Dangerous Assignment-The C

Brian Donlevy is US agent Steve Mitchell, in producer Harold Knox's Dangerous Assignment, a suspenseful TV series that ran during the 1952-1953 season. Most episodes start in Washington DC, where Mitchell, who works for an unspecified agency, drops in at the office of `The Commissioner' to be briefed about his latest assignment. And then he's off, usually to some exotic foreign location, at the far corner of the world. Europe, the Middle East, Africa, South and Central America and the Far East, are just a few of the places that Mitchell assignments take him to. Often when taking a flight, Mitchell provides a narrative regarding his upcoming mission, or at other times he comments on his current status.

Mitchell is competent and thoroughly professional, and he needs to be, as he is almost always in unfamiliar territory. At his destination, there is usually someone he is to contact, to either get help or information. Things sometimes unfold like a detective story, and other times events happen like an adventure. Mitchell, in his 50's, isn't flashy or a great fighter, he relies on his wits and a keen eye for detail, to develop and follow leads. The tone is almost always serious, and Mitchell appears a little stiff at times, almost always dressed a suit. The opposition is clever, and for all his skills, Mitchell is baffled or misled at times, and gets coshed on the head more than a few times. Still, he usually finds a pretty credible way to come out on top.

Overall, this series is entertaining and very well-written. The stories are usually gritty and mostly believable. Mitchell appears in many situations and locations, which helps keep things interesting. He may not be the most charismatic fellow, but Mitchell gets the job done without any gimmicks or gadgets. His fights are usually very short, and he rarely uses a gun, or has to kill someone. The series may be seen as too ancient or slow, by those accustomed to the modern James Bond style of intrigue.

Dangerous Assignment was first a NBC radio program (1949-53), with Donlevy as Steve Mitchell. Donlevy worked to bring the program to the then new medium, television. Utilizing some of the same creative team, the TV show is quite similar to the radio program, in the type of stories, style of presentation, and even the same theme music. Some radio episodes were adapted for the screen, and Herb Butterworth who was The Commissioner on the radio show, also appeared in the role a few times on the TV program. Making several appearances in various minor roles is Jim Davis (Dallas).

I enjoyed the old radio programs but didn't realize that there was a TV series as well. I ordered it and I have watched the first few programs and enjoy it as much as the radio series. I recommend it as being well worth the price.

Excellent video quality considering how old the programs are. I honestly have to say that I purchased it because my husband's mother acted in one of the episodes. And naturally He and I both thought she was the best actress in the series.. Heheheheh... But all in all a great entertainment value for those like the genre...

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