Have always been quite fond of 'Murder She Wrote'. It is a fun and relaxing watch that makes you think as you try to unwind in the evening. If one wants more complex, twisty mysteries with lots of tension and suspense 'Murder She Wrote' may not be for you, but if you want something light-hearted and entertaining but still provide good mysteries 'Murder She Wrote' fits the bill just fine.
"Smooth Operators" is towards the top end of Season 5 if not quite one of my favourites, the motivations of a few of the characters (particularly those played by a still very strong Dennis Patrick, Dirk Benedict, and Nic Coaster) being a little too on the obvious side. The mystery however is a very diverting and twisty one with no shortage of suspects.
Angela Lansbury is terrific as ever, Patrick, Benedict and Coaster clearly enjoy themselves and Barney Hamilton gives humanity to his lieutenant role. Standing out the most is Shirley Knight, a masterly class act as Grace.
Production values as ever are slick and stylish. The music has energy and has presence but also not making the mistake of over-scoring, while it is hard to forget or resist the theme tune.
The writing is thought-provoking, light-hearted and amiable, while the mystery as said intrigues and the solution is not too hard to figure out thankfully.
Overall, great episode that operates very smoothly. 9/10 Bethany Cox