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.
"Mourning Among the Wisterias" is up there with "Witness for the Defense", "Old Habits Die Hard" and "Trouble in Eden" as one of my favourite episodes of Season 4 and of 'Murder She Wrote' in general. Have seen comparisons to Tennessee Williams, and can definitely see similar elements to 'Cat on a Hot Tin Roof' (the characters played by Linda Purl and Matt McCoy) and 'Sweet Bird of Youth' (like Lois Nettleton's character).
The cast are to die for and the supporting cast are one of the best of Season 4. Angela Lansbury as usual is terrific, especially in the second half. Barry Nelson, Rene Auberjonois and Lois Nettleton are the supporting cast standouts while Beah Richards has the episode's best line (again like with Patrick McGoohan in "Witness for the Defense" summing up perfectly what the viewer is thinking) "maybe he didn't think it was any of your business." Matt McCoy shows that he has some acting talent in him when the material is capable.
When it comes to the mystery, it's one of the best of the season. Very clever and engaging, with charm, fun and poignancy in spades, and never kitschy or melodramatic despite the Williams influences.
Production values are slick and stylish as ever with 'Murder She Wrote'. 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.
Writing is thought-provoking, light-hearted and amiable.
In conclusion, brilliant episode, nothing to mourn here. 10/10 Bethany Cox