Echoing comments of most other commentators (except for the one who actually thought Andrew Stevens gave the performance of his career - what career?) - this is one of the weakest in the Columbo series. Stevens was very unconvincing as the villain - I was hoping he'd be taken away in handcuffs after the first few minutes just so I wouldn't have to bear witness to dramatic "skills" that rival those of most middle schoolers. Sadly, this did not happen and I had to put up with him for the duration.
Although I always watch these episodes through to the end, I found the break from tradition (the plot twists discussed by others, as well as the change in formula) rubbed me a bit against the grain. Changing the premise of the show, I discovered, was more a disappointment than a welcome sprucing up of what some may consider to be a dated concept.
In the end, Falk can hold his own against anyone he plays against, even if the other actors are not deserving of sharing the same space.
Not much to be missed if you pass on this one.
Although I always watch these episodes through to the end, I found the break from tradition (the plot twists discussed by others, as well as the change in formula) rubbed me a bit against the grain. Changing the premise of the show, I discovered, was more a disappointment than a welcome sprucing up of what some may consider to be a dated concept.
In the end, Falk can hold his own against anyone he plays against, even if the other actors are not deserving of sharing the same space.
Not much to be missed if you pass on this one.