Episode 16: The New Avengers
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Fast or slow, a bullet can still kill you. Ten years earlier Steed had put a bullet in the chest of a
colleague who had crossed over to the dark side, and the bullet was inching its way toward
the man's heart ever since. In bitter vengeance, the man sets about erasing Steed's very existence. Now, bit by
excruciating bit, everything of value to Steed is being destroyed—until at
last Purdey disappears...
IMHO |
Dark and depressing... not exactly the hallmark of traditional
Avengers fare. But it is surprisingly effective, thanks to its authentic feel.
While it features yet another close friend of Steed's who buys the farm, this one is the
most effective because, unlike all the other friends who were mere plot details of no
consequence, this whole episode is about the friend. Macnee's performance is
moving, Purdey's is touching, and there are some memorable moments laden with
sentimentality, such as a nice exchange between Purdey and Gambit as they share their
admiration for one another. And four bowlers to Laurie Johnson for a great score—why
couldn't he compose music like this for the rest of the series? Unfortunately Clive Revill, playing Steed's childhood chum, occasionally
slows the already studied pace to a virtual standstill as he pauses to mumble vengeful
remarks through gritted teeth, such as "the taste of warm, bitter beer."
Trivia |
Gabrielle Drake (Penny) was one of several actresses screen-tested to replace
Diana Rigg.
Best Line |
Purdey is more upset by the vandalism to Steed's home than he is, and he consoles her with, "The only thing that can't be replaced is the love and life of an old friend. And if the Chinese didn't say that, they damn well ought to have done."
