Although the players in the "Final Ransom" episode approach their work in fine fashion, particularly the ever-dependable and despicable villain Gary Lockwood and the sweet little girl Stacey Baldwin, the story, which is centered around a long-delayed kidnapping and ransom demand, is an unusually bleak story that leaves one feeling depressed and possibly even devoid of hope. Essentially there are no winners and most of the principals come out worse for wear. It can be unsettling for a viewer when an episode of a dramatic TV series features a targeted and victimized child as the centerpiece of the action.
The locales include a scenic residential enclave in an idyllic mountainous oak and deciduous woodland, which serves to make the ending even more stark and disturbing. As mentioned by another reviewer, Barnaby's parting commentary is a tad difficult to fathom and maybe too rosy, but at least he didn't utter it to any of the adversely affected parties.
Although there are some developments in the story that are not totally logical and practical, the episode is well-played, well-directed, and moves swiftly.
Beyond that, let me add that Lt. Biddle is a curiosity, seemingly even having a split personality. Maybe because he is just plain overworked; but Biddle seems to be a pal who is wholly supportive of Barnaby's visits and requests for help in some episodes, and in others expresses irritation, exasperation, and even contempt for our hero.
For this one, at least, watch at the risk of finishing up just a little morose.
The locales include a scenic residential enclave in an idyllic mountainous oak and deciduous woodland, which serves to make the ending even more stark and disturbing. As mentioned by another reviewer, Barnaby's parting commentary is a tad difficult to fathom and maybe too rosy, but at least he didn't utter it to any of the adversely affected parties.
Although there are some developments in the story that are not totally logical and practical, the episode is well-played, well-directed, and moves swiftly.
Beyond that, let me add that Lt. Biddle is a curiosity, seemingly even having a split personality. Maybe because he is just plain overworked; but Biddle seems to be a pal who is wholly supportive of Barnaby's visits and requests for help in some episodes, and in others expresses irritation, exasperation, and even contempt for our hero.
For this one, at least, watch at the risk of finishing up just a little morose.