Enos – 1980
June 18, 2024
Murder She Wrote – Pilot
October 22, 2024
This week we are talking about a short-live crime/P.I. show called Tenspeed and Brown Show. It starred Jeff Goldlum (yes, him) and Ben Vereen as a young stock broker and a con-man, in that order. They are brought together after Tenspeed (Vereen) steals some money out of a bank that was put there by a mobster who stole it from a Nazi. It is a bit confusing. Check it out!
The late 1970s and early 1980s were a golden era for television, with a plethora of groundbreaking shows that captivated audiences across the nation. Amidst this vibrant landscape emerged Tenspeed and Brown Shoe, a unique blend of comedy and detective drama that introduced viewers to one of the most unconventional detective pairings in TV history. The pilot episode, aptly titled “Partners in Crime,” set the stage for what promised to be an entertaining journey of crime-solving with a twist.
Setting the Scene
Partners in Crime opens in the bustling streets of Los Angeles, a city known for its glitz, glamour, and, inevitably, its share of criminal activities. The episode introduces us to the two main characters: E.L. “Tenspeed” Turner, portrayed by the charismatic Ben Vereen, and Lionel “Brown Shoe” Whitney, brought to life by the ever-quirky Jeff Goldblum. The stage is set for an unlikely partnership that contrasts sharply with the typical detective duos of the time.
Introducing Tenspeed Turner
E.L. Turner, or Tenspeed as he’s affectionately known, is a fast-talking con man with a knack for getting out of tricky situations. The pilot begins with Tenspeed just released from prison, trying to reintegrate into society and steer clear of his old ways. His street-smart demeanor and sharp wit make him both a formidable presence and a source of constant humor. Tenspeed’s character is immediately likable, despite his morally ambiguous background, thanks to Vereen’s magnetic performance that balances charm with a hint of vulnerability.
Introducing Lionel Whitney
In stark contrast stands Lionel “Brown Shoe” Whitney, an accountant-turned-private detective with big dreams and an even bigger heart. Lionel is an idealistic soul who idolizes classic hardboiled detectives from dime-store novels, often emulating their style and methods in his own detective work. Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of Lionel is nothing short of brilliant, infusing the character with a delightful mix of naivety and determination. Lionel’s earnestness and slightly bumbling nature provide a perfect foil to Tenspeed’s slick and streetwise persona.
The Inciting Incident
The pilot’s inciting incident occurs when Tenspeed, in an attempt to go straight, stumbles upon a case that he can’t ignore. While trying to find legitimate work, he witnesses a suspicious exchange in a dimly lit alleyway involving a local businessman, Mr. Harold Jenkins, and a mysterious figure known only as “The Shadow.” Sensing an opportunity to prove his newfound integrity, Tenspeed decides to investigate further, inadvertently crossing paths with Lionel Whitney.
Lionel, who is also on the trail of “The Shadow,” is intrigued by Tenspeed’s involvement in the case. Despite their contrasting backgrounds, the two men realize that their combined skills could be the key to unraveling the mystery. This realization sets the foundation for their partnership, blending Tenspeed’s street smarts with Lionel’s methodical approach to detective work.
The First Case: Unmasking The Shadow
“Partners in Crime” follows Tenspeed and Brown Shoe as they delve into the shady dealings surrounding Mr. Jenkins. Their investigation leads them through a maze of deceit, uncovering a web of corruption that threatens to entangle both of them. The pilot masterfully balances comedic moments with suspenseful twists, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.
One of the standout scenes in the episode is when Tenspeed and Lionel attend a high-stakes poker game hosted by Jenkins. Tenspeed’s ability to read people and manipulate situations comes into play as he navigates the tense atmosphere, while Lionel’s awkward yet sincere attempts to blend in add a layer of humor. Their combined efforts reveal crucial information about The Shadow’s true identity, pushing the investigation forward.
Character Dynamics and Chemistry
The heart of Tenspeed and Brown Shoe lies in the dynamic between its two leads. Tenspeed’s streetwise cynicism contrasts beautifully with Lionel’s idealistic optimism, creating a compelling and entertaining partnership. Their interactions are filled with witty banter, mutual respect, and occasional clashes, highlighting their differing approaches to solving crimes.
Ben Vereen and Jeff Goldblum bring an undeniable chemistry to their roles, making their characters’ friendship both believable and endearing. Tenspeed often finds himself rescuing Lionel from the consequences of his well-intentioned but misguided actions, while Lionel inspires Tenspeed to maintain his commitment to going straight. This balance of support and conflict adds depth to their characters and keeps the audience invested in their journey.
Supporting Characters and Subplots
The pilot also introduces a few key supporting characters who add richness to the narrative. Detective Sarah Mitchell, portrayed by the talented Linda Purl, is introduced as a tough, no-nonsense cop who becomes both an ally and a skeptic of the duo’s unconventional methods. Her interactions with Tenspeed and Lionel add another layer of tension and camaraderie to the story.
Another notable character is Mrs. Eleanor Jenkins, Harold Jenkins’ estranged wife, played by the graceful Patricia Barry. Her mysterious past and strained relationship with her husband hint at deeper family secrets that could potentially complicate the main plot. These subplots not only provide additional intrigue but also help in fleshing out the primary storyline, making the pilot a well-rounded and engaging episode.
Themes and Tone
Partners in Crime explores themes of redemption, friendship, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. Tenspeed’s journey from con man to detective embodies the theme of personal transformation, while Lionel’s unwavering belief in justice and order highlights the importance of ideals in a morally complex world.
The tone of the pilot strikes a perfect balance between lighthearted humor and serious detective work. The show’s ability to seamlessly blend these elements sets it apart from other detective series of the time, offering viewers a refreshing take on the genre. The humorous exchanges between Tenspeed and Lionel provide comic relief, while the suspenseful investigation keeps the stakes high and the audience on the edge of their seats.
Visual and Directorial Style
The pilot episode showcases a vibrant and dynamic visual style that complements the show’s eclectic tone. The use of Los Angeles’ iconic locations adds authenticity to the setting, while the creative camera angles and lighting enhance the storytelling. The direction by Stephen J. Cannell, known for his work on other successful TV series, brings a polished and engaging feel to the episode.
Action sequences are choreographed with precision, ensuring that the comedic and dramatic elements are well-integrated. Whether it’s a high-speed chase through the city streets or a tense confrontation in a smoky bar, the pilot delivers visually captivating scenes that keep viewers entertained.
Music and Soundtrack
The music in Tenspeed and Brown Shoe plays a significant role in setting the mood and enhancing the overall experience. The pilot features a catchy, upbeat theme song that immediately grabs the audience’s attention and becomes synonymous with the show’s energetic vibe. Throughout the episode, the soundtrack effectively underscores both the comedic and suspenseful moments, adding depth to the narrative without overpowering it.
Reception and Impact
Upon its release, the pilot episode of Tenspeed and Brown Shoe received a mix of praise and criticism. Critics lauded the performances of Ben Vereen and Jeff Goldblum, highlighting their chemistry and the fresh dynamic they brought to the detective genre. The show’s unique blend of humor and drama was appreciated for breaking away from the more formulaic detective series of the time.
However, some critics felt that the show struggled to find a consistent tone, oscillating between slapstick comedy and serious crime-solving. Despite these mixed reviews, the pilot successfully established the foundation for what could have been a long-running series, offering a glimpse into the potential of the partnership between Tenspeed and Brown Shoe.
Legacy of the Pilot Episode
Although Tenspeed and Brown Shoe only lasted for one season, the pilot episode remains a memorable entry in the annals of 1980s television. It showcased the talents of its leads, Ben Vereen and Jeff Goldblum, both of whom would go on to have illustrious careers in film and television. The pilot’s innovative approach to the detective genre, combining humor with traditional crime-solving, paved the way for future shows that sought to blend different genres and character dynamics.
For fans of classic television, the pilot episode of Tenspeed and Brown Shoe stands as a testament to the creative experimentation of the era. It embodies the spirit of the 1980s TV landscape, where bold ideas and unconventional pairings were encouraged, resulting in a diverse array of programming that continues to influence contemporary television today.
Partners in Crime
Partners in Crime, the pilot episode of Tenspeed and Brown Shoe, introduced audiences to a unique and engaging detective duo whose contrasting personalities and complementary skills set them apart from their contemporaries. The episode effectively blended humor, drama, and suspense, creating a captivating narrative that showcased the strengths of its leads. While the show may not have achieved long-term success, the pilot remains a cherished piece of television history, celebrated for its innovative approach and the memorable performances of Ben Vereen and Jeff Goldblum.
As Tenspeed and Brown Shoe navigated the competitive landscape of 1980s television, the pilot episode served as a shining example of what the series had to offer. Its legacy lives on through the fond memories of its fans and the continued appreciation of its contributions to the detective genre. For those who fondly remember the show or are discovering it for the first time, “Partners in Crime” offers a delightful glimpse into the beginnings of an unlikely yet beloved detective partnership.
