It Takes A Thief

"It Takes A Thief" is a thrilling crime drama television series aired on ABC, starring Robert Wagner, from 1968 to 1970. The show weaves espionage, action, and complex narratives into an enticing blend that made it a well-remembered piece of television history.

The series has an innovative premise that revolves around Alexander Mundy, portrayed by the suave and charismatic Robert Wagner, who is a world-renowned, professional thief. With a wealth of experiences in high-profile heists and advanced skills in navigating through the most secure establishments, Mundy was the epitome of an elite criminal mastermind. However, his life takes an intriguing turn when he gets apprehended and finds himself with an unexpected proposal that would set him free from his prison sentence.

In a twist of fate, instead of serving his incarceration, Mundy is offered an unusual proposition - to parlay his unlawful skills, expertise in theft, and knowledge of the criminal underworld into a service of national security. He is thus entrusted with the title of secret agent by the United States government. The condition, of course, being that he must consent to spy for the SIA (Secret Intelligence Agency), using his unique skills to pilfer secrets from foreign adversaries, sabotage enemy operations, and tackle intricate missions of international consequence.

Robert Wagner excels in portraying the dual personality of Alexander Mundy, injecting the series with humor and charm through his charismatic presence. Mundy's constant pursuit of luxury, appetite for danger and excitement, and his generous sprinkling of suave sophistication and light-hearted quips provide a brilliant underpinning to the action-oriented show.

Mundy reports to Noah Bain, acted by Malachi Throne, who acts as his boss, and sometimes partner, in the SIA. Bain initially frees Mundy from his prison sentence and becomes his handler in the agency. Their dynamic is complex and underlined with mutual respect. The relationship between the law-abiding Bain and the maverick Mundy lends depth to the narrative and enhances the dramatic intensity of the series.

One of the captivating characteristics of "It Takes A Thief" is the exotic locales where the episodes are based. The global setting of the series brings diversity and suspense, allowing it to effectively blend the elements of a travelogue with the thrilling components of a spy drama. The show's exhilarating chases, high-stakes heists, and intricate missions, set against stunning foreign backdrops, create a blend of tension and delight that kept viewers on the edge of their seats.

The innovative concept of a rogue turned spy gave the series a unique sophistication and distinctive charm, making it a standout among the late 1960s crime dramas. A thief using his skills for the greater good was not a common trope during this period, and this refreshing take on the genre was met with positive reviews.

The show builds on Mundy's transformation from high-stakes thief to an elective spy with remarkable finesse. It masterfully explores the inherent conflict between Mundy's past and his new, imposed purpose, making it an in-depth character study amid its action-packed storylines. The balancing act he plays, being a reformed criminal versus serving as a patriotic secret agent, forms a significant fulcrum around which the series' narrative revolves.

Furthermore, the series does not shy away from complex storytelling. Interwoven within the show's thrill-filled cloak-and-dagger narratives are solid plotlines speaking to broader geopolitical realities. The series engages the audience with intelligent scripts, packed with clever dialogues, crisp humor, and unexpected twists.

"It Takes a Thief" was much loved for its daring exploits, fair measure of suspense, and stylish execution. Robert Wagner's winning performance combined with the unique premise and clever scripting of the series makes it a compelling part of television's golden period. It's a treat for fans of crime, spy thrillers, and fast-paced action, all wrapped up with a dash of humor and style. From the catchy theme song and Wagner's magnetic presence to the exotic settings and thrilling narratives, "It Takes A Thief" maintains its watchability, even decades after its original broadcast.