Knight Rider Codex
Complete Collection; 24 discs"One man can make a difference."
Having appreciated this series since forever, I was most pleased to acquire this comprehensive video codex for timelessly stimulating entertainment at one's leisure.
Cruising in recently to The Haunted Noctuary is the Complete Knight Rider collection, which could also be veritably named The Ultimate Collection, and The Knight Rider Codex, for it is just perfection; and here is why:
Every episode is preserved in this impressive attaché case-like sleek, glossy black box* shaped ever so slightly like the front end of KITT's front fender, complete with scanner, activated by pressing a button, which is accompanied by the theme. An overall futuristic impression. Already a gratifying experience which just gets better and better.
The DVD's & cases themselves are presented in slim, elegant black splendor, whereupon engaging the main menu, snippets of the series play along with the characteristic scanner moving with ones selection. Full descriptions on back in digital font, framed by a computer chip like border. The episodes are crisp and clear, with great sound quality,
Special features include interviews with cast and crew (The Hoff, series creator Glen A. Larson, composer Don Peake, & stunt coordinator Andy Gill); an "owners manual" ("Autonomicon", detailing the various functions on KITT's interactive dashboard}; stills gallery, blueprints (of KITT, several sets, and The Knight Foundation Mansion); and the film Knight Rider 2000 (which proves to be the "Addams Family Reunion" of this series).
So follow the adventures of this secretive vigilante (a veritable modern Black Knight**), and the wonder car KITT into the future of all possibilities.
Knight is right!
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* The card stock description attached lightly on the back should be removed carefully and preserved separately.
** It is interesting to note many of the parallels between Knight Rider and The Black Knight Batman {which incidentally, was never intended by creator Bob Kane to be so goofy as portrayed by the Adam West variation; but more akin to Tim Burton's portrayal}. Ironically, the Knight Foundation Mansion used in subsequent episodes is the very same location formerly used as Wayne Manor by the Batman series, as is the Batcave in Griffith Park for the "Burial Grounds" episode.
A young man set on revenge. His partner... an indestructible car. .... A lone crusader in a dangerous world....the world of....the Knight Rider ..."Knight Rider has remained a favored presentation of Mine ever since I became aware of it as a Dracling, and it is no wonder it held a natural attraction, considering that upon analysis, it is obviously replete with Satanic principles throughout!
KITT ['Knight Industries Two-Thousand'; The Infernal Machine]
Not only is KITT a manifestation of Artificial Intelligence, which we are major proponents of, from the aesthetics demonstrating The Command to Look {The Lighthouse Effect}, but also the fact that it was built for a governmental weapons plan called 'Prometheus', seems a very obvious contemplation, as Prometheus is another iconic representation of the Satanic, and a very appropriate one.
In the Greek myth, the iconoclastic Prometheus brought the flame of life and forbidden knowledge to mankind, with a myriad of cultural correlations.
KNIGHT OF THE PHOENIX: Knight Rider premieres on NBC; the series about a Police Officer named 'Michael Long' hired by a private organization known as F.L.A.G. {The Foundation for Law And Government} to fight crime after being disfigured during an investigation in Las Vegas. Returning to Los Angeles, he begins his quest after recovery and adopting the new face & identity of Michael Knight. His partner, a super-car named K.I.T.T. {the Knight Industries Two Thousand} whose technological capabilities allow an equalizing factor, in many cases, a superior factor, in attaining justice against those formerly considered "above the law". This artificial intelligence vehicle assumes a personality all its own, seemingly evolving as experience and data is gained {greatly resembling that of FLAG founder Wilton Knight}.
Together with Devon Miles {successor, spokesperson, organizational curator, philanthropist & fine gentleman} & Bonnie Barstow / April Curtis {KITT's lovely & ingenious technician}, they implement principles of Lex Talionis by providing a balance factor when needed.
Likened characterizations of The Dark Knight Batman and James Bond, Knight Rider is a timelessly inspirational series, it will be observed that all of these futuristic capacities have since come to pass, and continue to do so in a continual evolution of industrial materializations, in law enforcement, the military, and private sectors. ∞
In the latest version, "KITT 3000" is a Mustang, quite a beautiful model, looking much more "muscle car" in this production, rather than the sleek Trans-Am of the KITT 2000, which still remains in first place for My taste, yet I would still not hesitate to operate either nonetheless. Instead of the uni-strobe coursing all the way from one end of the visor to the other, it is comprised of two side by side, which has a certain appeal, although the single strobe is more preferential in My observation, rather like a Cylon from Battlestar Galactica.
In its interactive interface, the only real difference seems to be that KITT has an accompanying visual screen which can now bring up images and graphs to accompany the information related. KITT can also morph into other models by modifying the molecular structure of the hulk surface.
KITT's disposition is quite Spockian, although [he] seems to eventually develop a sense of empathy.
Michael Knight
I have always found Michael Knight to be very Batman / Bruce Wayne like. Son of the original by the same name, Mike Jr. is also an Army Ranger {whereas Batman is a Ninja, and Knight Sr., a former Cop}, although every bit as carnal and roguish as The Hoff's characterization. At once a scoundrel and a gentleman, a lover and a fighter, displaying a perfect synthesis of the two.
Whether in a turtleneck, leather jacket, or suit and tie, Knight is a sharp dresser, certainly not displaying a lack of aesthetics. Besides being skilled in the technical processes of operating and driving KITT, he is well trained in the Martial Arts.
Knight and KITT compliment each other very well - for besides being partners, it could be analyzed that they both represent a Yin-Yang dynamic, both halves of the cerebrum fused into one entity; KITT is the analytical, while Knight being human, expresses the more passionate / emotional.
Overview
Knight Rider movie: When KITT's designer Charles Graiman's life is threatened, a new Knight Rider must be found, discovering him in Michael Knight's estranged son by the same name. To amend a debt and save his friend from some thugs, Michael leaves to gamble up the money owed in Sin City, but when his former girlfriend appears with KITT seeking his help while being stalked by Black Hawk agents, Knight instinctively steps forth, quickly acclimating to the situation, and to KITT. The chase ensues through dangerous canyons until the final confrontation at a Bates' Motel-like location, amidst a grove of weeping willows, where his mother meets her unfortunate demise. After outsmarting the Black Hawk agents, he is asked to assume his new role, at first declining, but after meeting his father Knight Sr. {The Hoff!} at the funeral, his 'destiny' seems clear, and Knight Rider rides again...
The plot is quite similar to that of the 'Knight of The Phoenix' pilot episode. However, I found this latest presentation to be about average, but definitely superior to the forgettable "Team Knight Rider" in My opinion, but as is often the case, sequels and remakes do not surpass the original. It does have a tendency to grow on one, however. We shall have to see what develops.
Addendum [Knerd Knotes]
The suspension of disbelief is a common experience when appreciating fictional presentations, however, viewing Knight Rider is a particularly stimulating experience for Me, for the simple fact that most of the environments filmed are recognized as personal haunting grounds, and otherwise very familiar locations. Which in My estimation, actually adds to the excitement of the viewing entertainment:
Knight & Knerd: First off, a glaring omission should be noted. One of My senseis Bill Ryusaki plays a lead role as one of the antagonists. The oriental gentleman with the mustache is uncredited. Also, the training area where Michael's confrontation / "test" takes place is actually an aerobics room at "Rocky's Racquet World", which featured not only racquetball courts, but said aerobics rooms, and a weightlifting / bodybuilding section on the second floor, where I attended gym for a time before relocating from the San Fernando Valley to the San Gabriel Valley, both of which are heavily filmed throughout this series.
Silent Knight: The highest concentration of familiar sights are spied herein. Most of the episode takes place in Covina, CA. I recognize very well the book store where I would purchase several "occult" books, the bank on the corner which Santa & the clowns robbed, and the Covina Theater where I saw many a film with girlfriends {most notably, "A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors", & 'New Nightmare'}. Not to mention that down one of the nearby streets was The Private Eye, a favorite music store I frequented quite often. That whole thoroughfare is quite an evocative contemplation. The flower shop is actually right across the street from the Fox Theatre {I particularly recall "Scream", and several others}, and The Tastee Freeze was also frequented from time to time. Also, the Police station depicted is actually The Covina Police Department. Though most of the rest of the series' natural environments take place on Mulholland Drive & sections of Griffith Park, the wilderness scenes in this episode appear to take place in Azusa Canyon, as the bridge KITT crosses is very recognizable.
Deadly Knightshade (guest starring Lance Burton): Many portions of this episode take place in Covina & surrounding areas as well. Especially notable is the scene where the hearse wrecks, right on the corner of North Hollywood Park, across the street from The N.H. branch Library {due North, which features a statue of Amelia Earhart} & Recreation Center, and the YMCA I attended across the street to the East of the camera angle, which can briefly be seen right before the collision takes place. That park is where campers gather for arts & crafts, games, and beginning and ending points for field trips.
A Nice Indecent Little Town: Is actually Covina and West Covina. It is amusing to watch how this town is depicted as some remote location. Even some of the side streets, structures {most notably, the Covina Bowl bowling alley, & the small park where Farmer's Market events are held on select weekends}, and parking lots are recognizable. The producers really did a fantastic job depicting downtown Covina as a remote township, and for the benefit of the viewing amusement, it may as well be.
Merchants of Death: Most notably the location where Knight picks up Camela is just across the street from St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church / School {K-9} in North Hollywood on the corner of Lankershim & Moorpark, where I attended Jr. High, can be clearly seen, and is only a few scant blocks from Universal Studios.
Diamonds Aren't A Girl's Best Friend: A portion of this was filmed at Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park {a Dracling haunt}, in the scene where Knight visits, who even climbs into one of the cars, by where the models are posing on Train '664'.
The Knight Files
Circus Knights [S3/E22]
Finally, Michael, Devon, and Bonnie have the opportunity to enjoy the Circus Major* that has come into town. Yet even at this seemingly innocuous entertainment, there's no rest for the Knight Rider. To the shock of the audience, a trapeze acrobat falls without a net. Seems that the Hoff-senses first detected something wrong, yet unfortunately, Devon stated that it was probably just part of the act. Turns out he was poisoned through the gripping powder. Then there's a mysterious fire on the lot, among other events, until Michael's suspicions lead him to an unscrupulous 'bankster', as it were {who eats peanuts like a squirrel}, who stands to profit from the circus' demise.
In need of a saving grace, "Turbo Man" makes a grand entrance with his flying "car-pet" that can replicate any sound, as well as perform just about any stunt; to the amusement of not only the audience and other performers, but the resident orangutang, whose vocalizations are voiced over by a chimp's chattering. Much to the chagrin of the bankster as well as the backstabbing "Bombo" the clown {he even has the word "bomb" in his name!}, it's a hit! Usually in mysteries, it's the butler, but in the circus world, look to the clown... he even strikes Devon at one point! And remember what happened to the last perpetrator who did that {The Ice Bandits}. Once in scanner's view, all stops are off!
Along with the clown, the lovely "Tiger" is in on it too, who juggles torches while on roller skates. Despite her fiery disposition, she is finally persuaded to reveal some incriminating information which helps the overall investigation, and thus, the tiger is sent to a cage.
Daredevil Turbo Man is almost blown to smithereens during the ring of Fire stunt, but the criminals responsible did not count on KITT's impenetrable shell, as usual, which only adds to the show as Michael recovers immediately with crowd fanfare. Finally, a flamethrower wielding clown car attacks Michael & KITT with a potent combination of napalm - the only thing that keep them both from combusting is the rate of speed! Despite this attempted immolation, the vehicle is decapitated, as seems to be an excellent method of disabling other vehicles, like the Juggernaut as well.
Again, finally for real this time, Michael, Devon, and Bonnie get to appreciate the inherent Magic of the circus. ∞
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* Probably Circus Vargas, which I would frequent as a Dracling. I do recall spotting a black T-Top on a couple of occasions.
Sky Knight [S4/E4]
While on her way to her sister's wedding, terrorists named 'The New Dawn' hijack the plane, taking Bonnie as the primary hostage after learning of her affiliation with FLAG. They are forced to land in the desert at a secret military base known as 'Big Sleep' containing a nuclear bomb. If demands for the release of 197 political prisoners are not met, the hostages are to be shot starting with Bonnie.
Upon learning of this news, Michael, Devon, and an engineer who worked on the government project mobilize to free her, but it is no easy task. Then it's off to plow through the veritable deadly obstacle course, but Zurich is already on the way out on a separate plane, with the only key that can stop and start the countdown, leaving the hostages, and even his own men doomed. With her computer programming skills, Bonnie attempts to hack the program, but to no avail, despite finally divulging the password, but there is no time left to disable the clock.The installation seems full proof by any remote means, so it is up to Michael and KITT to personally travel thereunto, despite the electrified fence, minefields and missiles.
Among the passengers is a boy named Nick with divorced parents {who looks like he could be John Denver's son} with a crush on Bonnie {Robby Rist; The Brady Bunch}. At one point, KITT ingeniously taps into Nick's remote controlled car, transmitting through Morse code important information of the situation. Also on board is a mother and son, who actually challenge the leader 'Zurich' for a brief, though amusing interchange.
Realizing that Michael and KITT are the only possibility for survival, KITT boards the plane like the Semi, where a confrontation with Zurich transpires. Now with the key, Michael & KITT parachute to 'mother earth', insert the key with only two seconds remaining.
Now saved, Bonnie and Nick, along with Michael and Devon, get to have that promised sundae, while his parents reconcile and await his arrival. ∞
Burial Ground [S4/E5]
In cooperation with the tribe and FLAG, an archeologist with his assistant discover a statue of the guardian of deceased warriors, but it seems that another group of Indians care nothing for their traditions, kidnapping them both, under the orders of oil baron Cyrus Oakes {Robert Pine, who will be recognized as Sgt. Joseph Getraer from CHiPs}.
While contemplating vacationing in Maui for some rest, relaxation, and of course... girls in bikinis, Michael receives that just about predictable call from Devon that yet another assignment arises. This time, off to find the archaeologist and daughter at the request of Susan of the resident tribe. Mike receives a less than cordial reception upon entering the reservation, headed by Jon Eagle, a brave who refuses to give in to Oakes' unscrupulous practices and attempted usurpation of the culture. He is in cahoots with a 'Dr. Thorne', and a couple of thug henchmen, one by the name of 'Snake', who has an altercation with Mike and Eagle. Aptly named, considering he tried to be rid of both Michael and Susan by dropping rattlesnakes on them in a cave {actually, the same one used as The Bat Cave in Griffith Park}, but both Mike's ingenuity and KITT's capabilities deliver them from certain death.
Along the way, KITT encounters a tribal elder convinced that KITT is the arrival of a wind god, who was said would return on a steed, but being the 80's, has returned as a car.
Ultimately, with the help of KITT {who utilizes the veritable 'Ninja' technique of smoke obfuscation}, Mike makes it out of a shack where Dr. Tanner & assistant Barbara were kept, and rocket out via 'SPM' {Super Pursuit Mode, or at 'maximum velocity' as 'Dr. Knightwood' would describe; 'Knight In Retreat' [S3/E20]}, to meet Oakes and his crew bent on demolishing the sacred burial ground. Eventually, Oakes meets Michael's fist {Hoffed!}, and the burial ground is preserved.*
In the end, the tribal elder bids farewell to KITT with a gesture of appreciation with a token of flora and fauna, and though she is betrothed to Eagle, Michael receives a thankful kiss from the lovely Susan. ∞
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* It would have been most amusing had Ponch & John, or at least lookalikes, showed up to arrest Oakes!
The Scent of Roses [S4/E12] preview
The grievous episode, which I have been known to skip, but watching it tonight, thought I would offer some commentary, which I had been meaning to do for awhile that I feel needs to be stated, which may be shared by others who appreciate this series.
Even as a virtual personified force of nature, it seems that Michael has to just about die to get a vacation - and even when he finally does get some time off while just being released from the hospital after being shot by some dirtbags, decides to quit FLAG, so Devon and Bonnie decide to being in Stevie to talk some sense into him as a preventative measure lest he do something additionally rash. Mike may actually have the opportunity to be happy for once - one of the things that his heart is set upon, to marry the woman that he actually loves. Then after what seems a few flitting moments, tragedy strikes*.
I've always thought that this episode is just wrong, even unnecessary and gratuitous. KITT should have been scanning the area, even while playing the wedding music, just in case and par the automatic course; and with so many FLAG agents present, there should have been 'guards' posted for security - JUST IN CASE. After all, they were almost blown up with the beach house, not to mention that the whole point of Stevie being in the secretive placement program in the first place is to guard she and Michael against such an event. It has always been a bit disconcerting that for some reason, FLAG's security has been rather lax, like when Garth kidnapped Devon and April, which needn't have ever happened either {understandably, to fulfill the plot, certain 'liberties' are taken to enhance drama, but still - FLAG being elite specialists after all}. Yet knowing this, some worm gets through.
In such a hypothetical situation, Mike and Stevie should have received escort agents all along akin to what certain politicians and 'celebrities' receive, to ensure their safety.
Michael deserves happiness, and as such, I would have rewritten the episode so that even if 'Durant' got through, KITT would have notified of a strange vehicle nearing containing three men with firearms entering the vicinity, at which point FLAG agents mobilize to apprehend and disarm the assailants; or even if they get away, the very knowledge that they attempted to kill Michael and Stevie would have been enough incentive to send Michael into a concerted personal mission to capture Durant, complete with a thorough pummeling. Michael and Stevie do marry, even if the ceremony is temporarily postponed, with added security as needed, then go off on a romantic honeymoon. Michael will eventually return to assignments refreshed, with additional motivation. ∞
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* It is in instances like these when the proposition of exchanging one life force for another would be ideal. In such a hypothetical situation, a criminal murderer's life spark given to the victim, thus, payment in full and justice done simultaneously. Literally one life for another with a much more satisfactory result.
Knerd Knotes
It is interesting to ponder that Catherine Hickland and David Hasselhoff were actually married to parallel their characters. Life imitating art? Publicity stunt? Additionally, Hickland would marry an actor with the very same name as Hasselhoff's KR character. Again, publicity stunt, or were these fictional characters so integrated into the actors' psyches, that they manifested the serendipity?
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Return To Cadiz
[S2/E5]
KITT and Michael take to the sea to find out who has been plundering sunken Spanish treasure.
While testing KITT's new Third Stage Aquatic Synthesizer hydroplaning feature [much to the chagrin of KITT himself, who loathes the ocean}, they stumble upon a diver strewn on the beach with the bends. While at the hospital, Michael meets his sister Jennifer Shell {co-owner of 'The Three Shells' seafood restaurant along with her brother and deceased father}, who has a very nice... smile.
Besides the diver's apparent irresponsibility and admonishment to 'never dive alone' {a basic diving rule}, there was nothing to suspect any sort of foul play, until a Spanish doubloon is collected amongst his affects. Seems he was actually diving for treasure, which was also being plundered by modern pirates.* One thief stealing from others, who had been hiding the ill-gotten gains in an enchanting little grotto named "Cadiz"** {after an ancient Mesopotamian city, as well as a city in Spain} lit by candlelight with collected golden relics all about.
When it seems this was no mere 'diving accident', Michael decides to investigate, receiving a confirmation of suspicions while attacked in the hospital room posing as the diver. Further investigation leads to a historian on the sea hunt, whose primary objective is locating "Lucinda" {a meso-american statuette comprised of pure gold} said to have been absconded by none other than Cortés. But when the deep sea excavation yields only some seaweed, starfish, and shells from the chest known to contain her, Captain Salty begins his land search among the brother's plunders only to find Jenny holding Lucinda, who is then kidnapped for the Fin Quest.
After a brief, previous recognizance visit, the trail leads to Captain Salty and crew on the 'Fin Quest'. Despite depth charges, KITT hydroplanes right up to the vessel {an effect apparently shot at Universal Studios' "parting sea" attraction} where they receive the "turbo fist" as it were, to rescue Jennifer and booty.
With the treasure collected for historical preservation, Michael bids an albeit temporary farewell to The Three Shells, gets his kiss, while April leans in under KITT's hood displaying her prime assets in preparation for the journey home.*** ∞
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* One who may be recognized as [name] from 'Knight Moves' [S1/E20] in the red Members Only jacket, nicknamed 'Captain Salty', who in this episode rather resembles Neptune.
** Would make a wonderful ritual chamber ideal for "The Call of Cthulhu" rite {The Satanic Rituals}; as well as a private quarters for clandestine meetings.
*** Along the way, seems KITT developed an appreciation for the maritime environment. In an amusing concluding conversation, he grew to enjoy using his aquatic synthesizer and began speaking in Pirate jargon now and then throughout the adventure. By the way, I'm sure KITT meant "motherly" in the best possible way [as in caring}, not 'matronly', which April most definitely is not, but reminiscent more or less like a sex doll.
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Return to Spechtreum
Synopses & commentary on various episodes, incrementally added
[Knight In Shining Armor]: Daughter of a world travelling archeologist grown up alone, even though placed in the finest schools and living opulently, but she'd rather have had the love & presence of her father instead. At one point Michael literally picks her up from a soiree to get her to safety, from being pursued by a teacher she trusted, until she finds out he just wants a treasure her father left her. The treasure turns out to be a magnificent underground crystal cave underneath "Devil's Basin" {Bronson Canyon, where the Batcave is!} that lights up opalescent with KITT's headlights. Looks rather like Superman's Fortress of Solitude headquarters.
{Hot chick with daddy issues? Yes please! I'm pleased to say that I have been the fortunate recipient of such affections!}
[Inside Out]: Mike goes undercover as a professional getaway driver to foil Col. Kincade's ill-gotten gains; to steal gold from a truck shipment, forming an elaborate plan. But first Mike has to incapacitate a "Mr. Dugan", whom he is posing as, getting a kick in the face for his troubles. He escapes using ingenuity with explosives. But eventually Mike gains the upper hand by obtaining a machine gun, thus delivering everyone to Devon.
[Episode features Lawrence Dobkin as Col. Kincaid, who hosted Mysteries From Beyond Earth]
[Knight Flight To Freedom]: Mike is sent to a rundown country to rescue the US ambassador whop was imprisoned during a coupe. Mike supports the resistance fighters, but it eventually betrayed by what he thought was a compatriot to the rebel leader, being sentenced to death by firing squad. But with the help of RC3 and a reporter lady that sort of looks like Sophia Loren, KITT is bedecked like a jalopy, concealed in the back of a disheveled truck, and has to traverse a lava river. RC3 has to fight a large goon and pose like one of the soldiers i order to get Mike pout of that predicament.
[Knight of A Thousand Devils]: Mike teams up with an attractive undercover Spanish officer {Anna-Lucia Cortez} to pursue the killer of a friend and fellow agent across the miserable desert in a secret race that goes from the US to mexico. There was a moment that should be taken full advantage of wherein 3 girls are stranded along the way. Please stay put! I'll be back!
[Knight Behind Bars]: Some crooked women's prison supervisors and guards plan to steal a crystal to amplify the potency of a laser weapon by using a cute little imprisoned gymnast to get though the laser security system and climbing obstacles. Bonnie actually has to submit herself as a prisoner for reconnaissance purposes, but is eventually set free by Mike and RC {who posed as a guard}.
[Knight Racer]: Mike does a favor for Bonnie's friend 'Elena' {hot blonde}, whose racing team is being sabotaged. He puts his life on the line when facing a professional hitman that lands him in the drink! KITT rescues him with the wench, then goes on to win the race for Team Mustard! Mike does a great triple move of kicking the weapon out of the hitman's hand, a punch to the midsection, and a right hook!
[Many Happy Returns]: Mike's birthday celebrations are interrupted when Devon asks him to go on a mission, and tempts him with a pretty girl. The episode starts at the Y Northollywood park. He almost shares a cupcake with her, with 2 candles, but ends up getting his present in the capture of the thieves [1 of whom is Kleis! / Dr. Bergstrom, Goliath Returns} of a military hovercraft prototype. I suppose he also gets a "gift" later on that night as well by DD {Double 'D' blondie} Howard! There is a nice toast with inside the mobile unit with the FLAG members & KITT at the end.
[The Wrong Crowd]: A motorbike gang of petty twits reminiscent of 21 Jump Street abscond with the FLAG mobile unit, while RC is literally thrown out of the cabin! Their intent was to sell whatever they can, but upon realizing this is a government unit, hack the computer system to steal some bank money with the help of an impressionable nerd, then attempt to gain control of an experimental remote drone vehicle called "the ferret" {rather gratuitous inclusion}, but looks & sounds more like the fly! When it gets out of control, Mike, KITT, Bonnie and the hacker work together to destroy the run-amok destructive bugger.
[Sensei Bill Ryusaki spotted in this one as a stunt double for Mike delivering a flying reverse spinkick!]
[Burial Ground]: Taking place at The Batcave in Bronson Canyon and in Acton for the reservation, 2 archæologists are kidnapped presumably for violating sacred burial grounds {which would be a truthful element, had they been insensitive or disrespectful to the traditions}, but ends up being a blanket excuse for a plot to remove certain natives from their land who do not cooperate with Cyrus Oaks {played by Robert Pine, CHiPs Sgt. Joseph Getrær}. Eagle kows, and will not have it, but encounters obstacles from the other natives on the take. Susan Christopher {Gina Gallego} helps Mike along the way, and a medicine man considers KITT the god of the wind returned as a car to fulfill a prophesy of a test.
[Sky Knight]: Plane passengers are held ransom for a gaggle of lowlife prisoners so that the 'leader' by a "new dawn movement" can start an incompetent army being held hostage in an impenetrable military nuclear instillation called "Deep Sleep". There are 2 nuns, a mama's boy, a tough granny, and Bonnie who faces execution being a FLAG agent. Mike has to go all the way up into the escape plane with KITT to personally retrieve the key that will stop the deadly nuclear explosion countdown in activation, where he left them all to die, because he became seemingly intimidated by Mike & KITT, knowing that his purposes would be thwarted. So he takes off!
On the way to and from the DS, MiKITT have to travel through a small one-horse towne with a crooked opportunistic 'sheriff' on the take who actually moves a parking meter around to make a few coins, and allege all sorts of false, exaggerated, scurrilous charges for some bucks and lend validity to his otherwise meaningless existence! [the sheriff played by Jack Starrett is also known as Lt. Barth from KITT the Cat, who reminds Me of emon!].
{Jinxboy is in this one as an infatuated douchebag, and seems an irrelevant character, who really does nothing}.
[Knight of The Juggernaut]: FLAG is undergoing a hostile takeover from within! Even by Wilton Knight's own daughter who wants to terminate the Knight Rider / KITT program! A difficult one to watch, considering Mike gets suspended, KITT gets demolished by the Juggernaut after having his protective coating dissolved by a solution sneakily administered by a streetwashing machine, planned by kung fu grip Phillip Nordstrom, whose also holding Devon hostage! While a surgically-altered impersonator takes his place! Mike finally makes it back to the mobile unit where he suspects the impostor, but KITT has to be repaired first!
Wilton's daughter finally finds out abut the subversive plot upon witnessing fake Devon secretly tinkering with some wires. Now she receives the hostage treatment along with the real Devon, as both are tied to underground piping awaiting explosion. Mike & KITT make it just in the nick of time with only a second to spare!
Here is the introduction of "Street Avenger" Reginald Cornelius III [RC3] cleaning the streets from wastrels and dregs where he can, with his trenchcoat, fedora, and rifle, somewhat like The Shadow. Who happens to have several stereotypical friends that are also mechanics who essentially resurrect KITT from the brink of destruction, and some new features as well, under Bonnie's direction, his overall capabilities are increased with an estimated 40-60%, including Super Pursuit Mode! KITT rocket! With this increased speed, he can arrive at a scene in 1/4 of the time!
Kungfu grip unleashes the juggernaut like a mechanical rhinoceros, outmaneuvering the Juggernaut enough to send it careening into a gastanker! False Devon is apprehended along with kungfu grip after a chase with the small escape plane!
[Knightstrike]: Judy Landers plays a hitchhiking model named 'Sheila' at a firearms convention who joins Mike to capture gunrunners, thieves who stole laser rifles from The Police. Richard Herd {Karl Malden doppelganger} plays the leader.
[Trivia: She also plays amnesiac socialite 'Micki' in Forget Me Not [S1/E13].
[Knight & Knerd]: Sensei Bill Ryusaki {Ryu Dojo Karate, one of My dojos} goes unaccredited in this one, even though he pays a major role; and the Takishi demonstrations at Rocky's! My gym at the time! It's evocative seeing the orange and brown stripes motif, and the church across the street!
[10 Wheel Trouble]: Mike investigates a murdered trucker who went off a cliff after failing breaks, right after an altercation. The family seeks the aid of FLAG, but who don't trust Mike one iota at first, until he proves to them that he's there to help. So Ichabod crane there turns out to be the culprit along with his rotten boss giving him orders to take over the trucking company.
[Knightlines]: Mike goes undercover by posing as a construction worker prole to find out what happened to a worker who fell off the building. Leading him to his grieving widow, a gorgeous blonde who wants revenge! Mike eventually deciphers those responsible, and deals with them in the construction yard, both by taking out a control booth, and KITT dumping liquid concrete on the other!
[Trivia: This looks like it took place at that building that was seemingly perpetually under construction near St. Charles - always with that looming crane. In one scene you can actually see the black Universal Building in the background!]
[Buyout]: An earlier appearance by the Juggernaut here, equipped with armor piercing bullets and missiles! Mike testdrives a bulletproof limo for a crooked businessman who tries to bake him in a thermal room! To be rescued by KITT and a lady. Another lady on the take, and crime partner with the businessman tries to tempt him with 1/2 the ill-gotten haul, but ends up going to prison.
[Junkyardog]: KITT gets dumped into an acid pit by a bulldozer! He has to be completely rebuilt [then again in Knight of The Drones}, but he always comes back better, stronger, faster... like the Bionic Man!
He eventually turns the tables! While the loophole and redtape riding a-hole that did it will now feel the side of the law that cuts! He ends up getting exposed on the cover of a national magazine, with his associations with a professional arsonist burning businesses for the insurance money, and illegally dumping deadly toxic chemicals that kills animals, all receiving turbo justice! Boy: "Yeah!"
Oddly, I always thought this title was referring to the other junkyard episode [Blindspot] where KITT almost gets compacted. But this also makes complete sense - the rotten proprietor is the junkyard dog, while the junkcaryard owner could also be referred to as such.
[Knight By A Nose]: Mike has to see what's really going on when a blind girl's horse mysteriously falls dead on the racing field, turns out it was merely drugged to look dead, and falsely shot with fake bullets, all to give over to a diaperhead who pays big bucks so that her false "friend" with the unlikely name of 'Tommy Lee' can pay his gambling debts to a drugpin {who also plays a police sergeant in Final Verdict}. Lee sounds and looks like Underwear King Normanmeyer from the Addams Family cartoon!
[Custom Made Killer]: An assassin with a killer car goes about pushing people off cliffs, into trains, making impressively clean getaways when the paint melts right off the car by going through a carwash, even avoiding Mike & KITT for awhile. But when he turns on Mike & KITT, is when his real trouble starts, when KITT does an excellent maneuver while being rammed from behind, essentially then becoming the rammer! Didn't even need Turbo Boost! The assassin ends up on the edge of a cliff at what appears to be Mulholland Drive, with KITT edging him off; well, he sings like a canary, as it were, giving all the recorded evidence needed to then prosecute a known criminal {who was also just recently in Bionic Woman episode 'Biofeedback'!}. The killer wearing a helmet, especially the ending scene with the sunset in the background really gave it an MTV / HEAVY METAL effect!
[Knight of The Chameleon]: Mike has to try to prevent a camouflage expert from securing missiles, the father of a girl who looks like the Thompson Twins {whose even a dancer, singer}, who even manages to attain a levitation backpack jet! Great character, too bad he's a criminal. He's like a synthesis between 007 & Inspector Gadget! Donald Gibb is in this one as well {who played 'Ray Jackson' in Bloodsport} as the chameleon's henchman.
[Knight In Disgrace]: Mike has to clear his name after a pusher plants cocaine in his pocket. He and Devin devise a master plan to fool Kung Fu grip and goon {also in Redemption of A Champion}, but it is rather disturbing in the meantime, like when Devin is "shot" as they put on an act to thwart the criminals.
[The Rotten Apples]: Features a very lovely, but seemingly gratuitous character named "Marilyn" who ends up getting on a bus to wherever it's going. Then Mike has to rescue some inner-city kids from redneck shenanigans {juvies/miscreants/brats}. One of them cut the brake fluid line, sending the bus down a doomed path down the twisting roadways. KITT ends up microlocking the brakes, but Mike has to board to keep the wheels steady, otherwise they could have gone over the cliffs!
[KITT vs KARR]: Some guy in a hairshirt wearing a tanktop with all that pubic hair bursting out like hay - is always a disturbing display. Butt at least there's a nice looksie at the girl's smooth posterior when she ascends a hill after just being let out of the cab by KARR, right before the battle!
[Halloween Knight]: Always a pleasure to watch this Halloween episode, the scenes at the Psycho House {at Universal}, the references to Norman {wearing a jack o'lantern headmask reminiscent of Halloween 3}, the Cylon Centurion {from which inspiration for KITT's visor was derived} with an awful cardboard sword {I think a Cylon with a darksaber would be awesome!}, and the hellographic projector displaying the goblin demon! Not to mention The lovely redheaded Witch, and when KITT was actually parked within a pentagram!
[The Ice Bandits]: Watched in correlation with DS movies. Back & forth, but primarily remained with DS. Monks waste their time when they could be indulging in sumptuous pleasures, but maybe they like that repressive homo environment? I still want a portrait of Mike for the entertainment area, as well as that KITT sculpture from Blind Spot!
[Night of The Drones [1]]: Takes place in San Francisco, always look at the background scenes to see if The Black House is anywhere to be witnessed.
The Barbarian Brothers play a couple of assholes who brutalize an old man shopkeep, then even one of the criminal participants' girlfriends! And otherwise just hang around lifting weights. Mike gets into an altercation with the eggroll brothers in China town.
[Night of The Drones [2]]. Mike has a runin with The Barbarian Brothers, doing no damage whatsoever, and takes a flying leap off a wall, while romancing the lady. KITT takes a missile into the exhaust {ironic considering it's SF}, rendering him inoperable to have to be fully repaired.
[Big Iron]: It's still a trip to see the actor who played the priest in DEMONOID herein. So this guy's wife is a backstabbing megaslut f'ing her husband's competitor, and ends up using all his money to keep her comfortable and having parties.
[Speed Demons]: KITT joins the dirtbike frey and uses ski mode in this one, which is always an enjoyable spectacle. And Devin breaks out a WW2 motorbike he cracks a wheelie on, to be turboboosted over.
[Race For Life]: A little girl has bone marrow cancer or some such, so Mike has to go find a donor in a gang in East LA. It's The Vengadores vs. The Conquistadores! After some problems avoiding and fielding pests, as well as weather issues, they make it to the hospital where she receives the operation, and recovers nicely. KITT puts on an amusing display for her at the end in celebration of her recuperation.
Amusingly, the picture is sharp enough to see the details of the freckles on her face, but also the pubic hairs on Michael's chest!
[White Line Warriors]: A crooked cop on the take gets busted on the radio! Seems he was taking part in a burglary ring striking every time the song "Walls Tumbling Down" is played.
[Silent Knight]: Takes place all over downtown Covina, and the flower shop across the street from the Fox Theater and the Tastee Freeze!
[Knightmares]: Mike loses his memory due to an altercation with a real asshole named "Frank" {as in 'dick'}, being shot and bumping his head over at Hanson Dam, taking him all over the valley to find a semblance of himself, until a pinch faced girl like a pomeranian provides him with a clue, which connects Frank an angry artist, taking Mike back to the dam with incremental flashbacks as he heals.
In a sort of classic villain and damsel dynamic, Frank puts "Cara Caulfield" {'face' in spinach - Cara mia!; I'd know what I'd like to do to her cara! Morticia too!}. Mike & KITT save her from being drowned in a watertank by striking a precise portion upon the adjacent wall.
[Ring of Fire]: This is like KITT being sent to Dagobah, halfway expecting Yoda to come out if a treestump. I also kept thinking "Use The Force, Michael... use The Force!"
This takes place in Louisiana, with "the dirty French", who have a penchant for consuming scraps and revolting soups made out of the filthy swamps themselves! Quite honestly, with the exception of the judge, the people seem atrocious and the environment completely miserable. All hot & muggy, mudcaked, sweaty, bilgy.
But that little gal "Leilah" is a cutie, and at one point seeing her at quite an angles was very gratifying!
[Soul Survivor]: Horsefaced lady seduces a dopey computer wizkid into removing KITT's central processor & remote controlling his frame in order to rob an armored car. The so-called "soul" is examined as really being the personality. After acquiring transport {a hilariously broken-down jalopy that barely runs} from a hayseed gomer.
[Custom KITT]: Dr. Bombay! Dr. Bombay! Your car is on the way! Mike's got 2 women going after him in this one!
[BIG IRON, Junkyard Dog]: KITT perseveres through dire straights on both occasions, from being buried in gravel & dirt, to launching out of a car crusher! Interesting to note that actor Stuart Whitman, who plays Stuart Sanderson, one of the bosses in Big Iron, also plays the priest in the film Demonoid.
[My Bother's Keeper]: Hot daughter I'd love to F! The episode is very 'the fugitive'-like.
[Chariot of Gold]: MENSA-like Members of a secretive technological thieving ring try to use KITT to gain ill-gotten funds, brainwashing Bonnie in the process, who at one point actually points a gun at Michael! Of course, despite attempts to manipulate KITT, he eventually comes to his AI computerized senses to rejoin Michael as his proper driver. Seems that even intelligent people sometimes have to reminded or disciplined.
[Slamming Sammy's Stunt show!]: KITT is defaced with those awful stickers, and some jealous asshole on the take tried to sabotage Mike with a jimmy, but it caught, and he prevails. Also foiled another jerk who tried to blow up the place and spoil the show!
[Redemption of A Champion]: Don King looks like a crazy orangutan, and the boxers like gorillas. Part of this mission takes place at Hanson dam, which reminds Me of the time I went there with Rick to fish for tadpoles, where we talked briefly to a dirty old man who said that we should leave there.
[Deadly Knightshade]: It is always evocatively thrilling to see the Dracling's haunting grounds! The Northollywood Tujunga Y, park, & dojo areas.
[Knight & Knerd]: Sensei Bill Ryusaki {Ryu Dojo Karate, one of My dojos} goes unaccredited in this one, even though he pays a major role; and the Takishi demonstrations at Rocky's! My gym at the time! It's a trip seeing the orange and brown stripes motif, and the church across the street!
[10 Wheel Trouble]: Mike investigates a murdered trucker who went off a cliff after failing breaks, right after an altercation. The family seeks the aid of FLAG, but who don't trust Mike one iota at first, until he proves to them that he's there to help. So Ichabod crane there turns out to be the culprit along with his rotten boss giving him orders to take over the trucking company.
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