Ep 2. Here's Looking At You, Kid

Ralph Hinkley, a high school teacher, is given a red suit by the unknown aliens that bestow him with superpowers. However, he is still learning how to use them, so his attempts to utilize his powers tend to end in comedic and often disastrous results. In season 1, episode 2, titled "Here's Looking At You, Kid," Ralph works to assist FBI agent Bill Maxwell in tracking down a missing scientist who has developed a new light-bending technology. Despite initial reluctance from Ralph, he eventually agrees to help when he learns that the scientist's daughter, Cindy, is in danger as well. Along the way, Ralph confronts his own doubts and insecurities as he struggles to control his new powers and work with Bill, who is a gruff and unyielding mentor.

The episode opens with Ralph and his girlfriend, Pam, attending a dinner party at the home of Kenyon Lockwood, a wealthy entrepreneur and philanthropist. Lockwood is excited about a new technology that he believes can revolutionize the energy industry, and he is hosting a group of investors to pitch his idea. However, the presentation is interrupted when Lockwood's head of research and development, Dr. Benjamin, suddenly disappears. The guests are shocked, but Bill Maxwell shows up at the party and quickly takes charge of the investigation. He enlists Ralph's help, explaining that Dr. Benjamin is the only scientist who knows how to operate the new technology, and that its potential as a weapon could have dire consequences if it falls into the wrong hands.

Initially reluctant to get involved, Ralph ultimately agrees to help Bill find Dr. Benjamin when he learns that Benjamin's daughter, Cindy, is also missing. Ralph and Bill visit the scientist's laboratory, where they find evidence of a struggle and a clue that leads them to a seedy nightclub. Ralph is dressed in his red suit, but he quickly realizes that he isn't sure how to use his powers effectively. His attempts at using his flying ability to scan the area draw unwanted attention from the club's security, and he is forced to improvise to avoid a fight. Bill, meanwhile, is accosted by a tough bouncer, but he manages to devise a clever plan to get into the club and search for Cindy and Dr. Benjamin.

As Ralph becomes more frustrated with his inability to control his powers, he takes a moment to reflect on his motivations for helping Bill. He is still haunted by the memory of a student who died in a lab accident, and he worries that he might not be cut out for heroism. However, he is inspired to keep trying when he overhears a conversation between two of the club's patrons. They are discussing the new technology and its potential to cause harm, and Ralph realizes that stopping the wrong people from getting their hands on it is important work.

Bill and Ralph eventually find Dr. Benjamin and Cindy hiding in a secret room at the club. They are alarmed to learn that Lockwood, the businessman behind the energy technology, is actually a former Nazi who is intent on using the light-bending technology to develop a new weapon. Despite their surprise, Bill and Ralph are determined to stop Lockwood and save the day.

The climax of the episode features a daring fight scene in which Bill, Ralph, and Cindy work together to fight off Lockwood's goons and retrieve the invention. Ralph finally gets a chance to use his powers to full effect, and he surprises himself with his newfound confidence. In the end, the good guys prevail, and Ralph and Bill share a moment of camaraderie as they reflect on their successful mission.

Overall, season 1, episode 2 of The Greatest American Hero is a fun, action-packed adventure that showcases the show's unique blend of humor and heroism. Ralph's journey of self-discovery is both relatable and entertaining, and his bumbling attempts at heroism are balanced by Bill's tough-guy persona and Cindy's pluckiness. With its mix of science fiction, comedy, and heart, the show continues to be a beloved classic of late '70s and early '80s television.