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.
"Magnum On Ice" is actually the concluding half of a two part crossover, the first half being on 'Magnum P.I' and named (if remembered correctly, apologies if wrong) "Novel Connection". That half is the better half, despite everything being tied up and more than satisfactorily explained. There was just some gleeful creation of motivation and suspicion, which "Magnum On Ice" didn't for my liking have enough of, focusing more on explanation of what happened and reasons for how everybody is acting.
It's an entertaining enough watch, but it could have been more compelling considering the enormous potential it had. The exquisite location of Hawaii, two great characters in Jessica Fletcher and Magnum and actresses like Jessica Walter and Dorothy Loudon along for the ride. Potential not entirely lived up to. Particularly in the case of Loudon, who is far too subdued agreed in a dull role that she does nothing with. The others actually fare well.
Pacing could have been sharper in places and some of the Hawaiian music agreed sounds inauthentic, cheap-sounding and doesn't hold up that well.
However, the production values are high in quality as to be expected, with slick photography and the Hawaiian setting does look exquisite. Mostly, 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.
Much of the writing is thought-provoking and amiable and the second half of the episode where things especially get tied up and more happens is very engaging.
Angela Lansbury is great as always, as is Tom Selleck. Jessica Walter doesn't disappoint in her guest performance.
In conclusion, pretty good but could have been better. 7/10 Bethany Cox
