiar and beloved to anyone who loves 60's British film and television, filling out the portrait of a cheeky, debonair, and unlikely hero. Perhaps now, trying to recover, a little something to give one borrowed strength, I think Xo
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