The Dukes of Hazzard – Deputy Dukes
July 23, 2019
Emergency!
August 20, 2019
The Nazis are planning to steal the plates to make $2 bills so the can tank the economy. Can Wonder Woman stop them in time? Will she make Steve look good again or take the credit for solving it? Listen to find out.
Follow us on Twitter @iused2watchthis
Email us at: mikes@iusedtowatchthis.com and mikef@iusedtowatchthis.com
A New Counterfeit Threat
The episode begins with an alarming situation unfolding in Washington, D.C. The U.S. Treasury Department discovers a concerning issue—an influx of counterfeit two-dollar bills has surfaced, threatening the nation’s economy. These forgeries are so precise that they are nearly indistinguishable from authentic currency, raising panic and creating a dire need for immediate action.
Diana Prince, working as a secretary for the Inter-Agency Defense Command (IADC), is quickly drawn into the case. Her position at the IADC grants her insight into the government’s highest-level investigations and secret missions. This connection soon brings her into the loop of a covert operation to uncover the mastermind behind this counterfeiting scheme.
The Appearance of Wonder Woman
As the investigation proceeds, it becomes apparent that a mere government inquiry will not be enough to tackle the criminal genius behind the operation. Diana discreetly transitions into her superhero persona, Wonder Woman. Using her enhanced senses, superhuman strength, and the iconic Lasso of Truth, Wonder Woman starts piecing together the fragments of the plot.
Her first lead comes when she encounters a suspicious character named Harold Farnum, a small-time hustler known for his dealings in dubious circles. Farnum’s involvement in counterfeiting rings places him on the authorities’ radar, and Diana’s intuition tells her that he might hold valuable information.
The Mastermind Revealed: The Elusive Cagliostro
Wonder Woman’s investigation unveils that the counterfeit operation is not just a low-level scam but is being orchestrated by a figure shrouded in mystery—Cagliostro. This villain is portrayed as a cunning and well-equipped criminal with a keen interest in financial deception and a history steeped in trickery. Cagliostro’s ability to evade law enforcement makes him a formidable foe, which adds layers of suspense and urgency to Wonder Woman’s mission.
Cagliostro’s ultimate plan involves flooding the economy with counterfeit currency, destabilizing financial markets, and creating chaos that would allow him to seize power. The two-dollar bill, a lesser-used but significant form of currency, becomes his vehicle for executing this plot, ensuring minimal immediate suspicion and maximum disruption.
The Role of Technology and Deception
A key highlight of this episode is the emphasis on technology and innovation, a recurring theme in Wonder Woman. The show’s depiction of 1970s-era high-tech gadgets feels both nostalgic and inventive. Cagliostro uses advanced printing techniques that challenge even the most modern of anti-counterfeiting measures of the time, showcasing the meticulous planning behind his operation.
Wonder Woman faces significant obstacles while trying to break into Cagliostro’s operation. His hideout, hidden in an inconspicuous location, is guarded with sophisticated surveillance systems and traps designed to keep intruders out. Here, the writers effectively use tension and suspense as Wonder Woman navigates the maze of dangers and puzzles before confronting Cagliostro’s henchmen.
The Power of the Lasso of Truth
One of the most pivotal moments in this episode is Wonder Woman’s use of the Lasso of Truth. This iconic tool is not just a weapon but an instrument of justice that embodies her unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. When Farnum is cornered and tied with the Lasso, he reluctantly admits to working with Cagliostro and divulges the next phase of the plan—a mass distribution of counterfeit bills set to take place during a public event.
This scene serves as a testament to Wonder Woman’s resolve and ability to extract crucial information without resorting to unnecessary violence, emphasizing her dual role as both a warrior and a protector.
The Final Showdown: Wonder Woman’s Tactical Brilliance
The climax of “Last of the Two Dollar Bills” showcases Wonder Woman’s blend of strategic thinking and physical prowess. With the IADC on standby, she infiltrates the event, which Cagliostro plans to use as a platform for distributing the fake currency. Disguised and moving seamlessly among the crowd, Wonder Woman waits for the opportune moment to confront the villain and his accomplices.
When the plan is set in motion and counterfeit bills start circulating, Wonder Woman springs into action. A thrilling fight sequence ensues as she faces off against Cagliostro’s hired muscle. The choreography of these scenes highlights Lynda Carter’s iconic portrayal of the character—graceful yet strong, embodying the spirit of justice.
After neutralizing the henchmen, Wonder Woman finally confronts Cagliostro. A battle of wits and strength unfolds, culminating in a dramatic moment where she manages to restrain him with the Lasso of Truth. Cagliostro, under the influence of the Lasso, confesses to his plot, and the authorities take him into custody. The counterfeit scheme is dismantled, and the integrity of the U.S. currency is preserved.
Themes and Significance
The episode is a classic example of Wonder Woman’s approach to blending action with underlying themes of truth, justice, and the fight against corruption. “Last of the Two Dollar Bills” is not just about Wonder Woman stopping a financial crime; it’s about her role as a moral compass in a world fraught with deception and greed. The use of the Lasso of Truth is symbolic of the show’s deeper message—truth will always outshine even the most well-crafted lies.
This episode also reflects the 1970s cultural fascination with espionage, covert operations, and advanced technology. The portrayal of counterfeiting as a significant threat to national security speaks to the era’s fears surrounding economic instability and the influence of shadowy figures seeking to disrupt society.
Iconic Performance by Lynda Carter
Lynda Carter’s portrayal in this episode reinforces why her interpretation of Wonder Woman became iconic. She embodies strength, intelligence, and compassion throughout her performance, making Diana Prince a relatable and formidable hero. Carter’s ability to balance the character’s dual nature—assertive as Wonder Woman and methodical as Diana Prince—adds depth to the story and keeps the audience engaged.
Lasting Impact of the Episode
“Last of the Two Dollar Bills” remains memorable for its unique storyline and the suspenseful depiction of counterfeiting on a grand scale. It’s a testament to the Wonder Woman series’ knack for tackling diverse challenges, ranging from supernatural threats to human greed. Fans of the series often point to this episode as a standout, not only for its action sequences but for its clever script and well-executed moral undertones.
This episode is a reminder of the values Wonder Woman championed—fighting for justice, protecting the innocent, and facing challenges with unwavering determination. Even decades after it first aired, “Last of the Two Dollar Bills” continues to resonate with viewers who appreciate a good blend of action, intellect, and ethical heroism.
