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.
"Coal Miner's Slaughter" is not one of my favourite episodes of Season 5 or of 'Murder She Wrote' in general. It is still very good nonetheless and to me is ranked among the better "Jessica getting involved in murder in a small town" episodes. There is actually not that much wrong with it, though that the killer's identity wasn't a shock to me and the way they're found out being on the lazy side was disappointing. The motive was not so obvious though.
The episode is particularly worth seeing for the cast. Not only the dependably great Angela Lansbury, but Megan Mullally (who has never looked so young) is also absolutely terrific as are Hoyt Axton and Chuck Connors. Denver Pyle is a natural presence too.
Mystery-wise, it's a fun and intriguing one. It's set up very well and, while it's a little formulaic, moves along at a neat pace. Only the conclusion could have been done a little better.
Production values as ever are slick and stylish with a highly atmospheric setting. 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.
In summary, very good and worth seeing for the cast in particular. 8/10 Bethany Cox