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Magnum was filmed in Hawaii during the 1980s, just as Hawaii Five-O was ending. The modern viewer will enjoy the high quality of the exterior scenes, which are the result of the excellent tropical light. However, Magnum was a smaller production than Five-O. The lack of expensive lighting results in a lack of definition for interior shots. Superficially, Magnum is a mid-30s ex-naval officer, working as a private investigator for his mostly female clients. He dresses very casually, and has little money of his own. However, he is allowed use of a Ferrari, as well as room and board, as second security consultant for the absentee landlord of a large estate. However, Magnum's life is plagued by the chief security consultant, Higgins, who constantly upbraids him for his slovenly ways and lack of respect for the old-world social forms the older, British Higgins values. Aiding Magnum in his investigations are ex-service buddies, chopper pilot, TC, and Rick, the manager of a private club. Also at the superficial level, Magnum is tall, athletic, and very good-looking. Equally, many of his clients are attractive, single women of about 30. Two of the perennial themes are Magnum failing to pay the debts he owes Rick & TC, and Higgins granting or removing permission for Magnum to use the guest facilities at the estate. Watching for a few episodes, it is apparent that, despite their differences, Magnum and Higgins share the military gentleman's code, and this is a bond between them. Part of this code means that, despite encouragement, Magnum never becomes involved with his clients, and one of the reasons he remains poor is that he finds it difficult to ask women for money. The code also means that Higgins is sometimes reluctantly willing to help Magnum in deserving cases. Beneath this, there are many parallels with the Arthurian tales. Higgins and the idyllic estate he guards have several features in common with Camelot and King Arthur's fussy seneschal, Sir Kay. Magnum, on the other hand, is like a disrespectful junior knight, overconfident in his own strength and ability, and still with a lot to learn. At the deepest level, however, Magnum is about healing and renewal. Hawaii was a main resort for the rest and recuperation for Vietnam servicemen. Magnum, TC, and Rick all served in that war, and still bear the mental scars of its trauma and ultimate defeat. Several of the best and most expensive episodes are flashbacks to those troubles. The friendship of this trio forms part of their healing process. However, Magnum, in particular, feels a need to renew his slightly tarnished honour. He felt unable to do so as an officer, and this is his deep motivation for helping damsels in distress. Higgins,who served in numberless colonial wars and regards himself as an expert on honour, continually criticises Magnum's efforts. However, the viewer can see that Magnum, though no superman, does his level best. Possibly, there are also messages her about America's healing and renewal, following the national trauma of the late 60's and 1970's. The casual, relaxed atmosphere of Magnum makes it ideal late-night viewing, despite some loose scripts and the low picture quality of some interior scenesRead full review
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I love watching the episodes
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: New
Good fun detective series.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Very pleased with this product
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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