Popeye Doyle is a rather obscure sequel to The French Connection and French Connection II. Made for television it was originally intended as a pilot for a television series about the further adventures of New York City Police Detective James "Popeye" Doyle. Written and produced by Richard Di Lello (who was credited for the story of the 1988 film Colors) and with Eddie Egan as technical adviser, the series was never purchased, but oremiered on NBC as a television movie in September of 1986. Ed O'Neill took over the role of Popeye and did good work, however, he chose to play the character in a lighter vein instead of the heavy and intense portrayal that made Gene Hackman famous. Unfortunately, the movie has not been released on VHS or DVD, but can be seen occasionally late at night on the Fox Movie Channel. This film was also the first screen role for veteran actor J.K. Simmons, who has a few lines as a uniformed police officer.
The following weapons were used in the film Popeye Doyle:
Mossad agent Itan Kellerman (George de la Peña) carries what appears to be be a military issue Model 1911A1 Government complete with the Parkerized finish. "Deli Bandit #2" (Phil Neilson) also carries an M1911A1.
An Uzi Submachine gun is used by Marta Spinoza (Alexandra Innes) who comes after Doyle and Parese. (Alexandra Innes is credited as "Marta Rodriguez," but "Marta Spinoza" is the only "Marta" mentioned in the film.)
