Synopsis
Another eight Columbo mystery movies are included here. The formula they follow is familiar: a murder is committed (and we generally know whodunit right off the bat), and we watch as Columbo, apparently absent-minded, closes in on the culprit, making said individual sweat like the dickens before he closes in for the kill. The episodes here also feature turns by such stars as Martin Sheen, Vincent Price and Johnny Cash, which makes this nostalgic trip all the more fun. These short movies-of-t…e-week are perfect examples of the Good Story Well Told. They are by no means challenging to the mystery genre, and their formulaic construction is very apparent. But they work within the strict parameters exceedingly well, and Peter Falk is an unceasing delight in the title role. Absolutely perfect late-night viewing.
Audio
Straigtahead 2.0 mono here. The episodes sound exactly as they would have when originally broadcast in 1973-74. In other words, there is no background noise, and everything is pretty clean, but there is a little bit of distortion on the voices now and then.
Video
The picture quality is much the same as the sound. The colours are rich, the contrasts strong, flesh tones and blacks just fine. The image is sharp, and there is no visible edge enhancement. The prints aren’t always in perfect shape, however, and there are some shots that are extremely grainy.
Special Features
There’s a bonus episode of the attempted spinoff Mrs. Columbo, but otherwise, there’s nothing here. The menu is basic.
Closing Thoughts
A shame there are, essentially, no extras here. The episodes themselves are worth picking up the package, though.
Special Features List
- “Mrs. Columbo” Episode
