'Santa Goes Downtown' is a poignant, appealing second episode in which a derelict (the great character actor Jeff Corey, "True Grit") who genuinely believes himself to be Santa Claus is brought before Judge Stone. "Santa" charms the spectators in this court while two runaway teens / shoplifters (played by Michael J. Fox, and Olivia Barash of "Repo Man") are brought in next. From then on, Harry and "Santa" fight hard to instill a sense of belief in these two troubled kids.
The usual generous array of very funny lines are supplemented by some real heart in this script by series creator Reinhold Weege. You really come to love "Santa" (who would seem to be on the level) and care for the kids, despite Eddie (Fox) being mouthy and defiant. The episode also shows how much Harry likes to make a difference in the lives of some of the people brought before him.
The guest stars all deliver right-on-the-money performances; Fox gets "special guest star" billing since 'Family Ties' had already made him a known actor, and he's convincing as the bratty boy who's really just crying out to be loved. Corey is simply wonderful as the gin-loving old man who possesses knowledge that can't be easily explained away. Other guest stars include the prolific comedy character actor Richard Stahl ('It's a Living'), the enticing Rita Taggart ("Mulholland Dr.") in her recurring role of prostitute Carla B., and veteran George D. Wallace ("Radar Men from the Moon"). Paula Kelly ("Soylent Green") joins the cast here as public defender Liz Williams, whom she would play for the rest of the first season.
Good entertainment overall; the final moment with Selma is simply priceless.
Eight out of 10.
