David Janssen, much like Richard Crenna or Robert Wagner, was an actor ideally suited for the small screen. His stern, quiet authority and low-key personality made him a great TV detective, but in theatrical films like "Warning Shot", his hard-boiled, ambling charm didn't really come through. This '60s crime thriller involves an L.A. stakeout which goes awry for police sergeant Janssen after he shoots a nervous doctor. Janssen swears the doc pulled a gun, yet all the evidence points to the contrary. From Whit Masterson's book "711--Officer Needs Help", this must have looked awfully bland in theaters, what with a cheesy production and a tame, late-night-TV supporting cast which includes Stefanie Powers, Carroll O'Connor, Keenan Wynn, and Joan Collins. Despite these names, there's not a trace of camp value to be savored, mostly because the filmmakers have not a shred of good, dark humor. *1/2 from ****
Review of Warning Shot
