Classic 'Hawaii Five-0' episode from 1973 gets a makeover

It was a case of deja vu when “Hawaii Five-0” on CBS decided to honor the classic series once again Monday night. Instead of a character from the past, such as Ed Asner as August March in a 1975 episode, they went back to September 1973.

“Hookman” was the original title, and remains the same in the reboot series. All titles from season one to present are in Hawaiian. However, this time “Hookman” would be given a 21st century makeover. Tampa Bay viewers with Bright House Networks saw this unique television experience on WTSP, channel 10.

If you visit CBS.com you can view the original episode. Remarkably it follows through the story’s key elements right down to the retro opening credits of “Hookman.” A few scenes were slightly changed. For instance, the intense car chase and a visit to a gun shop in Chinatown.

Hawaii Five-0 - "Hookman" Trailer/Intro/First Scene Hawaii Five-0 - "Hookman" Trailer/Intro/First Scene

Danno sure made it known by voicing his own gun control stance non-stop. Max Weinberg, drummer of the E Street Band fame, made a cameo appearance as the gun store owner. His character got an earful from McGarrett’s partner who felt strongly those type of weapons should never be sold to the public.

A lot can change with technology in nearly 40 years, including prosthetics. The episodic title was named for the hook-like hands of the sniper. He was brutally gunning down police officers responsible for his fate. On his hit list was Steve McGarrett (original) and Jack McGarrett/Steve McGarrett (reboot).

In the recent episode another actor with real-life bionic hands was used in the close-up shots. Aside from the obvious differences on vehicles, fashion, and communication devices is the interaction between McGarrett and Danno. It’s completely nonexistent in the original.