I thought I knew all the classic Columbo films of the 1970's. I was surprised and happy when I bought Season 3 on DVD to find this title which I didn't recognise and don't remember seeing on TV.
Even better, this is a great episode, probably one of the finest in showing us how Columbo's mind works: picking up on the anomalies in an apparently obvious situation, the 'loose ends' that nag at him until he finds the truth. In this case it is what is *absent* from the crime scene that tells him this is not simply a robbery that went too far.
Columbo's greatness as a character lies not just in his detective skills, but the desire for truth and justice which is rooted in his basic humanity. Here he is up against very powerful forces that could cost him his career and he still won't give up on his ideas about the case.
'A Friend In Deed' breaks with the classic Columbo formula (villain carries out 'perfect' crime and is relentlessly hunted down by Lt. C) in that the plot begins by chance then develops a life of its own. This makes for a more realistic story, tighter dramatic situations and more suspense for the viewer.
You have to wonder why this particular villain thought he could get away with it, however. Surely he must have known Columbo - by reputation at least.
This is an excellent Columbo, a classic detective movie in its own right, and very well worth watching.
Even better, this is a great episode, probably one of the finest in showing us how Columbo's mind works: picking up on the anomalies in an apparently obvious situation, the 'loose ends' that nag at him until he finds the truth. In this case it is what is *absent* from the crime scene that tells him this is not simply a robbery that went too far.
Columbo's greatness as a character lies not just in his detective skills, but the desire for truth and justice which is rooted in his basic humanity. Here he is up against very powerful forces that could cost him his career and he still won't give up on his ideas about the case.
'A Friend In Deed' breaks with the classic Columbo formula (villain carries out 'perfect' crime and is relentlessly hunted down by Lt. C) in that the plot begins by chance then develops a life of its own. This makes for a more realistic story, tighter dramatic situations and more suspense for the viewer.
You have to wonder why this particular villain thought he could get away with it, however. Surely he must have known Columbo - by reputation at least.
This is an excellent Columbo, a classic detective movie in its own right, and very well worth watching.