Really getting into the 70's Columbo episodes - I have seen them on TV, but on DVD without the ad breaks and the ability to pause it for making a cuppa they are brilliant in my opinion. No swearing, tight plot, good incidental music and top stars. Even Mr Spielberg directed one of the episiodes. After seeing the first few series, I am getting to understand what drives the Lieutenant now, and where the murderer slips up. It great to see him hovering just ouside the door after leaving the suspect only to come back in with a tough question under the guise of "just tying up a few loose ends you understand" or "something is bothering me". Another brilliant moment is when he asks the suspect what could have caused the death, and after they have fabricated some story he says "well that would explain it" in a totaly unconvinced voice. Peter Falk plays this part with perfection. TV as it should be!

Anyone else with me on Columbo being a TV jem?

RT

Yes, I enjoy Columbo whenever I encounter it. It holds up surprisingly well thanks largely to Peter Falk's handling of the main character and the intriguing celebrity guest stars from the days when celebrities WERE celebrities in the true sense - people you had actually HEARD of who had earned their status!

Thank Goodness Bing Crosby turned the role of Columbo down since I read he was offered the part first! I shudder to think how that might had turned out!