Kojak: The Price Of Justice

Kojak: The Price of Justice is a thrilling 1987 made-for-television movie that continues to uphold the tradition of the captivating series, Kojak, that ran from 1973 to 1978 on CBS. The movie is a thought-provoking police procedural infused with gritty crime drama elements that fervently appeals to its audience. Starring Telly Savalas reprising his role as Lieutenant Theo Kojak, other pivotal roles are deftly portrayed by Kate Nelligan and Pat Hingle.

The film solidifies Savalas’ iconic character, Lieutenant Theo Kojak, a tough-talking, no-nonsense New York City cop unflinching in his dedication to serving justice. Kojak's famous catchphrase, "Who loves ya, baby?" is evoked as he uncovers mysteries and brings perpetrators to justice, offering moments of levity to balance the somber criminal investigations that form the crux of the narrative.

The film opens against the backdrop of an average New York day where everything goes from normal to grim in an abyss of seconds as the ruthless murder of two children shocks the city. The procedural rhythm of the movie begins to kick in when experienced NYC police detective Theo Kojak takes command of the case. The plot thickens with a web of suspicion and doubt as Kojak investigates, nimbly navigating the treacherous waters of crime, corruption, and the complex urban jungle of New York City.

Kate Nelligan stars as Kitty, the grieving mother of the murdered children. Her critically acclaimed acting prowess is evident in the emotional intensity she brings to her role, portraying a tumult of emotions ranging from anguish, despair to righteous fury.

The narrative compels the viewer to question whether justice will be served when Kitty's estranged husband and the children's father, Tony Salducci, played by Pat Hingle, comes under suspicion. Hingle, a seasoned actor known for his intense performances, shines as he embodies the charm and menace of a man who could be merciless enough to commit such a horrifying crime. His nuanced performance elevates the tension, crime, and suspense of the film.

As the investigation proceeds, the audience is pulled into a vortex of intricate plot twists, with every revelation amplifying the intrigue. Laced with Kojak's characteristic sarcasm and dogged determination, The Price of Justice subtly explores themes of family dynamics, fatherhood, corruption, and how far one is willing to go to secure justice. The movie immerses you in a closely knit plot that revolves around power play, deceit, and the psychological aspects of crime and justice.

Eschewing high-speed chases and excessive violence, the focus of this hard-boiled thriller is consistently on the intellectual and moral struggle to distinguish the innocent from the guilty. Despite being made for television, the movie doesn't compromise on the cinematic aesthetic, employing adept cinematography to capture the grim and gritty reality on the streets of New York and articulate the bleak atmosphere surrounding every criminal case.

Director Alan Metzger brings his seasoned television direction skills onboard to ensure that the narrative gains veins of rich character dynamics and layered storytelling. The screenplay, written by Abby Mann and Selwyn Raab, is based on the real-life Alice Crimmins case, providing a deeper authenticity to the storyline.

Fans of the original Kojak series and Savalas’ unforgettable portrayal of the charming, lollipop-sucking detective will undoubtedly find much to enjoy in Kojak: The Price of Justice. For those rediscovering or being introduced to Kojak, this movie serves as an engaging crime drama, with a vintage charm that is pretty hard to resist.

The film preserves the essence of 70s and 80s crime dramas, making it an engaging watch even in today's times. It leaves you contemplating the evidence, the characters’ morals, and the titular "price of justice" long after the credits roll. The movie is a testament to Telly Savalas's charismatic screen presence and the enduring appeal of one of television's most memorable and beloved crime solvers.