The Saint: Seasons 1 & 2

Roger Moore stars as Simon Templar, the debonair modern Robin Hood from the popular novels by Leslie Charteris, in this 1960s British TV series. Templar, who was previously featured in a series of American movies starring George Sanders, was revived for this lighthearted show about a jet-setting adventurer and philanthropist who manages to become involved in a mystery pretty much everywhere he goes. The series launched in 1962, in the wake of the Cold War-influenced 007 movies and other TV shows like The Avengers and Danger Man, but Moore here is less secret agent than freelance private detective, drawn into the personal crises of people he meets (only some of which turn into international incidents). Moore plays host as well as star, speaking directly to the audience to set up each story, maintaining a degree of unflappable cool and cultured charm throughout (this could well have been his audition piece for his later role as James Bond). Viewers will spot familiar British faces throughout, but early episodes feature a few notable guests who are on their way to stardom, including Honor Blackman (Goldfinger), Oliver Reed, and Julie Christie. Produced in Britain by ITC, this set compiles all 39 episodes of the 1962-64 first and second seasons, with extras including audio commentaries. While hardly must-see TV, this will be a nostalgic treat for fans of classic TV. A strong optional purchase. (S. Axmaker)