From "Universal" studios, "Knight Rider" was amongst the last American t.v show of its kind. To emphasise this, "Knight Rider" came at a time in the 1980s when American television was changing and in a big way. Shows like "Miami Vice" and to a certain extent "The Equalizer" represented a more violent and gritty kind of entertainment. The above series contains violence that was still of a more "comic strip" variety, there were no swear words and sexual content was minimal. That is all very well and at least "Knight Rider" can be enjoyed by younger viewers in particular. However, the tone of the show meant that it resembled ones from the 1970s where the same kind of content still applied. I like "Knight Rider" for the shows gimmick of a highly advanced car (naturally), for the music, the stories and for the nostalgia. The feature length pilot episode really sets up the shows premise effectively. In a previous life, a police officer called Michael Long is shot during an undercover operation. The bullet is deflected by a metal plate which is inserted into his skull. Now disfigured, he comes into contact with a multi millionaire named Knight who is the inventor of a highly advanced car called "K.I.T.T." Knight is dying and hasn't much time. He lives long enough to see the result of Michael Long having had plastic surgery (now David Hasslehoff). The car is complete and ready. Knight succumbs to his illness in quite a touching scene and leaves the car to Michael Long, now re-named Michael Knight. He seeks those who shot him and exacts revenge in a thrilling 90 minute episode. Everything clicked into place and the shows success was assured. In all honesty, the best episodes are from seasons 1 and 3. Edward Mulhare gives excellent support as Michael Knight's boss, Devon Miles. David Hasslehoff fits the bill in the lead but in some ways, the K.I.T.T car is the star of the show. It is given much personality, courtesy of William Daniels. The car and Knight strike up a lasting friendship and the car's built-in voice circuits, give the impression of a real conversation taking place. Speaking of "K.I.T.T," the car is equipped with all sorts of gadgets and weapons. It is truly one of a kind. The critics weren't all that complimentary to "Knight Rider" but who cares? The public couldn't get enough and the show lasted 4 seasons and nearly 100 episodes. It is a well made show and part of my childhood was spent enjoying the latest crime-fighting by Michael Knight and his unique car.
Review of Knight Rider
