Ep 1. A Lion in the Streets (Part 1+2)

A Lion in the Streets (Part 1+2) marks the thrilling season 12 debut of the classic crime drama Hawaii Five-O. Originally aired in two parts, this episode encompasses a riveting 90-minute storyline that encapsulates the show's hallmark blend of action-packed police work and the stunning scenic beauty of Hawaii.

The episode begins with the beautiful Hawaiian landscape as a deceivingly peaceful backdrop to the rising tension on the islands. The quiet of paradise is abruptly shattered as the Five-O team, headed by the indefatigable Captain Steve McGarrett, played by Jack Lord, finds itself thrust into the eye of a political and social storm.

As the team navigates through the labyrinth of island politics, they face an upsurge in crime that appears to be connected to a larger and more sinister plot. The law enforcers have their hands full dealing with an array of offenses from typical criminal activities to issues that touch upon the deeper roots of Hawaiian culture and the struggles of the island's native inhabitants.

The episode title, "A Lion in the Streets," is a metaphorical reference to the ferocity and courage required to face the challenges within this arc. It also hints at the presence of a formidable antagonist or a powerful force stirring beneath the surface of island life, threatening to disrupt the delicate balance that the Five-O team is sworn to protect.

Part 1 of the episode introduces the audience to a volatile situation involving local laborers and big business interests. McGarrett and his dedicated team, including the loyal second-in-command, Danny "Danno" Williams, played by James MacArthur, dive deep into an investigation that highlights the economic disparities and cultural tensions on the islands. McDonald, Kukui, and other locals are woven into the storyline, giving the episode a richer and more authentic Hawaiian flavor.

As the Five-O team peels back the layers of the complicated situation, they uncover a network of corruption that extends beyond mere street crime. The storyline is seasoned with thrilling chases, strategic crime-solving, and the unfailing dedication to justice that fans of the series expect from Hawaii's elite state police unit. It becomes apparent that the stakes are higher than ever, and the team must rely on each of their unique skills, local knowledge, and unyielding determination as they approach an explosive climax.

Part 2 of "A Lion in the Streets" escalates the action as the narrative intensifies, drawing viewers deeper into the rabbit hole of power struggles and the fight for equality. The drumbeat of Hawaiian justice grows louder as McGarrett and his team close in on the masterminds behind the turmoil. The team's dynamic interpersonal relationships, clever police work, and the leveraging of local contacts and informants all play a vital role in their quest to restore order.

Viewers are taken on an emotional roller coaster through the vibrant streets of Honolulu, the corridors of power, and the lush, secluded parts of the islands that tourists seldom see. The episode features a delicate interplay between personal and professional boundaries, as relationships are tested and loyalties are called into question amid the ever-increasing pressure to resolve the conflict.

The episode showcases the show's trademark mix of action and intellect, with high-speed pursuits, stealthy stakeouts, and raw hand-to-hand confrontations contrasted with cerebral deductions and meticulous investigative work. The beauty of Hawaii serves as a stark juxtaposition to the sinister underbelly the Five-O team uncovers.

"A Lion in the Streets (Part 1+2)" stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Hawaii Five-O, pushing the boundaries of the crime drama genre at the time and setting the tone for the final season of the series. With its notable cast, intricate plotlines, and vivid setting, this two-part episode ensures that even four decades after its initial release, the series remains a pivotal part of the television crime drama landscape.

In conclusion, this season opener not only entertains but also provides thought-provoking substance, reflecting pressing issues that were relevant during the original airing of the show and that still resonate with audiences today. "A Lion in the Streets (Part 1+2)" is a must-see episode for fans of classic action, adventure, and the beloved characters of Hawaii Five-O.