The movies are on MU at the moment: hxxp://www.megaupload.com/?d=PMWQ6IH7 and hxxp://www.megaupload.com/?d=GRX0DP1Y

The first is Third Man Out and the second is Shock to the System, its sequel. Why should you watch them? nel_ani gives ten reasons here and 01100100 gives more here, as well as a photo dump here.


You'd think that for TV movies based on a series of books about private investigators, these wouldn't be that great. Admittedly, the picture quality at full-screen is less than desired and the acting at the very beginning is a little stiff, but the actors quickly fall into their roles. Donald Strachey is an unapologetic asshole, but he has his morals. Occasionally, he makes some stupid choices, but I like less than perfect characters. Timothy was in seminary school. May I repeat that? Seminary school. Their interaction is all kinds of awesome, witty and touching and funny by turns, and sometimes all at once.

The secondary characters are also enjoyable. Kenny (it is Kenny, isn't it? I couldn't make out that part of the credits at the end of the second movie) from Shock to the System is both funny and fun. My only regret about his character is that he wasn't used more. Their contractor in the first movie is great, and I love the older woman who lives by the first client.

The first movie is a little obvious and doesn't tuck in every loose thread, leaving me with a few questions unanswered and the second had moments that felt rushed, but overall both movies are well worth watching. I suggest you do so.

Personally, I'm also going to try to snag copies of the books once I'm back in the States.

Edit: And I forgot to mention: I got my copy from the wonderful 01100100. Once more, thank you, thank you, thank you.