The Rockford Files (1974–1980): Season 2, Episode 17 - Joey Blue Eyes - full transcript
Jim helps one of Beth's clients, who is being swindled out of his business.
I think you know
one of our people,
Sweet Tooth London?
I've met him.
You tried to kill him.
What happened?
You tell me, you tell me!
I thought you said
these guys was creampuffs.
Well, to tell you the truth,
con to con, I'd just be
lost in a deal like that.
I don't even balance
my checkbook too well.
Please, you've got to
help him, Mr. Rockford.
Well, I got to admit what
I got in mind is not exactly
on the up-and-up but...
You mean
we should hit him?
Nothing's changed.
Oh, yes, it has.
You see, we've kidnapped
Paulette DiMinna.
I like to do things
with just a little
more finesse.
So, if you want my help,
you're gonna have to put away
your brass knucks
and do it my way!
You kidnapped this girl
and you expect me
to pay the ransom?
$250,000 by midnight.
If you want to wait
in the alley, slick,
I'll meet you out there
in a few minutes.
I'm a spur-of-the-moment guy.
I don't wait in alleys.
You mess with me,
you're taking a chance.
You mess with my daughter
and you're dead.
(PHONE RINGING)
ROCKFORD:
(ON ANSWERING MACHINE)
This is Jim Rockford.
At the tone, leave your name
and message.
I'll get back to you.
(BEEPS)
MAN: Sorry, Jim.
This is for Rocky.
Hey, Rock. Stan.
Got that redhead
and her sister.
10:30, Macy's Grill.
(LAUGHING)
(KNOCKING ON DOOR)
Who is it?
MAN: Joey here?
No, I'm sorry.
He should be
at the restaurant.
Who are you?
Who are you?
Are you nuts?
Come here.
I asked you
where Joey was.
You don't have to find him.
He'll find you!
This worth much?
Not what it's going to
cost you.
(SLAPPING)
ROCKFORD: What was
that again?
BETH: What?
What you just said.
Oh, I thought that
while we're
at the restaurant,
you might like to talk
to a friend of mine.
Joey Blue Eyes,
who owns the restaurant,
'cause he has
a little problem and I thought
you might like to help.
That's what
I thought you said.
Well, then your
hearing's just fine.
Congratulations, Jim.
Joey Blue Eyes?
He wouldn't be a hood now,
would he?
A reformed hood,
like you.
His real name
is Joseph DiMinna.
We're going to dinner
on a date, right?
Right.
So what's all this talk
about a charity case?
I don't want to
talk to some guy
about his problems.
I got problems
of my own.
Well, that's just great, Jim.
And if I do say so myself,
a little bit selfish.
I'm a selfish guy.
Well, we have reservations.
If you don't want
to talk to Joey,
you don't have to.
Deal.
Before we get
to the restaurant,
let me tell you a little bit
about the problem he has.
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING ON PIANO)
Here he comes.
Be nice.
Are you kidding?
Take a full-blooded jerk
to smart off
to anything that big.
JOEY: Hi, honey.
Hi, Joey.
I hear you done time
in Quentin.
Well, thanks.
It's nice to meet you, too.
Like your dinner?
Yeah, just great.
You got a nice
restaurant here.
Did you tell him?
Well, sort of. I told him
you had a problem.
I went into a few details.
Everybody's got problems,
Mr. DiMinna.
It's part of the joy of life.
What's he talking about?
He's just kidding.
Now listen, pal,
Beth here said
you can help me,
that you done time.
Now, I've been on my own
all my life.
I got this here joint,
but I'm up to my knees
in airtight clauses
and holding companies
that don't hold nothing.
Now, Beth said you can help me
and I figure you're an ex-con.
Well, maybe
we should parley.
Now, I don't need a comic.
I need a guy
who can help me
out of this jam.
Well, listen,
Mr. DiMinna.
Joey. Just call me Joey.
Right. Listen, Joey,
what I meant was
I'm semi-retired right now.
I like to keep
my hand in.
I'll go out and try to
find a car to repossess
or something like that.
But, what Beth tells me,
you've got heavy
corporate problems,
maybe even a nice,
juicy fraud case.
Well, to tell you the truth,
con to con, I'd just be
lost in a deal like that.
I don't even balance
my checkbook too well.
So I think we ought to
get our check and just
mosey right along, huh?
This chicken-hearted creep
is the honest John
you said could help me?
Well, now, be nice, Joey.
Just 'cause I don't want
to get messed up...
Drift, mister.
Get out of my joint!
Now, wait a minute.
You heard me.
Well, I'd like it better
if you said "please."
You're gonna rot
waiting for that.
Please stop it.
Well, tell this guy
to back off.
Joey, please!
Mr. DiMinna, telephone.
Later.
It's the hospital,
an emergency. I think
you should answer it, sir.
If you want to wait
in the alley, slick,
I'll meet you out there
in a few minutes.
I'm a spur-of-the-moment guy.
I don't wait in alleys.
Well, that was some great
macho performance.
Look, Beth,
we came here for dinner.
Your friend barges in,
250 pounds of gristle
dressed up like Fred Astaire.
What am I supposed to do,
just roll over and say,
"Please don't hurt me"?
Well, I'm sorry.
I don't like him.
I don't want to work for him.
And that's my prerogative.
You're right.
I'll walk.
Now, Beth...
Let go of my arm,
please.
Well, what was I
supposed to do?
You didn't have to
act like some sort of
high school dropout
who's gonna go
get in a fight
behind the gym.
All right, I'm sorry.
That was stupid.
You didn't give him
a chance.
Taxi, please.
No, no, no. Here.
Get my car.
You're not gonna
take a taxi.
Oh, Jim, tell him
you're sorry.
Why doesn't he tell me
he's sorry?
Okay, I'll tell him.
Move! Will you?
Well, you got to admit
he's just a little
hard to talk to.
(TIRES SCREECHING)
ROCKFORD: A new place opened
out on the pier.
You want to try
their coffee?
BETH: Thanks.
It's a little late.
For what?
For coffee.
Beth, Joey and I don't
like each other.
We're not gonna
be buddies.
We're not even gonna end up
trading baseball cards.
Does it have to
spoil the evening?
Of course not.
We won't even discuss it.
Fine.
Why don't you just
come right out and say
you don't care about
anybody but yourself?
I don't care about
anybody but myself.
That's a rotten thing
to say.
Okay. Okay,
I'll talk to him.
Forget it.
Well, you know
something, Beth?
It's not all my fault.
He wasn't exactly charming.
Yeah.
Joey used to be
a collector for the mob.
He must've broken
a lot of bones in his day.
Then about 10 years ago
he got caught and
they put him in jail.
When he got out,
he tried to go straight.
I never saw anybody
try so hard.
You, of all people,
must know how tough
it can be.
Okay. Okay.
Well, about five years ago,
when he got out,
he decided to go into
the restaurant business.
And he got a little place
and he made a go of it.
Well, he wanted to expand,
so he brought in a partner,
a man named Striker.
They signed a lot of contracts
set up by Joey's lawyer,
a man named
Larry Mitchell...
who, as it turns out,
was working under the table
for Striker.
They gave Joey 49%
of the Slammer restaurants,
plus full ownership
of the supply companies.
The idea was
that in four years
Joey would have the option
to buy his partners out
at a fixed price
and own
the whole restaurant.
His option date
comes up in two days.
Only all of the assets
he thought he had turned out
to be nothing but paper.
Right.
Now they want to franchise
the Slammer restaurants.
It's worth a fortune.
But Joey's partners
have it rigged
so that he won't be able to
exercise his option.
Well, can't you sell
the subsidiary companies
for anything?
Oh, I tried to sell
some of them this afternoon
to come up with the cash.
It turns out they're all
deeply in debt.
In fact, they're in debt
to the restaurant itself,
which Joey doesn't own
controlling interest in.
Now his partners want
to foreclose on him
to force the debts
that they imposed upon him.
And he's gonna lose
the whole shebang.
Sounds like he got
fleeced pretty good.
If he's a little
brusque and angry,
maybe you can understand
that he's...
in a lot of trouble.
And... And he's about
to lose his dream.
Okay, I forgive.
Will you do me a favor?
It depends.
Would you talk
to Paulette?
Who's Paulette?
Joey's daughter.
She's a friend of mine.
We went to school together.
Well, that makes
more sense.
You're doing it for Paulette,
not that overstuffed gorilla.
Jim!
I'll meet her. Okay?
MITCHELL: I know the law firm.
They're pretty heavy.
But I don't know who she is
or why she's involved
in Joey's case.
He's got a new lawyer,
that's all.
Probably doesn't
trust you, Mitchell.
Can't say as I blame him.
So what should I
tell her?
Just what I pay you for,
nothing.
That's a point
I've been meaning
to bring up, Mr. Striker.
I think my retainer
should be higher.
We've got a contract
with you, Mitchell.
So did Joey.
Say another $1,000
a month?
You blackmailing me, Larry?
If you want to
call it that.
I'll take care of you, Larry.
You can depend on it.
You seen Sweet Tooth?
I want to
talk to him.
SWEET TOOTH:
Joey, what are you doing?
Joey, wait a minute.
You mess with me,
you're taking a chance.
You mess with my daughter
and you're dead!
Wait a minute.
Wait a minute, Joey.
It wasn't me.
It wasn't me,
it was Shep.
I didn't have
nothing to do with it.
It was an accident.
So is this.
WOMAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Doctor Ray.
Doctor Marianne Ray.
Please pick up
the house phone.
I just got word
from my service
when I got home.
Thank God
you're all right.
I'm fine, really.
You're Mr. Rockford?
Yeah, Jim. Yeah.
Does Joey know?
He's already been
and gone.
Where to?
I don't know.
I mentioned a name I heard
of one of the men
who beat me up,
Sweet Tooth,
and Dad took off
out of here like a train.
Who were they?
Who's Sweet Tooth?
I haven't the slightest.
Beth, you've got to
do something.
Dad can't afford
any more trouble.
Did you talk
to Mitchell?
Mitchell. Isn't that
Joey's lawyer?
The one who suckered him
into this deal?
Turns out
he's on Striker's payroll.
$36,000 a year.
So I hit him
with a threat of
conflict of interest
and told him I'd take him
to the Bar Association.
What happened?
He laughed.
Turns out the law firm
has the contract
with Striker Industries
not Mitchell personally.
Pursuant to.
Pursuant to just more of
that fine print wallpaper
attorneys play with.
I didn't mean you, Beth.
I know.
Well, what do we do?
Well, you need a CPA,
not a PI.
We tried that.
Their books
are pure fiction.
But by the time I could
get it into court,
Joey would already
have forfeited his option
and we'd be out with nothing.
Do you have any ideas,
Mr. Rockford?
Oh, Jim doesn't
want to help, Paulette.
Why?
He doesn't like
your father.
Oh, Beth!
Beth, I didn't say that.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I thought that was it.
Please, you've got to
help him, Mr. Rockford.
He needs somebody.
He needs a friend.
(STAMMERING)
Well, I sort of...
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yes?
Hello?
Oh, no.
When?
Okay.
I'll see what I can do.
Thanks.
You've got to help him.
He's back in jail.
Well, what did you
expect me to do? Kiss him?
He beat up on Paulette.
You wouldn't understand.
Not assault
and battery I don't.
And more than that,
you promised to stay cool.
Well, not when it
comes to family!
Now Sweet Tooth
should have known better.
At least he does now.
You got to do that?
Old habits.
How did you
get into Sweet Tooth
for $50,000, anyway?
Well, he's a shark!
Who else I got
collateral with?
I didn't ask you that,
I asked you why.
Now, what are you,
into book or what?
I needed the money
to pay off Striker.
To pay off, to buy back
my own joint.
You didn't mention
where you got the money.
Well, does it
make a difference?
Now, look, do I
get out of here or not?
It's in the works.
You're just lucky
he wouldn't sign
the complaint.
Yeah, I'll bet
he wouldn't.
Come on, come on,
let's shake this place.
Hey, what are you,
in a hurry to get back and
slap Sweet Tooth around again?
If it would help,
you're damn right!
Right over the side!
Joey, it's gonna
work out.
Yeah, I've heard
that story before!
Yeah, well, we've heard
your story, too,
and it doesn't start
with "once upon a time"
and the way you're going,
it's not gonna end up
"they lived happily
ever after."
Now look, Rockford,
what are you doing here,
anyway?
You come here
to needle me?
What's your story,
Rockford?
Okay, Joey.
I'll give it to you.
I think you're nothing
but a skull crusher
who slings hash on the side.
If you got a problem,
the only way you can figure
out is to lay somebody up.
Jim, stop it.
No, no, Beth,
let me finish.
I never wanted in
on this thing
and if I'm gonna go along,
I got to tell Mr. Blue Eyes
how it's gonna play.
I have a certain style
in this kind of thing.
It doesn't include
hospitalization.
I like to do things
with just a little
more finesse.
So if you want my help,
you're gonna have to
put away your brass knucks
and do it my way!
You got a lot
of guts, Rockford.
Nobody ever talked
to me like that.
Well, if I'm gonna
go along,
it's gonna cost you
$200 a day plus expenses
starting last night.
You're free to go.
You can pick up
your personal effects
at Property, main building.
Okay, Rockford.
I'll play it your way.
Where do we go
from here?
Well, the first thing
you do
is put your hands
in your pockets
and you keep them there.
Then what?
Then we go talk
to Sweet Tooth London.
It don't matter, dummy.
You know, he's gonna
get his someday.
Don't worry about it.
Shep, always
business first, right?
I could
take care of him.
All right.
Now wait a minute, Joey.
Everything's fine.
I dropped all the charges,
now you know that.
Prizes come in
the Cracker Jack boxes.
I want to talk to you.
Now hold it, Joey.
Let me talk to him
in private first, okay?
Wait for me here?
You, too, pal.
Stay here and
keep him company.
I'm Jim Taggart.
Joey's lawyer.
I think maybe
I got a deal for you.
SWEET TOOTH: We got no deal
that I can see.
That guy's into me
for a bundle of $50,000.
And I've gone far enough
not nailing him
for 10 to 20.
Ah, well, that's
real big of you.
Of course, it couldn't
have anything to do
with the fact that...
he couldn't pay you back
if he was in jail.
Go ahead and talk.
I got to work.
Yeah, I just want you
to lend Joey another $200,000.
You're a funny man!
Well, Joey owes you $50,000.
And if he loses
the restaurant,
you're left eating it.
Maybe.
Yeah, maybe.
And maybe if you
loan him the money,
he regains control
of the restaurant
and the profits,
and he pays you back.
I don't back horses
with heart conditions, pal.
If he goes broke,
you're left with the short end
of nothing.
SWEET TOOTH: Not me.
The people I got to
answer to that,
they don't like shakedowns
unless they're shaking.
You tell that to Joey
for me and for them.
If he don't get it up
by Friday, he's gone.
And so is his daughter.
Well, who's pushing you
into anything?
You're the one
that said he could do it.
I said it because
you're always coming on
like you were in a foxhole
with me in Anzio.
I'm always owing you a favor
'cause you saved my life.
I don't even want you
to consider that.
Hmm.
Look, I did
what I had to do
for a friend.
The only time my life
needs saving is when I get
mixed up with you.
Let me ask you something.
Why do I have to be
the one to go into the pit?
Comes to con,
you're the champion.
Well, you're right there.
But, you know,
you've got experience.
You've been a book.
Numbers, Jimmy, numbers!
Now, guys into booking,
that's a whole other thing!
Ain't no respectability.
Yeah, I'm sorry about that.
Except you've got
the right attitude.
You know,
that's the important thing.
Attitude, my ear!
Why don't you go in
and give Striker
some of that grease!
Well, if I could,
believe me, Angel, I would.
But, I've got to
keep a free hand in case
this thing doesn't work.
Now that's fantastic!
Never mind about your hand,
what about my head?
Come on, Angel,
this is Wall Street,
not Main Street.
Worse that could happen
to you is somebody maybe
stab you with a pen.
Are you sure?
Yeah. Just keep chewing.
What if this Striker
doesn't buy it?
Well, then say thank you
and give him a line
on the Dow Jones.
But don't mention
my name.
Right behind me,
huh, Lieutenant?
Go on.
Is that it?
Yes, thank you.
Muriel, send
Mr. London in.
Mr. London?
Good to see you.
This is Mr. Barrow.
How do you do?
Hey, it's a pleasure.
You're an associate
of Joey DiMinna's,
I understand.
I wouldn't give him
the time to die.
But he owes me $50,000,
which he gave to you.
Really?
What kind of business
are you in, Mr. London?
I'm a banker.
20% per week.
A shylock, you mean.
We all do business
like we can, don't we?
And I admire your style.
Now, Mr. London, you said
when you phoned for
this appointment that you...
That I could save you
some money. And I can.
Now you see, Joey's
into me for $50,000
plus interest.
My money, which he paid
to you for the first option
on his restaurant.
Now, he gave me
all the details
under some pressure,
I will admit.
Well, now, let me make
one thing clear.
Where Mr. DiMinna
got his money
to pay off the option
is of no concern
to this corporation.
There is no legal...
Hey, don't waste my time
with that New Jersey
dialogue, partner!
I got attorneys
and accountants, too.
You see, Joey gave me
the quick story.
He said that he needed
$50,000 to beat off
the wolves.
Normally, he's a tuna,
so I give it to him.
$50,000! Now what
you think?
He don't pay back,
he comes back and he says
he needs $200,000 more.
And if I don't cough,
he chokes. And so do I.
So you want
$200,000 from me.
Your interest rates
have gone up.
Times are rough.
$200,000 for what?
So that I don't lay
the same zeroes off
on Joey.
See, I give him
the $200,000 he wants,
he gives it to you
and you're out.
Now what do you figure those
new franchise restaurants
are worth?
Joey mentioned the sum
of about $8 million wrapped up
into them already,
so I figure,
what's another $200,000?
You make a present of it
to me, and I get lost.
You're in and he's out.
I'm prepared to make you
a counter-offer.
Zero.
Well, maybe I didn't
make the point clear enough.
It's terribly clear.
I'm not interested.
Good day, Mr. London.
I said, good day.
Burt, I don't like this.
If they lend Joey the money,
he'll pay us off
and we're out.
It's a bluff!
There are too many "ifs."
If they were that smart.
If they even had it
to begin with.
It's a wonder he didn't
ask me to validate
his parking ticket.
Still, it doesn't hurt
to make sure.
This is Mr. Striker.
Is Gannon around?
Well, get him. Hurry up.
I didn't mean it that way.
That's just not
good business.
It's not smart.
Stick to your books.
I'll run the company.
Gannon?
There's something
I want you to do.
What happened?
You tell me, you tell me!
I thought you said
these guys was creampuffs!
Well, nobody's perfect,
Angel.
(METALLIC RATTLING)
You got me in
some trouble, Jimmy.
Aw, Angel, it's not
that bad.
You got me in some trouble
and I ain't listening
to any "Aw, Angel"
or anything like that.
Now what I'm doing
is I'm telling you
you got to get me out.
Those guys are looking
to dust me.
And I'm telling you
I don't want to be dusted.
I'd hate to die just yet.
Really hate it.
I'll look into it.
Yeah, I'd appreciate it.
Now let's get out of here.
Pop!
All right. All right.
So I'm cool.
Now look, Rockford,
I've been hoping to make it
as polite as you and Beth.
But so far,
nobody is hitting
like Joe DiMaggio.
We just haven't
turned it around yet,
that's all.
Day after tomorrow
is Friday.
Did you give Dominic
another raise?
Well, he's a good kid.
Besides, he's getting married!
Look, this is all
very nice,
but it's not gonna
help us out with this thing.
People have to get paid,
even if we're not around.
You know,
talk about laying down,
it seems to me
I've been paying you
for a lot of time's worth
that's going
absolutely nowhere!
All your tap-dancing
has got us
is a promise
from Sweet Tooth
and Striker to pipe us!
Yeah. Well, now you got
a friend of mine
in your spotlight.
Your friend Angel?
Yeah.
I'm sorry that
had to happen.
Yeah. Well, the only reason
he's in trouble
is 'cause I made the mistake
of picking up on your case!
Well, tell him to wrap it!
And you, too!
Well, all right.
You just point me
to the right hole!
You're the expert!
Now look, Rockford...
Do it, by God!
Go ahead, do it!
Kill each other!
Well, I'm sorry, honey.
It's my fault, I guess.
You're telling me
like your mama,
but I just don't listen.
Hey...
remember what
your mama used to say,
the only thing I could
get into my ears
are knuckles.
I'm sorry, Rockford.
You didn't want in
and I guess you tried.
Yeah, just not
enough, I guess.
Well, it never is enough.
They break your back.
They tell you,
"You should try harder."
You should walk straight
with a broken back!
I never asked
for anything special.
I made mistakes.
I paid for my county shoes.
Total nine years,
ever since I was 14.
Pretty dumb, right?
PAULETTE: It's all dumb.
Playing by the rules
that don't mean what they say.
Well, maybe that's
what we're doing wrong.
So far all we've
given them is words,
and the only thing
they really care about
is what's written
on the bottom line.
Paulette, didn't you say
that the restaurant,
all the contracts, everything
are in your name, right?
Well, you know
how it is.
When you're in prison
they teach you how
to make license plates,
when they let you out,
they won't let you have one.
Pop's got a felony record,
and if you want
a liquor license,
owner of name's
got to be clean.
That's why I'm the real boss.
Right, Pop?
The one and only.
Not like your mama, though.
Don't worry. We'll get by.
Thanks for your help,
Jim.
And I'm sorry
that we both got
a little emotional.
Now all we've got to do is,
we got to get Striker down
out of that fancy office
and into the street.
You mean we should hit him?
Well, just enough
to make him hit back.
Oh, Jim...
Well, not real muscle.
No, it's just...
Well, I got to admit,
what I got in mind is not
exactly on the up-and-up,
but it might get
your restaurant back.
It just might.
Oh, am I glad that's over.
There won't be
any problem, Burt,
believe me.
Once you have
clear title on the restaurant,
we'll give you
every extension
on those loans possible.
Good, then you can
look for me
when you open your doors
at 10:00 tomorrow.
Listen, I can't tell you
how much I appreciate
what you're doing for us.
You're gonna get
a lot of our business.
How about a drink?
I better not.
I'm running late.
Thanks for the game.
Oh, thank you.
Hi, Burt.
How's your back swing?
Too fast.
How you doing?
Oh, all right.
You don't remember me,
do you?
Sure. Sure.
No you don't.
You never met me before.
I'm Jim Taggart.
I called your office
this morning
for an appointment,
they told me
you were out here.
What is it you're selling,
Mr. Taggart?
My company, Burt,
in a manner of speaking.
Of course,
you got to understand that,
we're not on the exchange
or anything like that,
but when it comes to
cash flow,
we're in a lot better shape
than your company.
I think you know
one of our people,
Sweet Tooth London?
I've met him.
Yeah, you sure have.
You tried to kill him.
Ed.
Mr. Taggart, I run
a very legitimate
business here.
So, if you don't mind...
So do we.
You see, I'm an accountant.
I know all your
facts and figures.
Including the fact
that the banks are
breathing down your neck.
That was Bill Evans,
the Vice President
of Home National, wasn't it?
So you see, I know that
if you don't walk into
his bank tomorrow
with lock and stock
on Joey's restaurant,
they're gonna wipe you out.
Mr. Taggart, if you're
looking to embarrass me,
I'm sure you can.
But what I told your
Mr. London still goes.
Nothing's changed.
Oh, yes, it has.
You see, we've kidnapped
Paulette DiMinna.
MAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Next up please.
Mr. Limmering, Mr. Frank,
Mr. Jenovan, Mr. O'Brien...
Mr. Taggart, I'm afraid
you've been misled.
Apparently so, into believing
that you're as smart
as you think you are.
So I'll do it by the numbers.
Paulette DiMinna signs
all the checks, all power
of attorney is vested in her.
If she turns up missing
and there's just
a hint of foul play.
One thing I don't
have to tell you is how slow
the legal system can be.
That's to protect
the innocent, of course.
It could be months,
years before the courts
give you clear title.
But then again, I guess
I'm just wasting your time.
I'm sure the banks
and Mr. Evans will be
very patient with you.
You kidnap this girl
and you expect me
to pay the ransom?
What do you think's
going to happen
when I bring the police in?
Oh, well, they'll believe you,
of course.
Just like the banks.
Well, you have no interest
in the girl.
That was a very
big pie to slice.
All we're interested in
is our $50,000 investment
plus interest.
$250,000.
I thought
it was $200,000?
Well, time is money.
$250,000 by midnight.
I can reach you
at your office?
Good. Good.
I appreciate that!
MAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Dr. Howard Burr, you have
a message at the clubhouse.
Dr. Burr.
If he's kidnapped the girl,
he can pull it off.
We can't close our financing
without the papers signed.
You don't seriously
believe him, do you?
But he just said...
Look, look, Joey knows
we can't complete the deal
without Paulette.
So he cooks up this
phony kidnapping scheme
with this Taggart.
They stash Paulette
in a motel somewhere,
then he has this character
come out here and lay
this smoke job on me,
and I'm supposed
to lay $250,000 on them.
You mean it's a con?
It's got to be.
Listen, I want you
to get up to the clubhouse
and get Gannon.
Have him tail this Taggart
right now before he gets away.
He's gonna lead us
to Paulette eventually,
and when he does,
we'll simply step in
and borrow the girl until
we sign the restaurant off.
Well, get moving.
(MAN CHATTERING
ON P.A. SYSTEM)
And still champ,
Joey Blue Eyes!
They could use that thing
as a jackhammer.
Well, yours ain't exactly
peanut butter, you know.
It's been a long time,
old buddy.
Hey, things must be
going pretty good
at that restaurant, huh?
Well, I'm trying.
Oh, I better
be getting back.
Hey, Fred, could you get me
those blueprints or maps,
whatever you call them?
Sure. It's no problem.
I know this guy
in the engineering department.
Well, I need
them right away.
What's the rush?
Joey, what are you into,
anyway?
Hey, Fred,
when I did favors
for you in the joint...
I know. You don't ask why.
I'll pick them up
in an hour, huh?
GANNON: How long does
Mr. Striker want me
to tail this guy?
As long as it takes.
Mr. Striker says
he'll lead us
to the girl eventually.
Where is he now?
He's in a restaurant.
I'm parked out in front.
Well, stay on him.
I'll be here.
ROCKFORD: Joey, no!
Joey, no.
Where is she? Where is she?
Tell me where's...
Where's Paulette?
Joey, don't.
Put that thing away!
Taggart!
No, Joey.
Where is she?
No, no, no.
Where's Paulette?
Joey, don't!
Don't do that! Joey!
Taggart!
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yeah.
GANNON: You ain't gonna
believe this, Mr. Striker.
What is it?
What happened?
I don't think
Taggart was working
with Joey Blue Eyes.
I'm sure of it.
What's wrong?
I'm parked in front
of a restaurant.
All of a sudden,
Joey comes screeching up,
goes inside,
a couple of minutes later
he and Taggart come out
having this big beef.
Suddenly Joey pulls a gun
and shoots him dead.
What?
That's right. It happened
not 30 feet away from me.
He nailed him, Mr. Striker.
Can't be.
I'm telling you I saw it.
Now, he must have been
giving it to you straight,
Mr. Striker.
He must have kidnapped
Joey's daughter.
And you know Joey's temper.
He found out about it
and he shot Taggart.
All right. All right.
Get ahold of Barrow.
Tell him we're gonna
have to get
the $250,000 ready.
Taggart's dead.
Who you gonna deal with?
He wasn't working alone.
But, Mr. Striker...
Shut your damn mouth
and do as I tell you!
Well, there's a good shirt
and a good coat
on the expense account.
Hey, Joe, I got to tell you!
You were great.
I thought you actually
wanted to kill me.
Hey, you know, that's
the first time I ever really
scratched a guy.
Really?
Hey, how about it, Angel?
Isn't it about time yet?
I don't know, Jimmy.
I think we ought to sweat him
a couple more hours.
Come on, Angel,
you're not gonna get hurt.
Well, I know that.
I just think it's
a little early yet.
Hey, Angel,
you punking out?
Me?
Me punking out!
What, are you kidding?
Well, good.
I'm actually looking
forward to this.
All right. Come on.
Let's get on the phone.
I don't... I don't have
the number, Jimmy.
It's right here.
Come on, Angel.
There's the number,
there's the phone.
Thank you, Jimmy.
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yeah.
Hello, this is
Sweet Tooth London.
I'm sure you remember me,
Mr. Striker.
Yeah.
I understand that you
talked with Mr. Taggart
this afternoon?
That's right.
We are ready to
make a deal, Mr. London.
Mr. Taggart had
a little accident.
We figured maybe
you arranged it.
What?
What are you talking about?
Well, the price goes up
with every failure,
Mr. Striker.
Now, that's a very sound
economic principle
which I like to observe
whenever possible.
I didn't kill him.
Come on, what are you...
What do you think
I am, anyway?
Well, I'd rather not
get into that just yet.
All right.
You have the girl,
I have the cash.
Where do you want
to make the drop?
Okay. There's a litter box
in the park
at the end of East Adams,
50 feet from the entrance.
You put the money in the box
and you clear out.
In a litter box?
As soon as you've put
the $250,000 in the box
and we get it out safely,
we'll drop the girl off
at Joey's restaurant.
Wait a minute, wait a minute.
Are you expecting us
to deliver first?
Supply and demand,
isn't that the way it works?
All right. All right.
Mr. London,
you must understand
that raising
this amount of cash
on such a short notice is...
Midnight!
He bought it?
Yeah.
They'll make the drop
and then try and kill us
when we make the pickup.
Oh, that's
a real good deal.
Oh, I knew
you'd like it, Angel.
I don't want any slip-ups,
you understand?
I want that litter box covered
from every angle.
Burt. Burt, there's no
real need for any violence.
All we've got to do
is catch them.
We make sure the girl
is safe and then we just
turn them over to the police.
Oh, fine. That's wonderful.
Just great.
All that nice publicity.
Give our investors
a great deal
of confidence in us.
All right, then
we'll just drop it.
I mean, once we
take title tomorrow,
there's nothing else
they can do.
(INTERCOM BUZZES)
Yes, Muriel.
MURIEL: The man from the bank
is here, sir.
Fine. Send him in.
Ed, you have to understand
how these kind of people work.
We have to give them
a show of force.
And I hope that's all.
Fine.
Thank you very much.
That'll be all.
I'm sorry, sir,
the bank has a policy.
I have to stay here
until you count it.
All right.
There's $250,000 here.
Sign for it, Ed.
All right. Forget it.
Forget it, we don't have time.
Where'd you
pull it, anyway?
From the Employee
Tax Reserve.
And it's got to be
back in there before Monday.
Don't worry.
It'll be back.
Get your coat.
It's gonna be cold tonight.
(CAR ENGINE STARTING)
(CAR DOOR CLOSING)
You see anything, Fulton?
Just that car went past.
This is a long way's away.
Yeah,
well, it's the easiest route.
Be careful.
Better believe it.
Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
Here comes somebody.
This must be it.
I don't know.
Just seems to be some guy
looking for some empties.
Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
Don't do anything yet.
Hold on.
I don't like it. Hit him!
Hold it right there!
Don't you move.
Hey, I'm sorry.
Honest, I didn't know
it was yours.
I got other cans.
There's cans all over town.
All right. Where's the girl?
Where's London?
Where are they?
Look, I told him I did.
I said he can keep it.
Look, I'm not trying
for trouble.
I'm just looking
for a taste.
Burt, Burt, we're home free!
I just got word from Phil
watching the restaurant!
They dropped off
the girl!
I don't get it.
They didn't even pick it up.
Well, what about him?
He's a wino!
Didn't have brains enough
to check this litter box out
in the first place.
It's over a manhole.
He stood there
with waiting arms!
Don't you understand?
You threw our money
down the sewer!
Come on. Let's go.
We really did it, honey.
Rockford, you are beautiful!
What's the matter?
Don't you want to dance?
Oh, no, no. I need
a shower first.
It was a little grimy
down there.
I still don't understand
where the money came from.
The money?
Money?
Right, the money.
Where did you get
the $250,000?
Well, I'll tell you
what we did.
We set up Striker
with a kidnapping
and sold it to him
with a phony murder.
What we did, Beth, was
we convinced Striker he should
make a donation to Joey.
That's all.
That's all.
You conned him.
Yeah, kind of.
Kind of my foot!
We had him
cleaned and pressed.
Hung him out to dry.
(SHUFFLING)
I saw him killed,
Mr. Striker.
Shut up.
We're closed for the evening.
Can't you read the sign?
I'm an owner, remember?
I come in here as I please.
Well, we'll take care
of that.
Beth, give him his check
and the option to sign.
STRIKER: You got
my money, Joey.
You think I'm gonna let you
pick up your option with it?
I don't know
what you're talking about.
You and Taggart.
Rockford. Jim Rockford.
Whatever it is,
I owe you one.
We have drawn up
a check for $250,000
and this is the signed option.
If you will initial
the places I have checked
and endorse this notarization,
I think that will
conclude our transaction.
Except we'll need
all of the accounting records
and tax files.
Please.
You think I'm gonna
sign over this place,
you're crazy.
We don't have
any choice, Burt.
Unless you'd like us
to sue you for your entire
net worth.
I'm not through
with you, you know.
Hey, slick, maybe I'm not
through with you.
Did you ever think of that?
You know, Rockford,
I've done things the hard way
all my life.
You're okay, Rockford.
You got style.
Come on, Papa,
let's dance.
(LIVELY MUSIC PLAYING)
Yeah, he's got style.
But you still
need a shower.
one of our people,
Sweet Tooth London?
I've met him.
You tried to kill him.
What happened?
You tell me, you tell me!
I thought you said
these guys was creampuffs.
Well, to tell you the truth,
con to con, I'd just be
lost in a deal like that.
I don't even balance
my checkbook too well.
Please, you've got to
help him, Mr. Rockford.
Well, I got to admit what
I got in mind is not exactly
on the up-and-up but...
You mean
we should hit him?
Nothing's changed.
Oh, yes, it has.
You see, we've kidnapped
Paulette DiMinna.
I like to do things
with just a little
more finesse.
So, if you want my help,
you're gonna have to put away
your brass knucks
and do it my way!
You kidnapped this girl
and you expect me
to pay the ransom?
$250,000 by midnight.
If you want to wait
in the alley, slick,
I'll meet you out there
in a few minutes.
I'm a spur-of-the-moment guy.
I don't wait in alleys.
You mess with me,
you're taking a chance.
You mess with my daughter
and you're dead.
(PHONE RINGING)
ROCKFORD:
(ON ANSWERING MACHINE)
This is Jim Rockford.
At the tone, leave your name
and message.
I'll get back to you.
(BEEPS)
MAN: Sorry, Jim.
This is for Rocky.
Hey, Rock. Stan.
Got that redhead
and her sister.
10:30, Macy's Grill.
(LAUGHING)
(KNOCKING ON DOOR)
Who is it?
MAN: Joey here?
No, I'm sorry.
He should be
at the restaurant.
Who are you?
Who are you?
Are you nuts?
Come here.
I asked you
where Joey was.
You don't have to find him.
He'll find you!
This worth much?
Not what it's going to
cost you.
(SLAPPING)
ROCKFORD: What was
that again?
BETH: What?
What you just said.
Oh, I thought that
while we're
at the restaurant,
you might like to talk
to a friend of mine.
Joey Blue Eyes,
who owns the restaurant,
'cause he has
a little problem and I thought
you might like to help.
That's what
I thought you said.
Well, then your
hearing's just fine.
Congratulations, Jim.
Joey Blue Eyes?
He wouldn't be a hood now,
would he?
A reformed hood,
like you.
His real name
is Joseph DiMinna.
We're going to dinner
on a date, right?
Right.
So what's all this talk
about a charity case?
I don't want to
talk to some guy
about his problems.
I got problems
of my own.
Well, that's just great, Jim.
And if I do say so myself,
a little bit selfish.
I'm a selfish guy.
Well, we have reservations.
If you don't want
to talk to Joey,
you don't have to.
Deal.
Before we get
to the restaurant,
let me tell you a little bit
about the problem he has.
(SOFT MUSIC PLAYING ON PIANO)
Here he comes.
Be nice.
Are you kidding?
Take a full-blooded jerk
to smart off
to anything that big.
JOEY: Hi, honey.
Hi, Joey.
I hear you done time
in Quentin.
Well, thanks.
It's nice to meet you, too.
Like your dinner?
Yeah, just great.
You got a nice
restaurant here.
Did you tell him?
Well, sort of. I told him
you had a problem.
I went into a few details.
Everybody's got problems,
Mr. DiMinna.
It's part of the joy of life.
What's he talking about?
He's just kidding.
Now listen, pal,
Beth here said
you can help me,
that you done time.
Now, I've been on my own
all my life.
I got this here joint,
but I'm up to my knees
in airtight clauses
and holding companies
that don't hold nothing.
Now, Beth said you can help me
and I figure you're an ex-con.
Well, maybe
we should parley.
Now, I don't need a comic.
I need a guy
who can help me
out of this jam.
Well, listen,
Mr. DiMinna.
Joey. Just call me Joey.
Right. Listen, Joey,
what I meant was
I'm semi-retired right now.
I like to keep
my hand in.
I'll go out and try to
find a car to repossess
or something like that.
But, what Beth tells me,
you've got heavy
corporate problems,
maybe even a nice,
juicy fraud case.
Well, to tell you the truth,
con to con, I'd just be
lost in a deal like that.
I don't even balance
my checkbook too well.
So I think we ought to
get our check and just
mosey right along, huh?
This chicken-hearted creep
is the honest John
you said could help me?
Well, now, be nice, Joey.
Just 'cause I don't want
to get messed up...
Drift, mister.
Get out of my joint!
Now, wait a minute.
You heard me.
Well, I'd like it better
if you said "please."
You're gonna rot
waiting for that.
Please stop it.
Well, tell this guy
to back off.
Joey, please!
Mr. DiMinna, telephone.
Later.
It's the hospital,
an emergency. I think
you should answer it, sir.
If you want to wait
in the alley, slick,
I'll meet you out there
in a few minutes.
I'm a spur-of-the-moment guy.
I don't wait in alleys.
Well, that was some great
macho performance.
Look, Beth,
we came here for dinner.
Your friend barges in,
250 pounds of gristle
dressed up like Fred Astaire.
What am I supposed to do,
just roll over and say,
"Please don't hurt me"?
Well, I'm sorry.
I don't like him.
I don't want to work for him.
And that's my prerogative.
You're right.
I'll walk.
Now, Beth...
Let go of my arm,
please.
Well, what was I
supposed to do?
You didn't have to
act like some sort of
high school dropout
who's gonna go
get in a fight
behind the gym.
All right, I'm sorry.
That was stupid.
You didn't give him
a chance.
Taxi, please.
No, no, no. Here.
Get my car.
You're not gonna
take a taxi.
Oh, Jim, tell him
you're sorry.
Why doesn't he tell me
he's sorry?
Okay, I'll tell him.
Move! Will you?
Well, you got to admit
he's just a little
hard to talk to.
(TIRES SCREECHING)
ROCKFORD: A new place opened
out on the pier.
You want to try
their coffee?
BETH: Thanks.
It's a little late.
For what?
For coffee.
Beth, Joey and I don't
like each other.
We're not gonna
be buddies.
We're not even gonna end up
trading baseball cards.
Does it have to
spoil the evening?
Of course not.
We won't even discuss it.
Fine.
Why don't you just
come right out and say
you don't care about
anybody but yourself?
I don't care about
anybody but myself.
That's a rotten thing
to say.
Okay. Okay,
I'll talk to him.
Forget it.
Well, you know
something, Beth?
It's not all my fault.
He wasn't exactly charming.
Yeah.
Joey used to be
a collector for the mob.
He must've broken
a lot of bones in his day.
Then about 10 years ago
he got caught and
they put him in jail.
When he got out,
he tried to go straight.
I never saw anybody
try so hard.
You, of all people,
must know how tough
it can be.
Okay. Okay.
Well, about five years ago,
when he got out,
he decided to go into
the restaurant business.
And he got a little place
and he made a go of it.
Well, he wanted to expand,
so he brought in a partner,
a man named Striker.
They signed a lot of contracts
set up by Joey's lawyer,
a man named
Larry Mitchell...
who, as it turns out,
was working under the table
for Striker.
They gave Joey 49%
of the Slammer restaurants,
plus full ownership
of the supply companies.
The idea was
that in four years
Joey would have the option
to buy his partners out
at a fixed price
and own
the whole restaurant.
His option date
comes up in two days.
Only all of the assets
he thought he had turned out
to be nothing but paper.
Right.
Now they want to franchise
the Slammer restaurants.
It's worth a fortune.
But Joey's partners
have it rigged
so that he won't be able to
exercise his option.
Well, can't you sell
the subsidiary companies
for anything?
Oh, I tried to sell
some of them this afternoon
to come up with the cash.
It turns out they're all
deeply in debt.
In fact, they're in debt
to the restaurant itself,
which Joey doesn't own
controlling interest in.
Now his partners want
to foreclose on him
to force the debts
that they imposed upon him.
And he's gonna lose
the whole shebang.
Sounds like he got
fleeced pretty good.
If he's a little
brusque and angry,
maybe you can understand
that he's...
in a lot of trouble.
And... And he's about
to lose his dream.
Okay, I forgive.
Will you do me a favor?
It depends.
Would you talk
to Paulette?
Who's Paulette?
Joey's daughter.
She's a friend of mine.
We went to school together.
Well, that makes
more sense.
You're doing it for Paulette,
not that overstuffed gorilla.
Jim!
I'll meet her. Okay?
MITCHELL: I know the law firm.
They're pretty heavy.
But I don't know who she is
or why she's involved
in Joey's case.
He's got a new lawyer,
that's all.
Probably doesn't
trust you, Mitchell.
Can't say as I blame him.
So what should I
tell her?
Just what I pay you for,
nothing.
That's a point
I've been meaning
to bring up, Mr. Striker.
I think my retainer
should be higher.
We've got a contract
with you, Mitchell.
So did Joey.
Say another $1,000
a month?
You blackmailing me, Larry?
If you want to
call it that.
I'll take care of you, Larry.
You can depend on it.
You seen Sweet Tooth?
I want to
talk to him.
SWEET TOOTH:
Joey, what are you doing?
Joey, wait a minute.
You mess with me,
you're taking a chance.
You mess with my daughter
and you're dead!
Wait a minute.
Wait a minute, Joey.
It wasn't me.
It wasn't me,
it was Shep.
I didn't have
nothing to do with it.
It was an accident.
So is this.
WOMAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Doctor Ray.
Doctor Marianne Ray.
Please pick up
the house phone.
I just got word
from my service
when I got home.
Thank God
you're all right.
I'm fine, really.
You're Mr. Rockford?
Yeah, Jim. Yeah.
Does Joey know?
He's already been
and gone.
Where to?
I don't know.
I mentioned a name I heard
of one of the men
who beat me up,
Sweet Tooth,
and Dad took off
out of here like a train.
Who were they?
Who's Sweet Tooth?
I haven't the slightest.
Beth, you've got to
do something.
Dad can't afford
any more trouble.
Did you talk
to Mitchell?
Mitchell. Isn't that
Joey's lawyer?
The one who suckered him
into this deal?
Turns out
he's on Striker's payroll.
$36,000 a year.
So I hit him
with a threat of
conflict of interest
and told him I'd take him
to the Bar Association.
What happened?
He laughed.
Turns out the law firm
has the contract
with Striker Industries
not Mitchell personally.
Pursuant to.
Pursuant to just more of
that fine print wallpaper
attorneys play with.
I didn't mean you, Beth.
I know.
Well, what do we do?
Well, you need a CPA,
not a PI.
We tried that.
Their books
are pure fiction.
But by the time I could
get it into court,
Joey would already
have forfeited his option
and we'd be out with nothing.
Do you have any ideas,
Mr. Rockford?
Oh, Jim doesn't
want to help, Paulette.
Why?
He doesn't like
your father.
Oh, Beth!
Beth, I didn't say that.
Oh, I'm sorry.
I thought that was it.
Please, you've got to
help him, Mr. Rockford.
He needs somebody.
He needs a friend.
(STAMMERING)
Well, I sort of...
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yes?
Hello?
Oh, no.
When?
Okay.
I'll see what I can do.
Thanks.
You've got to help him.
He's back in jail.
Well, what did you
expect me to do? Kiss him?
He beat up on Paulette.
You wouldn't understand.
Not assault
and battery I don't.
And more than that,
you promised to stay cool.
Well, not when it
comes to family!
Now Sweet Tooth
should have known better.
At least he does now.
You got to do that?
Old habits.
How did you
get into Sweet Tooth
for $50,000, anyway?
Well, he's a shark!
Who else I got
collateral with?
I didn't ask you that,
I asked you why.
Now, what are you,
into book or what?
I needed the money
to pay off Striker.
To pay off, to buy back
my own joint.
You didn't mention
where you got the money.
Well, does it
make a difference?
Now, look, do I
get out of here or not?
It's in the works.
You're just lucky
he wouldn't sign
the complaint.
Yeah, I'll bet
he wouldn't.
Come on, come on,
let's shake this place.
Hey, what are you,
in a hurry to get back and
slap Sweet Tooth around again?
If it would help,
you're damn right!
Right over the side!
Joey, it's gonna
work out.
Yeah, I've heard
that story before!
Yeah, well, we've heard
your story, too,
and it doesn't start
with "once upon a time"
and the way you're going,
it's not gonna end up
"they lived happily
ever after."
Now look, Rockford,
what are you doing here,
anyway?
You come here
to needle me?
What's your story,
Rockford?
Okay, Joey.
I'll give it to you.
I think you're nothing
but a skull crusher
who slings hash on the side.
If you got a problem,
the only way you can figure
out is to lay somebody up.
Jim, stop it.
No, no, Beth,
let me finish.
I never wanted in
on this thing
and if I'm gonna go along,
I got to tell Mr. Blue Eyes
how it's gonna play.
I have a certain style
in this kind of thing.
It doesn't include
hospitalization.
I like to do things
with just a little
more finesse.
So if you want my help,
you're gonna have to
put away your brass knucks
and do it my way!
You got a lot
of guts, Rockford.
Nobody ever talked
to me like that.
Well, if I'm gonna
go along,
it's gonna cost you
$200 a day plus expenses
starting last night.
You're free to go.
You can pick up
your personal effects
at Property, main building.
Okay, Rockford.
I'll play it your way.
Where do we go
from here?
Well, the first thing
you do
is put your hands
in your pockets
and you keep them there.
Then what?
Then we go talk
to Sweet Tooth London.
It don't matter, dummy.
You know, he's gonna
get his someday.
Don't worry about it.
Shep, always
business first, right?
I could
take care of him.
All right.
Now wait a minute, Joey.
Everything's fine.
I dropped all the charges,
now you know that.
Prizes come in
the Cracker Jack boxes.
I want to talk to you.
Now hold it, Joey.
Let me talk to him
in private first, okay?
Wait for me here?
You, too, pal.
Stay here and
keep him company.
I'm Jim Taggart.
Joey's lawyer.
I think maybe
I got a deal for you.
SWEET TOOTH: We got no deal
that I can see.
That guy's into me
for a bundle of $50,000.
And I've gone far enough
not nailing him
for 10 to 20.
Ah, well, that's
real big of you.
Of course, it couldn't
have anything to do
with the fact that...
he couldn't pay you back
if he was in jail.
Go ahead and talk.
I got to work.
Yeah, I just want you
to lend Joey another $200,000.
You're a funny man!
Well, Joey owes you $50,000.
And if he loses
the restaurant,
you're left eating it.
Maybe.
Yeah, maybe.
And maybe if you
loan him the money,
he regains control
of the restaurant
and the profits,
and he pays you back.
I don't back horses
with heart conditions, pal.
If he goes broke,
you're left with the short end
of nothing.
SWEET TOOTH: Not me.
The people I got to
answer to that,
they don't like shakedowns
unless they're shaking.
You tell that to Joey
for me and for them.
If he don't get it up
by Friday, he's gone.
And so is his daughter.
Well, who's pushing you
into anything?
You're the one
that said he could do it.
I said it because
you're always coming on
like you were in a foxhole
with me in Anzio.
I'm always owing you a favor
'cause you saved my life.
I don't even want you
to consider that.
Hmm.
Look, I did
what I had to do
for a friend.
The only time my life
needs saving is when I get
mixed up with you.
Let me ask you something.
Why do I have to be
the one to go into the pit?
Comes to con,
you're the champion.
Well, you're right there.
But, you know,
you've got experience.
You've been a book.
Numbers, Jimmy, numbers!
Now, guys into booking,
that's a whole other thing!
Ain't no respectability.
Yeah, I'm sorry about that.
Except you've got
the right attitude.
You know,
that's the important thing.
Attitude, my ear!
Why don't you go in
and give Striker
some of that grease!
Well, if I could,
believe me, Angel, I would.
But, I've got to
keep a free hand in case
this thing doesn't work.
Now that's fantastic!
Never mind about your hand,
what about my head?
Come on, Angel,
this is Wall Street,
not Main Street.
Worse that could happen
to you is somebody maybe
stab you with a pen.
Are you sure?
Yeah. Just keep chewing.
What if this Striker
doesn't buy it?
Well, then say thank you
and give him a line
on the Dow Jones.
But don't mention
my name.
Right behind me,
huh, Lieutenant?
Go on.
Is that it?
Yes, thank you.
Muriel, send
Mr. London in.
Mr. London?
Good to see you.
This is Mr. Barrow.
How do you do?
Hey, it's a pleasure.
You're an associate
of Joey DiMinna's,
I understand.
I wouldn't give him
the time to die.
But he owes me $50,000,
which he gave to you.
Really?
What kind of business
are you in, Mr. London?
I'm a banker.
20% per week.
A shylock, you mean.
We all do business
like we can, don't we?
And I admire your style.
Now, Mr. London, you said
when you phoned for
this appointment that you...
That I could save you
some money. And I can.
Now you see, Joey's
into me for $50,000
plus interest.
My money, which he paid
to you for the first option
on his restaurant.
Now, he gave me
all the details
under some pressure,
I will admit.
Well, now, let me make
one thing clear.
Where Mr. DiMinna
got his money
to pay off the option
is of no concern
to this corporation.
There is no legal...
Hey, don't waste my time
with that New Jersey
dialogue, partner!
I got attorneys
and accountants, too.
You see, Joey gave me
the quick story.
He said that he needed
$50,000 to beat off
the wolves.
Normally, he's a tuna,
so I give it to him.
$50,000! Now what
you think?
He don't pay back,
he comes back and he says
he needs $200,000 more.
And if I don't cough,
he chokes. And so do I.
So you want
$200,000 from me.
Your interest rates
have gone up.
Times are rough.
$200,000 for what?
So that I don't lay
the same zeroes off
on Joey.
See, I give him
the $200,000 he wants,
he gives it to you
and you're out.
Now what do you figure those
new franchise restaurants
are worth?
Joey mentioned the sum
of about $8 million wrapped up
into them already,
so I figure,
what's another $200,000?
You make a present of it
to me, and I get lost.
You're in and he's out.
I'm prepared to make you
a counter-offer.
Zero.
Well, maybe I didn't
make the point clear enough.
It's terribly clear.
I'm not interested.
Good day, Mr. London.
I said, good day.
Burt, I don't like this.
If they lend Joey the money,
he'll pay us off
and we're out.
It's a bluff!
There are too many "ifs."
If they were that smart.
If they even had it
to begin with.
It's a wonder he didn't
ask me to validate
his parking ticket.
Still, it doesn't hurt
to make sure.
This is Mr. Striker.
Is Gannon around?
Well, get him. Hurry up.
I didn't mean it that way.
That's just not
good business.
It's not smart.
Stick to your books.
I'll run the company.
Gannon?
There's something
I want you to do.
What happened?
You tell me, you tell me!
I thought you said
these guys was creampuffs!
Well, nobody's perfect,
Angel.
(METALLIC RATTLING)
You got me in
some trouble, Jimmy.
Aw, Angel, it's not
that bad.
You got me in some trouble
and I ain't listening
to any "Aw, Angel"
or anything like that.
Now what I'm doing
is I'm telling you
you got to get me out.
Those guys are looking
to dust me.
And I'm telling you
I don't want to be dusted.
I'd hate to die just yet.
Really hate it.
I'll look into it.
Yeah, I'd appreciate it.
Now let's get out of here.
Pop!
All right. All right.
So I'm cool.
Now look, Rockford,
I've been hoping to make it
as polite as you and Beth.
But so far,
nobody is hitting
like Joe DiMaggio.
We just haven't
turned it around yet,
that's all.
Day after tomorrow
is Friday.
Did you give Dominic
another raise?
Well, he's a good kid.
Besides, he's getting married!
Look, this is all
very nice,
but it's not gonna
help us out with this thing.
People have to get paid,
even if we're not around.
You know,
talk about laying down,
it seems to me
I've been paying you
for a lot of time's worth
that's going
absolutely nowhere!
All your tap-dancing
has got us
is a promise
from Sweet Tooth
and Striker to pipe us!
Yeah. Well, now you got
a friend of mine
in your spotlight.
Your friend Angel?
Yeah.
I'm sorry that
had to happen.
Yeah. Well, the only reason
he's in trouble
is 'cause I made the mistake
of picking up on your case!
Well, tell him to wrap it!
And you, too!
Well, all right.
You just point me
to the right hole!
You're the expert!
Now look, Rockford...
Do it, by God!
Go ahead, do it!
Kill each other!
Well, I'm sorry, honey.
It's my fault, I guess.
You're telling me
like your mama,
but I just don't listen.
Hey...
remember what
your mama used to say,
the only thing I could
get into my ears
are knuckles.
I'm sorry, Rockford.
You didn't want in
and I guess you tried.
Yeah, just not
enough, I guess.
Well, it never is enough.
They break your back.
They tell you,
"You should try harder."
You should walk straight
with a broken back!
I never asked
for anything special.
I made mistakes.
I paid for my county shoes.
Total nine years,
ever since I was 14.
Pretty dumb, right?
PAULETTE: It's all dumb.
Playing by the rules
that don't mean what they say.
Well, maybe that's
what we're doing wrong.
So far all we've
given them is words,
and the only thing
they really care about
is what's written
on the bottom line.
Paulette, didn't you say
that the restaurant,
all the contracts, everything
are in your name, right?
Well, you know
how it is.
When you're in prison
they teach you how
to make license plates,
when they let you out,
they won't let you have one.
Pop's got a felony record,
and if you want
a liquor license,
owner of name's
got to be clean.
That's why I'm the real boss.
Right, Pop?
The one and only.
Not like your mama, though.
Don't worry. We'll get by.
Thanks for your help,
Jim.
And I'm sorry
that we both got
a little emotional.
Now all we've got to do is,
we got to get Striker down
out of that fancy office
and into the street.
You mean we should hit him?
Well, just enough
to make him hit back.
Oh, Jim...
Well, not real muscle.
No, it's just...
Well, I got to admit,
what I got in mind is not
exactly on the up-and-up,
but it might get
your restaurant back.
It just might.
Oh, am I glad that's over.
There won't be
any problem, Burt,
believe me.
Once you have
clear title on the restaurant,
we'll give you
every extension
on those loans possible.
Good, then you can
look for me
when you open your doors
at 10:00 tomorrow.
Listen, I can't tell you
how much I appreciate
what you're doing for us.
You're gonna get
a lot of our business.
How about a drink?
I better not.
I'm running late.
Thanks for the game.
Oh, thank you.
Hi, Burt.
How's your back swing?
Too fast.
How you doing?
Oh, all right.
You don't remember me,
do you?
Sure. Sure.
No you don't.
You never met me before.
I'm Jim Taggart.
I called your office
this morning
for an appointment,
they told me
you were out here.
What is it you're selling,
Mr. Taggart?
My company, Burt,
in a manner of speaking.
Of course,
you got to understand that,
we're not on the exchange
or anything like that,
but when it comes to
cash flow,
we're in a lot better shape
than your company.
I think you know
one of our people,
Sweet Tooth London?
I've met him.
Yeah, you sure have.
You tried to kill him.
Ed.
Mr. Taggart, I run
a very legitimate
business here.
So, if you don't mind...
So do we.
You see, I'm an accountant.
I know all your
facts and figures.
Including the fact
that the banks are
breathing down your neck.
That was Bill Evans,
the Vice President
of Home National, wasn't it?
So you see, I know that
if you don't walk into
his bank tomorrow
with lock and stock
on Joey's restaurant,
they're gonna wipe you out.
Mr. Taggart, if you're
looking to embarrass me,
I'm sure you can.
But what I told your
Mr. London still goes.
Nothing's changed.
Oh, yes, it has.
You see, we've kidnapped
Paulette DiMinna.
MAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Next up please.
Mr. Limmering, Mr. Frank,
Mr. Jenovan, Mr. O'Brien...
Mr. Taggart, I'm afraid
you've been misled.
Apparently so, into believing
that you're as smart
as you think you are.
So I'll do it by the numbers.
Paulette DiMinna signs
all the checks, all power
of attorney is vested in her.
If she turns up missing
and there's just
a hint of foul play.
One thing I don't
have to tell you is how slow
the legal system can be.
That's to protect
the innocent, of course.
It could be months,
years before the courts
give you clear title.
But then again, I guess
I'm just wasting your time.
I'm sure the banks
and Mr. Evans will be
very patient with you.
You kidnap this girl
and you expect me
to pay the ransom?
What do you think's
going to happen
when I bring the police in?
Oh, well, they'll believe you,
of course.
Just like the banks.
Well, you have no interest
in the girl.
That was a very
big pie to slice.
All we're interested in
is our $50,000 investment
plus interest.
$250,000.
I thought
it was $200,000?
Well, time is money.
$250,000 by midnight.
I can reach you
at your office?
Good. Good.
I appreciate that!
MAN: (ON P.A. SYSTEM)
Dr. Howard Burr, you have
a message at the clubhouse.
Dr. Burr.
If he's kidnapped the girl,
he can pull it off.
We can't close our financing
without the papers signed.
You don't seriously
believe him, do you?
But he just said...
Look, look, Joey knows
we can't complete the deal
without Paulette.
So he cooks up this
phony kidnapping scheme
with this Taggart.
They stash Paulette
in a motel somewhere,
then he has this character
come out here and lay
this smoke job on me,
and I'm supposed
to lay $250,000 on them.
You mean it's a con?
It's got to be.
Listen, I want you
to get up to the clubhouse
and get Gannon.
Have him tail this Taggart
right now before he gets away.
He's gonna lead us
to Paulette eventually,
and when he does,
we'll simply step in
and borrow the girl until
we sign the restaurant off.
Well, get moving.
(MAN CHATTERING
ON P.A. SYSTEM)
And still champ,
Joey Blue Eyes!
They could use that thing
as a jackhammer.
Well, yours ain't exactly
peanut butter, you know.
It's been a long time,
old buddy.
Hey, things must be
going pretty good
at that restaurant, huh?
Well, I'm trying.
Oh, I better
be getting back.
Hey, Fred, could you get me
those blueprints or maps,
whatever you call them?
Sure. It's no problem.
I know this guy
in the engineering department.
Well, I need
them right away.
What's the rush?
Joey, what are you into,
anyway?
Hey, Fred,
when I did favors
for you in the joint...
I know. You don't ask why.
I'll pick them up
in an hour, huh?
GANNON: How long does
Mr. Striker want me
to tail this guy?
As long as it takes.
Mr. Striker says
he'll lead us
to the girl eventually.
Where is he now?
He's in a restaurant.
I'm parked out in front.
Well, stay on him.
I'll be here.
ROCKFORD: Joey, no!
Joey, no.
Where is she? Where is she?
Tell me where's...
Where's Paulette?
Joey, don't.
Put that thing away!
Taggart!
No, Joey.
Where is she?
No, no, no.
Where's Paulette?
Joey, don't!
Don't do that! Joey!
Taggart!
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yeah.
GANNON: You ain't gonna
believe this, Mr. Striker.
What is it?
What happened?
I don't think
Taggart was working
with Joey Blue Eyes.
I'm sure of it.
What's wrong?
I'm parked in front
of a restaurant.
All of a sudden,
Joey comes screeching up,
goes inside,
a couple of minutes later
he and Taggart come out
having this big beef.
Suddenly Joey pulls a gun
and shoots him dead.
What?
That's right. It happened
not 30 feet away from me.
He nailed him, Mr. Striker.
Can't be.
I'm telling you I saw it.
Now, he must have been
giving it to you straight,
Mr. Striker.
He must have kidnapped
Joey's daughter.
And you know Joey's temper.
He found out about it
and he shot Taggart.
All right. All right.
Get ahold of Barrow.
Tell him we're gonna
have to get
the $250,000 ready.
Taggart's dead.
Who you gonna deal with?
He wasn't working alone.
But, Mr. Striker...
Shut your damn mouth
and do as I tell you!
Well, there's a good shirt
and a good coat
on the expense account.
Hey, Joe, I got to tell you!
You were great.
I thought you actually
wanted to kill me.
Hey, you know, that's
the first time I ever really
scratched a guy.
Really?
Hey, how about it, Angel?
Isn't it about time yet?
I don't know, Jimmy.
I think we ought to sweat him
a couple more hours.
Come on, Angel,
you're not gonna get hurt.
Well, I know that.
I just think it's
a little early yet.
Hey, Angel,
you punking out?
Me?
Me punking out!
What, are you kidding?
Well, good.
I'm actually looking
forward to this.
All right. Come on.
Let's get on the phone.
I don't... I don't have
the number, Jimmy.
It's right here.
Come on, Angel.
There's the number,
there's the phone.
Thank you, Jimmy.
(TELEPHONE RINGING)
Yeah.
Hello, this is
Sweet Tooth London.
I'm sure you remember me,
Mr. Striker.
Yeah.
I understand that you
talked with Mr. Taggart
this afternoon?
That's right.
We are ready to
make a deal, Mr. London.
Mr. Taggart had
a little accident.
We figured maybe
you arranged it.
What?
What are you talking about?
Well, the price goes up
with every failure,
Mr. Striker.
Now, that's a very sound
economic principle
which I like to observe
whenever possible.
I didn't kill him.
Come on, what are you...
What do you think
I am, anyway?
Well, I'd rather not
get into that just yet.
All right.
You have the girl,
I have the cash.
Where do you want
to make the drop?
Okay. There's a litter box
in the park
at the end of East Adams,
50 feet from the entrance.
You put the money in the box
and you clear out.
In a litter box?
As soon as you've put
the $250,000 in the box
and we get it out safely,
we'll drop the girl off
at Joey's restaurant.
Wait a minute, wait a minute.
Are you expecting us
to deliver first?
Supply and demand,
isn't that the way it works?
All right. All right.
Mr. London,
you must understand
that raising
this amount of cash
on such a short notice is...
Midnight!
He bought it?
Yeah.
They'll make the drop
and then try and kill us
when we make the pickup.
Oh, that's
a real good deal.
Oh, I knew
you'd like it, Angel.
I don't want any slip-ups,
you understand?
I want that litter box covered
from every angle.
Burt. Burt, there's no
real need for any violence.
All we've got to do
is catch them.
We make sure the girl
is safe and then we just
turn them over to the police.
Oh, fine. That's wonderful.
Just great.
All that nice publicity.
Give our investors
a great deal
of confidence in us.
All right, then
we'll just drop it.
I mean, once we
take title tomorrow,
there's nothing else
they can do.
(INTERCOM BUZZES)
Yes, Muriel.
MURIEL: The man from the bank
is here, sir.
Fine. Send him in.
Ed, you have to understand
how these kind of people work.
We have to give them
a show of force.
And I hope that's all.
Fine.
Thank you very much.
That'll be all.
I'm sorry, sir,
the bank has a policy.
I have to stay here
until you count it.
All right.
There's $250,000 here.
Sign for it, Ed.
All right. Forget it.
Forget it, we don't have time.
Where'd you
pull it, anyway?
From the Employee
Tax Reserve.
And it's got to be
back in there before Monday.
Don't worry.
It'll be back.
Get your coat.
It's gonna be cold tonight.
(CAR ENGINE STARTING)
(CAR DOOR CLOSING)
You see anything, Fulton?
Just that car went past.
This is a long way's away.
Yeah,
well, it's the easiest route.
Be careful.
Better believe it.
Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
Here comes somebody.
This must be it.
I don't know.
Just seems to be some guy
looking for some empties.
Wait a minute. Wait a minute.
Don't do anything yet.
Hold on.
I don't like it. Hit him!
Hold it right there!
Don't you move.
Hey, I'm sorry.
Honest, I didn't know
it was yours.
I got other cans.
There's cans all over town.
All right. Where's the girl?
Where's London?
Where are they?
Look, I told him I did.
I said he can keep it.
Look, I'm not trying
for trouble.
I'm just looking
for a taste.
Burt, Burt, we're home free!
I just got word from Phil
watching the restaurant!
They dropped off
the girl!
I don't get it.
They didn't even pick it up.
Well, what about him?
He's a wino!
Didn't have brains enough
to check this litter box out
in the first place.
It's over a manhole.
He stood there
with waiting arms!
Don't you understand?
You threw our money
down the sewer!
Come on. Let's go.
We really did it, honey.
Rockford, you are beautiful!
What's the matter?
Don't you want to dance?
Oh, no, no. I need
a shower first.
It was a little grimy
down there.
I still don't understand
where the money came from.
The money?
Money?
Right, the money.
Where did you get
the $250,000?
Well, I'll tell you
what we did.
We set up Striker
with a kidnapping
and sold it to him
with a phony murder.
What we did, Beth, was
we convinced Striker he should
make a donation to Joey.
That's all.
That's all.
You conned him.
Yeah, kind of.
Kind of my foot!
We had him
cleaned and pressed.
Hung him out to dry.
(SHUFFLING)
I saw him killed,
Mr. Striker.
Shut up.
We're closed for the evening.
Can't you read the sign?
I'm an owner, remember?
I come in here as I please.
Well, we'll take care
of that.
Beth, give him his check
and the option to sign.
STRIKER: You got
my money, Joey.
You think I'm gonna let you
pick up your option with it?
I don't know
what you're talking about.
You and Taggart.
Rockford. Jim Rockford.
Whatever it is,
I owe you one.
We have drawn up
a check for $250,000
and this is the signed option.
If you will initial
the places I have checked
and endorse this notarization,
I think that will
conclude our transaction.
Except we'll need
all of the accounting records
and tax files.
Please.
You think I'm gonna
sign over this place,
you're crazy.
We don't have
any choice, Burt.
Unless you'd like us
to sue you for your entire
net worth.
I'm not through
with you, you know.
Hey, slick, maybe I'm not
through with you.
Did you ever think of that?
You know, Rockford,
I've done things the hard way
all my life.
You're okay, Rockford.
You got style.
Come on, Papa,
let's dance.
(LIVELY MUSIC PLAYING)
Yeah, he's got style.
But you still
need a shower.