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The Movie: A relic of 80's TV, "Riptide" is a breezy action/detective series from prolific TV producer Stephen J. Cannell ("A-Team", "Hunter", "The Rockford Files" and many others), "Riptide" focused on Nick Ryder (Joe Penny) and Cody Allen (Perry King), two Vietnam vets who find themselves in the detective business, chasing down criminals in California with the help of their pink helicopter, pair of boats and friends like computer nerd Murray Bozinsky (Thom Bray) and Mama Jo (Anne Francis). The series isn't going to be mistaken for one of the best of its genre, but it does offer a decent mix of laughs, action and scantily-clad women (they are on the water, after all). Whenever the duo need help, there's also always Murray's computers (within minutes, Murray has built himself a control room on the boat) or robot (which looks like a small orange dinosaur), which seem to be able to provide just about any bit of information needed to crack the case. The performances are fun and the show works even better thanks to the fact that it doesn't take the material too seriously. 01- Riptide (Pilot) (1) 1/3/1984 02- Riptide (Pilot) (2) 1/3/1984 03- Conflict Of Interest 1/10/1984 04- Somebody's Killing The Great Geeks Of America 1/17/1984 05- Hatchet Job 1/31/1984 06- The Mean Green Love Machine 2/7/1984 07- Diamonds Are For Never 2/21/1984 08- The Hardcase 2/28/1984 09- Four-Eyes 3/6/1984 10- #1 With A Bullet 3/20/1984 11- Long Distance Daddy 3/27/1984 12- Double Your Pleasure 4/3/1984 13- Raiders Of The Lost Sub 5/15/1984 14- Something Fishy 5/22/1984 The DVD VIDEO: "Riptide" is presented by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment in the show's original 1.33:1 full-frame aspect ratio. The show doesn't look too bad on this new presentation, simply a bit inconsistent. Some shots look a tad worn and some minor shimmering occasionally appears, but when it looks great, it looks quite good. The best moments look crisp and clear, with respectable detail, considering the age of the series. Colors can look a tad flat at times, but generally appear accurately presented. SOUND: The show's stereo soundtrack offered clear dialogue, effects and score. EXTRAS: Sorry, "Riptide" fans - nothing. Final Thoughts: "Riptide" is a bit corny and more than a bit cheesy, but it's still a fun action/comedy for those who enjoy 80's TV. |