Irv Pearlberg wrote this episode, and with lots of imagination. Irv was the genius behind MAN FROM UNCLE in the 60s.
THE HERO is an excellent character study, all about the son (Dean Stockwell) of a general (Morgan Woodward) accused of killing a gang leader. The perfect storm finds him waking up, after being attacked, and the dead man beside him. How convenient. An old storyline, also used on MANNIX , but exceptionally done.
10 Stars.
The acting is spot on, especially Dean Stockwell, who had been working in movies and tv since he was nine years old ( SONG OF THE THIN MAN as William Powell and Myrna Loy's son). Series regular Lee Purcell returns, best playing desperate young women on the run.
Of honorable mention is Morgan Woodward, who worked with William Conrad on scores of westerns at Warner Bros/ABC TV such as TEMPLE HOUSTON, which Conrad produced and directed. Morgan was inducted in the Hall of Fame for western performers.
He appeared in 55 episodes of DALLAS. He was working everywhere, and thanks to Bill Conrad for getting him on the show. What a treat.
To note; the opening chase scene was filmed at the historic train museum near Griffith Park, not far from Warner Bros. It's still around with all the neat old choo choo's. A great place for the entire family.
Not to be missed. SEASON 5, EPISODE 12 Nov 1975 Happy Thanksgiving. Box set contains 7 dvds, a collectors item.