AllMovie

In the first episode of a two-part story, Solo and Illya investigate the total destruction of an African village. The two agents follow the trail of clues to Iran, where mad scientist Pavis Kharmusi (John Dehner) has developed a thermal death ray. Enlisting the aid of safecracker Luther Sebastian (Bradford Dillman), who also fronts a cult called the Third Way, the Men from U.N.C.L.E. break into Kharmusi's fortress and attempt to steal the prism which powers the ray. Their efforts are almost stymied by the arrival of Annie Justin (Carol Lynley), who has a personal grudge against Sebastian. Written by Dean Hargrove, "The Prince of Darkness Affair, Pt. 1" first aired on October 2, 1967; one year later, parts one and two were merged into the theatrical feature The Helicopter Spies.