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Ving Rhames in "Kojak"
courtesy of the USA Network
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"Kojak" (The USA Network)
Remember the old TV series "Kojak" that starred Telly Savalas? Well it has been remade and updated in a new series of the same name, but this time starring Ving Rhames as Theo Kojak, the New York Police Lieutenant. The character still likes the taste of lollipops but all other similarities are gone.
In the premiere episode Kojak is after a serial killer. This man targets prostitutes who have children. Kojak is determined to hunt the killer down and uses all the resources available to him. This includes his best friend and boss, Captain Frank McNeil (Chazz Palminteri), and Assistant District Attorney Carmen Warrick (Roselyn Sanchez).
As the viewer watches Kojak work the case, interest in him as a person grows. And for this show to be successful you have to be interested in his character both on and off the job. Carmen is supposed to be his love interest but you get little evidence of that relationship in the first episode. Hopefully the attractive Sanchez will play a bigger role in upcoming storylines.
Rhames is a charismatic actor. He is big and forceful and this makes him ideal for the role of Kojak. He is also able to show the tender side of the man, and that is another plus. But one word of advice - lose the dorky hats. They just don't go with the suave wardrobe he has.
The USA Network could have a winner in this series. The first story was interesting, and all the actors have talent and charm. Rhames can handle the spotlight and carry the main load on his wide shoulders.
Even if you never saw the original Kojak" series, give this new version a try. Rhames and company should be able to keep you entertained week after week.
"Kojak" premieres on the USA Network Friday, March 25 at 9PM, and will be seen weekly after that on Sundays at 10PM. |
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©2005 Jackie K. Cooper |
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