David Janssen (The Fugitive) is police Sgt Tom Valens, who shoots and kills a doctor while on a stakeout. While he’s convinced that he saw the doctor with a gun, it could not be found afterwards. This, along with the fact that the doc ran from him when he made his presence felt, Valens pleads his innocence in a court case. With his future in doubt, he follows his hunch to find out where the weapon went and why the doctor got in the line of fire.
Directed by Buzz Kulik (The Hunter), Warning Shot is a riveting watch, even if it comes across as a more violent made-for-TV movie. The courtroom scenes add a new element to the gritty cop story, even though we find it hard to believe that Valens would have been allowed to conduct as much sleuthing when on suspension!
There’s a sense that the film is a precursor to movies such as Dirty Harry while maintaining an element of film noir. Keen viewers will have no problem figuring out what’s going on, but it’s still a fun ride getting there.
As well as Janssen, there’s a healthy line-up of acting talent. Ed Begley (12 Angry Men) is Valens’ surprisingly sympathetic chief, while Joan Collins is Valens’ ex-wife. Also popping up are George Sanders, Lillian Gish, Stefanie Powers, and Walter Pidgeon.
Imprint’s Blu-ray only boasts a commentary as a bonus feature, but it’s an interesting one that provides enough background to the film to keep fans happy.
Warning Shot is available on Blu-ray from the Australian label Imprint.
