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.
"Deadly Assets" is an entertaining and intriguing enough episode, if nothing mind-blowing or innovative. It's also though a somewhat strange episode, it's complicated enough with the stealing and murder crimes and then there is the addition of the mob connection, which muddled the story a little while still interesting. Maybe a little bit of suspension of disbelief is needed for the episode introducing even more characters out of nowhere in a small town with a close-knit community.
Pacing could have tightened up a little too, parts of the first half could have gotten to the point earlier than they did.
The episode is lifted by the regular/recurring cast though. Jessica Fletcher is one of Angela Lansbury's best remembered roles for good reason, while William Windom plays a curmudgeon with amusing charm and Ron Masak is an easy presence as always and never bumbling or naïve. Wayne Rogers is also fun to watch. Cabot Cove is always a welcome sight and it is always wonderful to see professionals doing it properly.
Supporting cast do a competent job, with Matt Mulhern's contribution being the most notable. Nobody's exceptional, and it's the leads that carry the episode, but there is nobody here who gives an amateur hour performance.
Mystery generally is an entertaining and intriguing one and the ending is one of the season's better ones in terms of acting, plausibility and whether it's a surprise or not.
Production values as always are slick, stylish and suitably cosy. 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 amiable and thoughtful, while the charm and tension of the cast's chemistry shine through greatly.
In conclusion, a decent episode if something of a strange one as well. 7/10 Bethany Cox