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.
Although there are wonderful Season 5 episodes, such as "Mr Penroy's Vacation", "The Search for Peter Kerry", "A Little Night Work", "The Sins of Castle Cove", "Fire Burn, Cauldron Bubble" and "The Last Flight of the Dixie Damsel", my vote for the best episode of the season is the first part of "Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall". The only episodes of the season to not do much for me are "Three Strikes You're Out" and particularly "Truck Stop".
The mystery is a suspenseful and thoroughly engaging one, with a cliff-hanger that leaves one on the edge of their seat as we worry about the fate of one of the show's most popular recurring characters and well drawn characters.
"Mirror, Mirror, On the Wall's" acting is very good across the board. Angela Lansbury as always in one of her best-remembered roles is terrific, as are a firm but amusing Ron Masak and charmingly curmudgeon William Windom. Ken Howard and Shelley Fabarres are very strong support, but the episode is stolen by one of the show's best ever guest supporting performances in Jean Simmons, brilliant as a writer who we at first are not sure of her motives and whether she's harmless or not.
Production values as ever are slick and stylish. Just love the Cabot Cove setting and the sense of close knit community. 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 mostly thought-provoking, light-hearted and amiable.
Overall, Season 5's highlight and one of my favourite 'Murder She Wrote' episodes. 10/10 Bethany Cox
