The famed P.I. works to uncover facts of the death of a wealthy socialite whose two grown children are accused of murdering her. Complicating matters are Rockford's omnipresent "friend" Angel, and Rockford's ex-wife Kit, a lawyer who represents the children. "The Rockford Files: I Still Love LA" from 1994 has Jim trying to sell his Malibu trailer in the midst of the riots after the Rodney King verdict, the fires that hop the Pacific Coast Highway and head his way, and a visit from Angel (Stuart Margolin). <br/><br/>Then his ex-wife Kit (Joanna Cassidy) appears. Yes, Jim was married and divorced since we last saw him. She wants him to work for her, at the behest of her children, investigating the murder of an old film star and the disappearance of her car. The woman's children are a quick-to- anger Josh (Geoffrey Nauffts) and his sobbing sister Dorie (Shannon Kenny). Ultimately, thanks to a security camera, Dennis (Joe Santos) arrests both of them.<br/><br/>The problem occurs when Jim begins working at cross-purposes with Kit, who hired him and is trying to prepare a defense. The kids' stepfather (Joe Campanella), a famous ball player, becomes the subject of unsavory accusations that led to the murder.<br/><br/>This is perhaps heavier than the normal Rockford fare, but most of it is handled in the usual Rockford way. <br/><br/>You had to feel sorry for poor James Garner - he's limping in the movie. An excuse for Jim's injury is given, but I think it was Garner really limping as he runs and does stairs! <br/><br/>The assembled cast does an excellent job, the beautiful Cassidy effectively sparring with Jim, the kids come off as brats, Campanella is distinguished and sad, and Laurence Pressman does a good job as a shady attorney.<br/><br/>A sweet ending is followed by a tribute to Noah Berry, Jr. Fans of the "Rockford Files" series will be glad to see the return of Jim Rockford and some of his supporting players, and many elements of the series make this telefilm watchable. The plot of this film is not the best, however; the central mystery is neither intricate nor particularly suspenseful. What dominates the action is a prevalent cynicism about our show business society in general and Hollywood in particular. The guest actors do a fine job, particularly Joanna Cassidy and Geoffrey Nauffts, but the tawdry little story at the center of the film leaves a bitter taste in the mouth.
Raylekas replied
356 weeks ago