My only complaints of this otherwise brilliant episode are the ending, which felt rather rushed for my liking though I loved the twist involving the dogs, and while she plays her part very well Kim Catrall's character does drag the episode down a tad.
However, How to Dial a Murder is evident proof of why I love Columbo so much. It has an ingenious premise that is done justice by a story that is clever and compelling. It has strong writing, with great interaction between Columbo and Mason and I cannot think of rosebud the same way now now that I have seen this episode. It is well shot, with striking locations and lovely photography. It also has one of the most haunting and most effective music scores I have heard in a Columbo episode.
The acting is great, and the direction is solid. Kim Catrall is good, but it is Columbo and Mason that make the episode work along with the premise. Peter Falk is exceptional once again, while Nicol Williamson does a wonderful job playing one of the most ruthless and most strongly written murderers in the Columbo line.
All in all, if you love Columbo, you'll love this. 9/10 Bethany Cox
However, How to Dial a Murder is evident proof of why I love Columbo so much. It has an ingenious premise that is done justice by a story that is clever and compelling. It has strong writing, with great interaction between Columbo and Mason and I cannot think of rosebud the same way now now that I have seen this episode. It is well shot, with striking locations and lovely photography. It also has one of the most haunting and most effective music scores I have heard in a Columbo episode.
The acting is great, and the direction is solid. Kim Catrall is good, but it is Columbo and Mason that make the episode work along with the premise. Peter Falk is exceptional once again, while Nicol Williamson does a wonderful job playing one of the most ruthless and most strongly written murderers in the Columbo line.
All in all, if you love Columbo, you'll love this. 9/10 Bethany Cox