Hara-kiri 50 Years Ago!

[Mr. Mike]

50 years ago tonight, CBS aired S07E13 – “Hara-Kiri: Murder”.

Five-O gets involved in a case quickly when a big bank guy, Mitsuru Matsukata, 'commits suicide'. By the title, we know this isn't true.

McGarrett goes to see the Japanese Consulate. The consul-general Mr. Hata (Andrew J. Sato) explains that Matsukata held a unique position in international trade. Also present is Professor Ramon Borelle (Ossie Davis), who is as diabolical as they come. Hata explains that Borelle was one of Matsukata's oldest friends in the US. Also, we discover that Matsukata was a direct descendent of the samurai and is 'above reproach'.

Danno and Ben dig deeper, meeting Andrew Shibata (John Fujioka). Shibata took Matsukata's place at the bank. Apparently there are some irregularities at the bank but this should not cause someone to kill themselves.

As it goes on, we discover Borelle is ripping off the bank and pocketing the proceeds. He gets his way by threatening people. In Shibata's case, Shibata's wife has been kidnapped. Shibata cooperates as much as he can (with both sides, by the way).

Five-O figures out the scam, sometimes in convoluted ways, and rescue Shibata's wife. Borelle and his cronies are arrested.

Mr. Mike does a much better job on this episode in his review. It’s here: https://www.fiveohomepage.com/5-0log7.htm#157

I like this episode. I know it's not a favorite of many but I think the reason I like it is because we see Danno in action more so than usual.

There are some convoluted issues with this episode, though. Such as Che Fong (Harry Endo) figuring out the safe combination in Shibata's office. There is also the business of Shibata's secretary Ann (Lynne Ellen Hollinger) being an inside person working for Borelle. Of note, she also worked for Matsukata.

Despite these shortfalls, I still like this episode and it's fun to watch.

Happy 50th, “Hara-Kiri: Murder”!!

P.S.: from Mr. Mike: I am posting this for Bobbi, because she injured herself on Christmas Eve so she might be late on the next 50th posting too! Get well, Bobbi!