It Takes a Thief: The Complete Series

This TV series from the late 1960s comes out of the Cold War culture that produced shows like Mission: Impossible and The Man From U.N.C.L.E., with Robert Wagner starring as slick civilian career criminal Alexander Mundy, sprung from prison in exchange for applying his talents to government service. Wagner is part James Bond playboy spy and part all-American operator, always with an eye toward the ladies between (and often during) missions. The show has a great lineup of guest-star beauties playing on both sides of the espionage game, including Susan Saint James in a recurring role as Charlene, a fellow thief. It Takes a Thief lasted three seasons, the third of which was shot in Italy, which gives it a real international flavor and glamour, while also introducing Fred Astaire in a recurring role as Wagner's father, Alistair, a globetrotting master burglar who taught his son everything he knows. This is a lark of a show; not as clever as other artifacts of the era, but it's self-aware and fun, and Wagner brings a sly charm to the role. Compiling all 66 episodes from three seasons—aired in 1968–70 and featuring spotty video quality here—DVD extras include interviews with Wagner and producer Glen A. Larson. Great nostalgic fun, though hardly must-see TV, this is a strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)