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@@bradhirsch4845 You want to see me, huh? Well, maybe some day I'll show up on this channel. But if you are ultra curious about me, I show my face in the majority of my soap making videos.
@@WatchitforDays hmm. That sounds interesting. Soap-making. I dont know where to find that. I'll look. The first one I clicked on was definitely a different voice. lol Are you an uncredited extra in any TV shows or movies?
Jack Cassidy also came to quite a sticky end in real life. Burnt alive in a fire. He accidentally set fire to himself with a cigarette after falling asleep. He had tried to crawl to the front door to escape but was overcome by the fire.
He had actually passed out. Cassidy was a blackout drunk. The cigarette started the fire, but he didn't awaken in time to escape the noxious fumes and fire. Alcoholism addiction is a terrible disease with sometimes awful consequences. @@ricardojaye305
Your reviews are so thorough and hilarious! I love how you notice the random stuff like the plant hitting the ceiling or the multiple copies of the same books. The backstory on everything including the car and Spielberg is so interesting! Thanks for another great review!
@@treasurehunteruk9718 Yes but she also clearly does original research and in one episode mentioned getting help from viewers. Also the jokes are clearly original.
This is my favorite UA-cam channel.I discovered Columbo about 8 years ago on Netflix,even though I grew up in the 70's.I love the way Jack Cassidy dresses in this episode.So stylish.He is a great villain.
I agree. I only yesterday discovered this channel,and the reviews are honest,hilarious,and respectful to the show,even if the episode isn't a "5 cigar" worthy one. Also a life long Columbo fan,been watching since it originally aired.
My Mother use to watch all the mystery shows and Columbo was one of her favorites. I became big fan in the 90s and I still watch all the episodes occasionally to this day. I really enjoyed your video very much. I know each Columbo episode well but I am fascinated by the details you point out while being very entertaining. Thank you!!
You have such a great voice, as well as a wonderful eye for detail. Your wry humour and subtle modulation really come across and draw one in! SO looking forward to more.
I think the thing that uniquely stands out in these very good reviews is the time you take to credit the historically uncredited extras whose presence has been a vital ingredient to so many good stories over the years. Very cool, good work on a good video. ^_^
@@WatchitforDays Just discovering these reviews. Youre awesome! I love hearing you talk about Columbo. Do I have to subscribe to get your take on more episodes?
@@WatchitforDays I'm rewatching the one with Martin Landau now, Double Shock. Have you reviewed that one or.... the one with the middle eastern royal family, A Case Of Immunity? Im gonna have to look for more of your videos.
Wonderfully entertaining and interesting review. I watched Columbo with my father when I was a kid and have seen each episode countless times since then. I thought I knew a lot about the details and backstory of each episode but you really provided multiple fun insights and observations. Just one more thing.... keep up the great work!
Yay, these always make my day when they pop up on my UA-cam front page. Love that you always pay credit to so many unsung actors and provide history for the careers of all those extras that people usually don't pay much attention to, myself included. And your idea for the final clue was definitely better than the one in the actual episode, take that Spielberg!
My new favorite channel! I appreciate the effort you put into all the trivia. And your cute asides and jokes always bring a laugh. Keep up the great work!
I've watch d every episode of Columbo several times over since first getting hooked by reruns as a kid in the 90's; and have listened to the handful of Columbo podcasts out/consider myself a super fan- and your video essays on them are genuinely top notch, god-tier Columbo content!! Thank you so much for continuing this awesome series, and I really hope you stick with it!! Thank you so much for bringing new life to an absolutely banger of classic TV.
Wow! Your comment made my day!! Thank you very much for this wonderful kindness and encouragement 💕 I fully intend to keep working on these videos for each episode.
Steven Spielberg, after being rejected by USC (the HOT film school) simply started hanging out on the (Warners? Paramount?) movie lot and he moved into an empty office, pretending that he belonged everywhere he went on the lot. He informed no one of his little scheme and folk on the lot got used to seeing the enthusiastic young director about. He was always busy and took the time to make friends with the technicians to learn their crafts. He played the part of a director and so became one. True story.
Another fantastic review by an amazingly knowledgable researcher. Our narrator with the melodious voice speaks the language of film production, and she garners facts that most of us would be unable to ever discover...like the names of extras who have hundreds of credits but whose names are not shown on screen. How does she do that? The only way I can think of is through the unions or casting agencies, and this suggests a massive amount of work and probably some insider knowledge. Her love of Columbo is monumental, and we are indeed lucky that she is spending so much time and effort to transmit this love to us as well. Watching this video, now the third one we've seen in this analysis series, my wife said, "I like this lady." For her, that's high praise indeed!
This is so interesting. I love Colombo. I never watched it when I was a kid. I’m in my 50s now and for some reason one night I watched an episode and I’m absolutely hooked. Excellent show. I bought the box set of complete series along with the 24 TV movies recently. I’m not sure how I ever missed this great show, however I’m so happy to get to experience it and enjoy it now. Thank you for the deep dives and all the commentary.
Hello, I'm French and even if I have seen this episode several times, I never noticed the "J'acuse" and the mistake (with indeed 2 "c", not one) at the very beginning of the episode. I currently live in Paris but spent 3 years in the US, being able to watch the 69 episodes. Know that Columbo is still very popular in France and still broadcasted every Saturday night on prime time on TV. The French voice of Columbo (non-French series/movies in France are dubbed) made the Columbo characater very popular.
I saw the French dubbed episodes in the 70s, and got so used to the mellower dubbed voice, I still get a slight irritation when hearing Peter Falkvs real voice! 😂😂😂
They are playing Columbo in New Zealand at the moment so your videos are very timely. Good work on tracking down the extra players who turn up again and again unrecognised by most people. Also appreciated is the fact that unlike a lot of other creators, your videos are not constantly interrupted by ads.
I just randomly came upon this channel and found it so interesting. It's amazing how you have painstakingly researched every actor even the uncredited ones and found movies and shows in which they have appeared. Must have taken a lot of time to prepare one video of this channel. Great work!
For Spielberg fans (and if you haven't seen it already) I highly recommend "Duell", which was Spielberg's next project after Murder by the Book. Great (psychological) thriller. Brilliant for a 25-year-old Spielberg.
I just stumbled on your channel last night and it was enough to subscribe. I almost never do that. I'm absolutely hooked! Your content is right up my alley. I'm always trying to figure out where I know that side character from, who the extras are, what song is playing in the background, what ever happened to that guy, etc... you're breakdown are remarkable. Better than any glib critical review. Bravo!
I’ve own and have seen the entire series, I don’t know how many times, but I have to say that I am thoroughly enjoying every one of your posts! Very, VERY much!!!
You have a very soothing voice. You could read the phone book and I would enjoy it. So it's even better that your reviews are excellent. Love the extra details.
I love the attention to detail in your lovely deep dive series! I've watched this Columbo episode like many others multiple times but I never noticed any of these. Can't wait to chuckle seeing the skulls on the desk, the car in the wrong parking spot, the shadow of the boom mic, the grated cheese and many more on a next watching.
I can't say enough about how excellent and entertaining these reviews are. This was one of my favorite TV shows, and it came out when I was in high school and college. I've seen every episode many times, but watching your reviews is almost like seeing them for the first time again (if that makes sense). ❤
Great review, as always. Interesting connection between Rosemary Forsyth and Steven Spielberg. Its 1965's War Lord. Heston and the director Schaffner were having trouble with cost overruns and production difficulties with the studio breathing down their backs and bickering over some re-shoots that Schaffner and Heston wanted to do. There was a young man who kept hanging around the set and asking lots of questions of the crew. Both Schaffner and Heston suspected that this young man may have been a spy for the studio. But, of course, that young man was Spielberg presumably on his internship with Universal. He sat down and talked with Schaffner and Heston and insisted he had no hidden agenda, he just wanted to learn about film-making and that he would be happy to help out and do any odd jobs that needed doing on set as long as he got to stay and observe the director, Schaffner. He must have convinced them because they relented and let him stay. Presumably the same enthusiasm and charm that won over Peter Falk worked on Heston!
You are an absolute king/queen- thank you for reviewing, in extraordinary detail and contemplation, the episodes of this beloved show. You're brilliant!
Good point on the timing of the phone calls from the cabin and afterwards by Joanna. However, there probably wouldn’t have been any record of a call from the office to the Farris home, because it was local. Back then, they simply didn’t show up in phone records. This would become a focal point in Season 3’s Candidate for Crime, when Nelson Hayward made his alibi call from home but tried to set it up as being from a pay phone near his beach house. They couldn’t have proven it was made from Hayward’s home because it was local, but Columbo did prove it wasn’t made from the pay phone-both because the nearest one was in a closed gas station, and because there was no record of what would’ve been a toll call.
Great point and future example about phone records! I love getting comments like this one with lots of helpful insight. Thank you so much for watching and taking the time to write!
I just discovered your channel, and many kudos for great work! The one additional thing in this episode that really caught my attention was the scene at the play when Lilly drops the 'witness' bomb on Franklin, particularly with the close-ups and reaction shots of both characters during their brief encounter. You can FEEL the tension. Superb acting, directing, and editing on that sequence. Also, Jack Cassidy's look of surprise and disdain at the awaiting police officers during the final segment of the episode is worth noting I think, because in the subsequent 1974 episode 'Publish or Perish', he exhibits the same attitude, while emerging from an elevator, in that show's final segment also. Just a coincidence.. or a hunch that the 'P or P' director asked Cassidy to replicate the scene. Lastly, and speaking of Jack Cassidy, I think he ranks at or near the top of Columbo's many nemeses because of his sarcastic, volatile and provocative demeanor.
These are wonderful! So much research. The ultimate trivia. I have done this for myself for years with TV shows I really like, in a much smaller scale. We want more!! Also, I usually pay attention to dresses and furniture that are used in different episodes. (CLUE: One of these dresses, with very small alterations, is worn here by an extra during the theater scene, but is featured prominently in two other important episodes).
Nice review that’s jampacked with excellent commentary containing extra details and insights. Awesome! For some reason, I really like this particular episode of “Colombo.“ I watched some others but this one seems to be the best one in terms of writing, the characters, the filming, and the overall acting.
Thank you very much for your kind words! Murder by the Book is a lot of people's favorite episode and for good reason. I guarantee you, though, there are more great ones :) Thank you for watching!
Some Males would have been the correct Commentators. Book hadn't to be offered but had to be the one. Didn't quite like the way you thought and handled the given subject content. I ain't wrong here. From India from Italy from the whole of Europe and the U$ Mr Mrs UNPandey family Lloyd's Register Shipping London
Great to see you back doing reviews! I really enjoyed your take on this one, as well as the episode (one of my favorites). Jack Cassidy is one of my favorite Columbo villains, and he was great in this one. Barbara Colby was really good in this as well (it's very sad what happened to her a few years later ☹️). I do agree that the ending could have been better, but overall this was a top-notch episode.
I enjoy all 3 of Jack Cassidy and Robert Culp's episodes a lot. Some of my favorites. I kinda wish they were able to get them for just one more episode each.
This one's a Columbo classic, my fourth favourite episode for two main reasons; the brilliant story and for Jack Cassidy's memorable performance, although, I agree with you, that the gotcha ending wasn't the best ever. I remember when I first watched this back in the early 90's, I didn't know what a "skillet" was and I remember looking it up in the dictionary - I'm from the UK and we call them frying pans. Thanks for your great review, it made me laugh, especially your comment about Lilly being loaded.
you're like the better version of Mystery Scifi 3000 theatre. Your wit and knowledge is so entertaining. So sad to hear about the real-life murder of that actress, she always reminded me of the receptionist on the show Moonlighting.
Awesome review. Take as long as you want over the next one as the quality and deadpan humour is greatly appreciated. I can absolutely confirm that here in the UK we always put our egg shells in bowls...maybe...sometimes...ok never. The best of Cassidy is yet to come. Along with the worst of Columbo....not to be saluted.
Youre welcome. NYSH is certainly one of my faves as once again big Jack gives a wonderfully smug, sarcastic and almost comical 'Badie' performance and it has my favourite ever line when he completely patronises the stage hand with the reference to a few jars! But top of the shop for me is A Stitch in Crime. Falk + Nimoy = perfection 👍
I turned 17 two days after this episode aired. My Grammy had a huge silver plated lighter shaped like Aladdin's lamp and it weighed about 3 pounds. Grenade is an excellent representative object. Those lighters do exist and I don't want to know what they are worth in dollars. We called them "table lighters" and the pocket lighters were called Zippos, which saved the Allies in WWII along with swing music and guts. I have a Zippo from the WWII years.
Your Grammy's lamp lighter sounds incredible! I've never seen a bigger lighter than the Zippos, so that's why I want one. They're so cool. But I know you're right, they've probably got a pretty heavy price tag. That is amazing you have a Zippo from WWII.
I found your channel a few days ago and can’t stop watching. One reason I love Columbo is because I try and locate the different streets, buildings and locations around LA. I recognize a lot, but your eye and details have been above and beyond! Your videos have inspired me to create a list of places I want to take friends, that love Columbo, when they visit LA. Keep it up!! Thanks
Love your reviews and fantastic observations. One of my favourite episodes, apart from the rather weak ending! It's sad that Jack Cassidy & Barbara Colby died at quite a young age and such tragic circumstances🎬
Thank you very much for making these fabulous reviews. My own attempts (apart from one trailer) have been hit with many copyright strikes, so I certainly do admire and appreciate your perseverance. Incidentally, a gentleman at my club is curious about your Columbo soap, and asks why it is worthy of this name. I think he suspects that you may have rendered the fat from murdered victims. I told him that it more likely just has an odor associated with the character, such as cigar smoke or boiled eggs. However, he angrily insisted that this would not only be undesirable in a skin care product, but in fact would render it's use, and I quote 'A pointless and absurd contradiction'. I managed to calm him by suggesting that there's a picture of Falk and perhaps a tagline: 'Just one more thing, wash your hands' or something like that, but he still would like an answer if you don't mind. J myself would never acuse you of anything and I'm sure your hands are clean. Speaking of which, please do upload the next episode soon, well done on this one and keep up the good work, of reviewing that is.
I'm happy you enjoy the reviews! Goodness, your friend is full of assumptions! My soap is called Columbo because it's design is based on his outfit. It is also scented with Bay leaf and Tobacco. It's a very masculine fragrance.
I’ve just discovered your channel. Because I have watched every episode you have reviewed, out of curiosity I wanted to see what and how you broke down each episode. Talk about witty and informative without being boring. Very interesting.
I continue to thoroughly enjoy your takes on one of my all-time favorite shows. Columbo himself would admire your minute attention to detail. I've seen this episode at least 10 times and you pointed out a whole bunch of things I never noticed before (particularly the continuity errors!) I really appreciate that you're able to form your own independent opinions in justifiably poking a few holes in this episode, because it's overwhelmingly a fan favorite. And I love it, too-- it's HUGELY entertaining, but I think there are some unfortunate plot holes and the final "gotcha", while clever, is pretty weak as real evidence. But when you've got Peter Falk, Jack Cassidy, and Steven Spielberg on board, really, who cares. It's like entertainment crack. ;) I see from the playlist that your videos get progressively longer, which I take as a very good sign since I appreciate your insights. And you've made me laugh out loud a bunch of times. :) I'm really happy to see you're getting so much engagement in the comments. Cheers!
Thank you very much! Your comment was a joy to read! Yes, my videos get longer because I've been cutting less out. When I asked my viewers if they are too long they say they like them long and to make them longer (which is very flattering) But I have no intention of trying to make them long, whatever length they end up being is how long it takes me to say what I want to say about the episodes.
At 21:30 - there might have been no record of local calls back then, just long distance calls, which were an extra charge and were itemized on your monthly statement.
Great independence review!! Almost missed it, picture could have the word review in picture, would have watched first thing!! WONDERFUL CANT WAIT FOR ME!!
Just found your channel,and this series. Columbo was a mainstay in our house when I was a kid. (59 now). I loved it then,and I love it still. I've only watched a few (this being my 3rd..watched a couple and decided to go to the start of the series), and so far I really enjoy your reviews. Honest,humorous, and respectful, well done.
I have been rewatching your reviews they are so much fun. One thought about the eggshells some people used to grind them in coffee. I think it made the coffee less bitter.
Another thing about egg shells would be to put them in your garden. Or compost. I have a friend in California who keeps her food scraps in a bowl by her sink before adding them to compost.
Just discovered you re an X recommendation. I love Columbo on many levels. First, I read a mystery novel almost every day, then watch British mysteries at night. Second, Columbo was filmed in my world - 1970s ff Los Angeles. I love watching the scenery and places I grew up in. And really love the cars, signs and buildings. Just a note "Mrs. Melville" reminds us mystery buffs of "Mrs. Polifax". Same dull titles but fabulous mysteries, probably just before your time.
My father has composted since I was 4 and we moved to a small village (in the 70s). So, keeping the eggshells in a bowl (waiting to be put in the compost) is somewhat normal (although most people would have a dedicated container for their intermediary composting) but most people did not compost in the 70s, at least where I was.
As for lighting/not lighting a cigar at the end- I noticed that inconsistency, thanks for clearing that up........................ OK, OK I confess! The thought never entered my mind. But, glad you came up with it.
"Ken Franklin walks by Mz. Lasenka and she casually tries to get his attention. MR. FRANKLIIIIIIINNNNNNN!!!!!" If I die of laughter Columbo be knocking on your door as prime suspect! I choked on my 🍕 !!!
Brilliant review. Very entertaining. U have a tremendous eye for detail. I have watched this episode multiple times and hadn't noticed much of the small details did. Great job. Thank you.
The thing on the calls (cabin/store/house). Calling from the payphone is actually pretty clever. There would have been two calls to the wife. The call from the payphone, and 5 minutes later from the cabin. The payphone call looks like it's from Ken...from the cabin. That gives him his alibi that he was 2 hours away when Jim was killed. The second call actually from the cabin seems like it's the call from the office. The timing won't matter. Five minutes either way isn't significant, since any clock will be off one way or the other (much more common before digital clocks). A check on the phone records helps Ken. Phone records don't keep track of local person to person calls (done without the help of a human operator) just operator assistance and long distance calls. A check of Ken's phone records would show one call from the cabin...presumably his call (but really Jim's). As for the payphone, Ken payed with change, so there wouldn't be a record of anything. Plus the police would need a warrant to check the records on a payphone ...as per Katz v. United States, 389 U.S. 347 (1967) and would need probable cause. There also wouldn't have been a record of Jim's 'call' from the office. It would have been a local call, and I doubt Jim would need operator assistance to call his wife from the office (he started with asking for operator assistance at the cabin because from the cabin it was a long distance call...using operator assistance he would pay for the call, calling person to person Ken would pay for the call). There were multiple reasons why Ken chose the cabin as the scene for the murder. If I remember correctly. In 1971 I would have more or less mastered riding a tricycle, but things didn't radically change phone-wise for a while.
I am really enjoying your reviews very much, especially all the detailed information! I have been watching them since the late 70's. I never knew they switched up this episode with "Death Lends a Hand" I actually thought this episode was a little flat and enjoyed DLaH much more. It introduced characteristics and seemed more engaging. The other Jack Cassidy episodes were better also. I love them all so it's all good! Thanks again for these, looking forward to more!!
This is one of the saddest Columbo episodes in terms of the cast. Jack Cassidy burned himself to death smoking while drunk. He was just 49. On top of that, Barbara Colby was shot to death at just 36 in a random drive by shooting. Her and her date were both murdered but not robbed or anything. According to her date, who lived a little while, two guys simply drove up in a light colored van while Colby and him were getting in their vehicle and just shot them for apparently no reason. Two promising acting careers cut short. Knowing that it is hard for me to watch the episode objectively. You a typically fun, thorough job though.
Spielberg also directed the very first Rockford Files another iconic character from the 70s who has stood the test of time. Both shows use the strong characteristics of both leads.
@@elijahjames8837 I'm in the process of editing the next episode (Lady in Waiting). I'm hoping to have it done before the weekend. My mother introduced me to Columbo many years ago and I've been a fan ever since.
@@WatchitforDays When they first came on I was 10 and my favorite was McCloud because that guy rode a horse through the streets of NY. But by 19 I was only watching Columbo. The worst of Mystery Movie Fridays was MacMillan and Wife. (oh barf)
I never noticed this while watching the episode, but while watching your video I notice that Ken signs the book to "Lili", but her name in the credits is "Lilly". Did Ken not know how to spell her name? Hmmm...
I have my script written for the next episode. Now i need to read it and edit the whole video. I hope to have it done in May. Thank you for being so kind and patient!
These reviews are interesting. I hope you get through all of the episodes although that would take a while. When Jim looked up at Ken just as he was about to get shot, what if he had said "Ken, what are you", just as the gun went off. Would have made an interesting predicament. Lilly was not too smart too blackmail Ken. She became the first of many blackmailers to end up in the morgue. When you have knowledge of a felony, especially a murder, you don't blab it to the murderer. Go straight to the police.
I'm planning to go through all the Columbo episodes :) Yes! I think about that too. If Jimmy had said Ken's name, it would have been over much sooner. Good advice for witnesses.
Your reviews are very enjoyable to watch after watching the Colombo episode. You insight is beyond believable. I just started this journey today and I hope you are still doing your reviews and will post more soon. Great channel!
Nothing like thorough views that separate the legacies from the true production, direction and background cast history. You can't do what you do and how you do it without being a top Columbo patriot. My hat is off to you.
I found it interesting how Jack Cassidy was hyping up his fictional character Mrs. Melville. In the Columbo universe Melville is a very popular character and Cassidy is pitting her against Columbo, who's character's popularity in real life, I imagine, isn't popular. Keep in mind this is basically the first episode of the show. But we all know now Columbo would become the most popular fictional detectives from this era. It's like the creators (and Spielberg) had some foresight of how successful Columbo would be.
@@WatchitforDays Oh thanks again for the terrific work you do in these videos. Really great attention to details and actor/actresses' bios. Can't wait to hear what you have to say about my boy Leslie Nielsen when you do 'Lady in Waiting'.
Mrs Melville is a reference to Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, who a few years earlier had been featured in a series of films starring Margaret Rutherford.
@@cinemascoper7628 I'm unfamiliar with the character Miss Marple. Thank you for informing me of the character "Mrs. Melville" was based on. I find such parallels interesting. Have you ever seen the Columbo episode "Try and Catch Me"? I think Ruth Gordon plays a stand-in Agatha Christie.
Some lonely ladies in Columbo are looking for love in all the wrong places. Here is Ms La Sanka having a secluded romantic dinner with a murderer she is blackmailing. There was another one dating a handsome admiral whom she witnessed commit murder.
There is a possibility that Marcia Wallace filmed a scene that was eventually deleted. Because of the actors union rules, it is possible that the production company may have been obligated to retain her credit or it might’ve been too late to remove and change the credit in post production.
In that scene of those people watching the lake, there's a woman with red hair and a sort of Marcia Wallace hairstyle. It probably isn't, but I always wonder whether it could be a quick moment of her.
Also, we had typewriters in my high school, and I studied typing for three years. I was really good at it. But maybe I'll say more in a later video's comment section. If you look around UA-cam, you'll find an adaptation of "Murder By the Book" for audio. So you could download it, burn it onto an MP3 disc, and play it in your car, maybe. I would love to be an extra - even an uncredited one - in a great show like "Columbo".
used to watch these as a kid with my dear ol dad and only found out that Spielberg directed this when I bought the series on dvd six years ago for my dad who had dementia but remembered Columbo, from the opening scene it oozes film maker
That was very enjoyable. You're astoundingly observant. I watched the premiere of Murder by the Book all those years ago, and was hooked on Columbo ever after. I agree that Columbo's "pop" at the end (the scrap of paper) was pretty weak and wouldn't stand up in court. But as you said, maybe there was more written on it. And you're right about the episode's musical score; it's really haunting and was quite unusual for its time.
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Are we.... ever gonna see you?
@@bradhirsch4845 You want to see me, huh? Well, maybe some day I'll show up on this channel. But if you are ultra curious about me, I show my face in the majority of my soap making videos.
@@WatchitforDays hmm. That sounds interesting. Soap-making.
I dont know where to find that. I'll look. The first one I clicked on was definitely a different voice. lol
Are you an uncredited extra in any TV shows or movies?
@@WatchitforDays I found it. Tree Marie. The soaps look beautiful.
I havent seen you yet. Just your beautiful voice and light blue gloves.
@@bradhirsch4845 My soap channel is Nezumi Soaps ;)
As a Columbophile, I find your videos seriously informative and so crazily enjoyable. You're a gem!
I'm so happy you enjoy them!
Jack Cassidy also came to quite a sticky end in real life.
Burnt alive in a fire. He accidentally set fire to himself with a cigarette after falling asleep.
He had tried to crawl to the front door to escape but was overcome by the fire.
It's an awful tragic thing to think about
I was going to say after the advice at 10:34 ...also never fall asleep on a couch with a cigarette still lit.
If I recall correctly, Cassidy died the day The Hardy Boys/Nancy Drew Mysteries debuted.
wow!! no way!@@VonWenk
He had actually passed out. Cassidy was a blackout drunk. The cigarette started the fire, but he didn't awaken in time to escape the noxious fumes and fire. Alcoholism addiction is a terrible disease with sometimes awful consequences. @@ricardojaye305
Your reviews are so thorough and hilarious! I love how you notice the random stuff like the plant hitting the ceiling or the multiple copies of the same books. The backstory on everything including the car and Spielberg is so interesting! Thanks for another great review!
Thank you very much, Steph!
These things are mentioned on IMDB.
@@treasurehunteruk9718 Yes but she also clearly does original research and in one episode mentioned getting help from viewers. Also the jokes are clearly original.
This is my favorite UA-cam channel.I discovered Columbo about 8 years ago on Netflix,even though I grew up in the 70's.I love the way Jack Cassidy dresses in this episode.So stylish.He is a great villain.
You are so kind, thank you! Jack Cassidy is super stylish, I love it.
He is indeed!
You should see him in the other episode as a magician. I love that episode too
Sad note on Barbara Colby who herself was murdered in 1975 shot once. Jack Cassidy fell victim to a fire in 1976. Great show again.
Yes, very sad...
Barbara Colby was murdered in 1975 and Jack Cassidy was burned alive, both of them were cremated, RIP to two
Sad stories
How sad. She was cute
He got cremated twice!
Really enjoyed this. I’m a lifelong fan of Columbo and I’ve never read or seen better reviews than yours. Excellent work!
Well, that's one of the nicest comments I've gotten.... Thank you very much!
I agree. I only yesterday discovered this channel,and the reviews are honest,hilarious,and respectful to the show,even if the episode isn't a "5 cigar" worthy one.
Also a life long Columbo fan,been watching since it originally aired.
@@alexandermacdougall7873 You’re in for a treat, every review is exquisitely researched and delivered with excellent narration and humor! Enjoy!
@@robgasper8521 I think I'm all caught up now. Such fun viewing.
I'd give the channel 5 out 5 cigars!
Yeah! And no scary robots.
My Mother use to watch all the mystery shows and Columbo was one of her favorites. I became big fan in the 90s and I still watch all the episodes occasionally to this day. I really enjoyed your video very much. I know each Columbo episode well but I am fascinated by the details you point out while being very entertaining. Thank you!!
Thank you for sharing and for the wonderful encouragement! I'm so glad you're here 😊
My second episode in a week. A review show I didn't realise I needed in my life. 10/10.
My friends call me Jo, but you can call me Columbjo 😂
Haha, I'm so glad you're here ❤️
You have such a great voice, as well as a wonderful eye for detail. Your wry humour and subtle modulation really come across and draw one in! SO looking forward to more.
Awww, you're sweet as can be! Thank you very much :)
I think the thing that uniquely stands out in these very good reviews is the time you take to credit the historically uncredited extras whose presence has been a vital ingredient to so many good stories over the years. Very cool, good work on a good video. ^_^
I really appreciate that, thank you very much!
So glad to see you're back with another columbo review
Thank you very much, Mark
@@WatchitforDays Just discovering these reviews. Youre awesome! I love hearing you talk about Columbo. Do I have to subscribe to get your take on more episodes?
@@bradhirsch4845 Thank you very much, Brad! And no, you don't HAVE to do anything, but subscribing is encouraging, yes ;)
@@WatchitforDays I'm rewatching the one with Martin Landau now, Double Shock.
Have you reviewed that one or.... the one with the middle eastern royal family, A Case Of Immunity? Im gonna have to look for more of your videos.
@@bradhirsch4845 I am reviewing the episodes in the order of their air date. I am currently working on "Blueprint for Murder"
Excellent research. Well presented and entertaining as hell. PLEASE do more!
Thank you, Richiee Rich! I'm planning to have the next episode up this month.
Murder by the Book is one of the best bits of television ever! Your video explaining the Bochco/Spielberg influence is awesome!!!
I'm glad you enjoyed it!
Wonderfully entertaining and interesting review. I watched Columbo with my father when I was a kid and have seen each episode countless times since then. I thought I knew a lot about the details and backstory of each episode but you really provided multiple fun insights and observations. Just one more thing.... keep up the great work!
Thank you very much for this wonderful and encouraging comment!
Yay, these always make my day when they pop up on my UA-cam front page. Love that you always pay credit to so many unsung actors and provide history for the careers of all those extras that people usually don't pay much attention to, myself included. And your idea for the final clue was definitely better than the one in the actual episode, take that Spielberg!
Thank you, Adam :) You are soooo kind! Hope you're doing well over there in Ireland.
Also waiting for the next Schlock horror review...
My new favorite channel! I appreciate the effort you put into all the trivia. And your cute asides and jokes always bring a laugh. Keep up the great work!
You are incredibly kind, Barbara, thank you very much ❤️
I've watch d every episode of Columbo several times over since first getting hooked by reruns as a kid in the 90's; and have listened to the handful of Columbo podcasts out/consider myself a super fan- and your video essays on them are genuinely top notch, god-tier Columbo content!! Thank you so much for continuing this awesome series, and I really hope you stick with it!! Thank you so much for bringing new life to an absolutely banger of classic TV.
Wow! Your comment made my day!! Thank you very much for this wonderful kindness and encouragement 💕 I fully intend to keep working on these videos for each episode.
I love your continued use of the “look at them….vultures” line in future deep dives lol.
Love the series!❤
Thank you very much! 😁
Steven Spielberg, after being rejected by USC (the HOT film school) simply started hanging out on the (Warners? Paramount?) movie lot and he moved into an empty office, pretending that he belonged everywhere he went on the lot. He informed no one of his little scheme and folk on the lot got used to seeing the enthusiastic young director about. He was always busy and took the time to make friends with the technicians to learn their crafts. He played the part of a director and so became one. True story.
Gotta watch out for Steven Spielberg!
I thought Spielberg was hanging out on the Universal lot.
@@amjoshuaf - Imma taking break from research, probably Universal, Jaws and all.
this is how spielberg remembers the past.reality past was little different
Another fantastic review by an amazingly knowledgable researcher. Our narrator with the melodious voice speaks the language of film production, and she garners facts that most of us would be unable to ever discover...like the names of extras who have hundreds of credits but whose names are not shown on screen. How does she do that? The only way I can think of is through the unions or casting agencies, and this suggests a massive amount of work and probably some insider knowledge. Her love of Columbo is monumental, and we are indeed lucky that she is spending so much time and effort to transmit this love to us as well. Watching this video, now the third one we've seen in this analysis series, my wife said, "I like this lady." For her, that's high praise indeed!
Wow! I truly appreciate your comment full of generous praise. Thank you very much ❤️
This is so interesting. I love Colombo. I never watched it when I was a kid. I’m in my 50s now and for some reason one night I watched an episode and I’m absolutely hooked. Excellent show. I bought the box set of complete series along with the 24 TV movies recently. I’m not sure how I ever missed this great show, however I’m so happy to get to experience it and enjoy it now. Thank you for the deep dives and all the commentary.
I'm so glad you're enjoying Columbo!
@@WatchitforDays It’s awesome. And listening to you go through The episodes was some thing I did not know I needed until I found it.
Hello, I'm French and even if I have seen this episode several times, I never noticed the "J'acuse" and the mistake (with indeed 2 "c", not one) at the very beginning of the episode. I currently live in Paris but spent 3 years in the US, being able to watch the 69 episodes. Know that Columbo is still very popular in France and still broadcasted every Saturday night on prime time on TV. The French voice of Columbo (non-French series/movies in France are dubbed) made the Columbo characater very popular.
Wow, that is amazing to learn! Thank you for sharing, Jerome ❤️
I saw the French dubbed episodes in the 70s, and got so used to the mellower dubbed voice, I still get a slight irritation when hearing Peter Falkvs real voice! 😂😂😂
They are playing Columbo in New Zealand at the moment so your videos are very timely. Good work on tracking down the extra players who turn up again and again unrecognised by most people. Also appreciated is the fact that unlike a lot of other creators, your videos are not constantly interrupted by ads.
I am so happy to know you're enjoying the videos! Thank you very much :)
And I HATE ads in the middle of videos so I do not allow them in mine.
I just randomly came upon this channel and found it so interesting. It's amazing how you have painstakingly researched every actor even the uncredited ones and found movies and shows in which they have appeared. Must have taken a lot of time to prepare one video of this channel. Great work!
Thank you very much, I'm glad you found me :) Yes, it does take quite a while to make one video.
For Spielberg fans (and if you haven't seen it already) I highly recommend "Duell", which was Spielberg's next project after Murder by the Book. Great (psychological) thriller. Brilliant for a 25-year-old Spielberg.
Yes, that is a very interesting film! Thank you for sharing this additional reference :)
I just stumbled on your channel last night and it was enough to subscribe. I almost never do that. I'm absolutely hooked! Your content is right up my alley. I'm always trying to figure out where I know that side character from, who the extras are, what song is playing in the background, what ever happened to that guy, etc... you're breakdown are remarkable. Better than any glib critical review. Bravo!
Thank you very much! You are so encouraging!
I’ve own and have seen the entire series, I don’t know how many times, but I have to say that I am thoroughly enjoying every one of your posts! Very, VERY much!!!
I'm so happy you're enjoying them!
You have a very soothing voice. You could read the phone book and I would enjoy it. So it's even better that your reviews are excellent. Love the extra details.
Your comment is incredibly kind, thank you very much ❤️
I love the attention to detail in your lovely deep dive series! I've watched this Columbo episode like many others multiple times but I never noticed any of these. Can't wait to chuckle seeing the skulls on the desk, the car in the wrong parking spot, the shadow of the boom mic, the grated cheese and many more on a next watching.
I am so happy to hear you enjoy it!
Love these videos! They are so well researched. Can't wait for the next one.
Thank you, Elizabeth!
I can't say enough about how excellent and entertaining these reviews are. This was one of my favorite TV shows, and it came out when I was in high school and college. I've seen every episode many times, but watching your reviews is almost like seeing them for the first time again (if that makes sense). ❤
Great review, as always. Interesting connection between Rosemary Forsyth and Steven Spielberg. Its 1965's War Lord. Heston and the director Schaffner were having trouble with cost overruns and production difficulties with the studio breathing down their backs and bickering over some re-shoots that Schaffner and Heston wanted to do. There was a young man who kept hanging around the set and asking lots of questions of the crew. Both Schaffner and Heston suspected that this young man may have been a spy for the studio. But, of course, that young man was Spielberg presumably on his internship with Universal. He sat down and talked with Schaffner and Heston and insisted he had no hidden agenda, he just wanted to learn about film-making and that he would be happy to help out and do any odd jobs that needed doing on set as long as he got to stay and observe the director, Schaffner. He must have convinced them because they relented and let him stay. Presumably the same enthusiasm and charm that won over Peter Falk worked on Heston!
Thank you so much for sharing this! Very interesting backstory here ❤️
You are an absolute king/queen- thank you for reviewing, in extraordinary detail and contemplation, the episodes of this beloved show. You're brilliant!
You are so kind, thank you very much, my 35mm friend!
Good point on the timing of the phone calls from the cabin and afterwards by Joanna. However, there probably wouldn’t have been any record of a call from the office to the Farris home, because it was local. Back then, they simply didn’t show up in phone records. This would become a focal point in Season 3’s Candidate for Crime, when Nelson Hayward made his alibi call from home but tried to set it up as being from a pay phone near his beach house. They couldn’t have proven it was made from Hayward’s home because it was local, but Columbo did prove it wasn’t made from the pay phone-both because the nearest one was in a closed gas station, and because there was no record of what would’ve been a toll call.
Great point and future example about phone records! I love getting comments like this one with lots of helpful insight. Thank you so much for watching and taking the time to write!
I just discovered your channel, and many kudos for great work!
The one additional thing in this episode that really caught my attention was the scene at the play when Lilly drops the 'witness' bomb on Franklin,
particularly with the close-ups and reaction shots of both characters during their brief encounter. You can FEEL the tension. Superb acting, directing,
and editing on that sequence.
Also, Jack Cassidy's look of surprise and disdain at the awaiting police officers during the final segment of the episode is worth noting I think, because in the
subsequent 1974 episode 'Publish or Perish', he exhibits the same attitude, while emerging from an elevator, in that show's final segment also. Just a
coincidence.. or a hunch that the 'P or P' director asked Cassidy to replicate the scene.
Lastly, and speaking of Jack Cassidy, I think he ranks at or near the top of Columbo's many nemeses because of his sarcastic, volatile and provocative
demeanor.
I'm glad you're here! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and observations on the episode. Very fun to read.
'I like that there's a picture of Jim reading a book... It must have been a special moment to capture and frame': Well done! That made me laugh!
I'm happy to hear you got a laugh 😊
I've just finished my first book .
I might read another one tomorrow. ( tish boom ! )
Didn't get half way through your 1st episode before I subscribed. The channel is a great idea.
Aww, you are very kind!
These are wonderful! So much research. The ultimate trivia. I have done this for myself for years with TV shows I really like, in a much smaller scale. We want more!! Also, I usually pay attention to dresses and furniture that are used in different episodes. (CLUE: One of these dresses, with very small alterations, is worn here by an extra during the theater scene, but is featured prominently in two other important episodes).
I'm happy you enjoyed it! I should pay more attention to outfits, good job with your amazing observation!
You're quite the snarkster, just one of the many things that make your videos so enjoyable. Yes, the ending was weak, he confessed too quickly.
I've never been called a snarkster before, haha
Nice review that’s jampacked with excellent commentary containing extra details and insights. Awesome! For some reason, I really like this particular episode of “Colombo.“ I watched some others but this one seems to be the best one in terms of writing, the characters, the filming, and the overall acting.
Thank you very much for your kind words! Murder by the Book is a lot of people's favorite episode and for good reason. I guarantee you, though, there are more great ones :) Thank you for watching!
Some Males would have been the correct Commentators. Book hadn't to be offered but had to be the one. Didn't quite like the way you thought and handled the given subject content. I ain't wrong here. From India from Italy from the whole of Europe and the U$ Mr Mrs UNPandey family Lloyd's Register Shipping London
@@virnamisra1657Some Males???
Great to see you back doing reviews! I really enjoyed your take on this one, as well as the episode (one of my favorites). Jack Cassidy is one of my favorite Columbo villains, and he was great in this one. Barbara Colby was really good in this as well (it's very sad what happened to her a few years later ☹️). I do agree that the ending could have been better, but overall this was a top-notch episode.
I enjoy all 3 of Jack Cassidy and Robert Culp's episodes a lot. Some of my favorites. I kinda wish they were able to get them for just one more episode each.
This one's a Columbo classic, my fourth favourite episode for two main reasons; the brilliant story and for Jack Cassidy's memorable performance, although, I agree with you, that the gotcha ending wasn't the best ever. I remember when I first watched this back in the early 90's, I didn't know what a "skillet" was and I remember looking it up in the dictionary - I'm from the UK and we call them frying pans. Thanks for your great review, it made me laugh, especially your comment about Lilly being loaded.
That's interesting to know "skillet" is more commonly an American word. We also say "frying pan."
you're like the better version of Mystery Scifi 3000 theatre. Your wit and knowledge is so entertaining. So sad to hear about the real-life murder of that actress, she always reminded me of the receptionist on the show Moonlighting.
I really appreciate your kindness! Thanks for the encouragement ❤️
& why the MST3K reboot's deliberate lid references are so disappointing. (All that mental stimulation saved my life in 1995)
Brilliant review. I truly believe that this episode could have been released as a full movie with award winning potential.
Thank you for your kindness! And I agree with you, it's an amazing episode.
Awesome review. Take as long as you want over the next one as the quality and deadpan humour is greatly appreciated. I can absolutely confirm that here in the UK we always put our egg shells in bowls...maybe...sometimes...ok never.
The best of Cassidy is yet to come. Along with the worst of Columbo....not to be saluted.
Haha, your comment is amazing. Thank you for the kind words, too. I like your profile pic. Is Now You See Him your favorite Cassidy episode?
Youre welcome. NYSH is certainly one of my faves as once again big Jack gives a wonderfully smug, sarcastic and almost comical 'Badie' performance and it has my favourite ever line when he completely patronises the stage hand with the reference to a few jars!
But top of the shop for me is A Stitch in Crime. Falk + Nimoy = perfection 👍
@@robmccarthy1975 A Stitch in Crime is a masterpiece
I turned 17 two days after this episode aired. My Grammy had a huge silver plated lighter shaped like Aladdin's lamp and it weighed about 3 pounds. Grenade is an excellent representative object. Those lighters do exist and I don't want to know what they are worth in dollars. We called them "table lighters" and the pocket lighters were called Zippos, which saved the Allies in WWII along with swing music and guts. I have a Zippo from the WWII years.
Your Grammy's lamp lighter sounds incredible! I've never seen a bigger lighter than the Zippos, so that's why I want one. They're so cool. But I know you're right, they've probably got a pretty heavy price tag. That is amazing you have a Zippo from WWII.
I found your channel a few days ago and can’t stop watching.
One reason I love Columbo is because I try and locate the different streets, buildings and locations around LA. I recognize a lot, but your eye and details have been above and beyond!
Your videos have inspired me to create a list of places I want to take friends, that love Columbo, when they visit LA.
Keep it up!!
Thanks
That's wonderful to hear! Thank you very much ❤️
Love your reviews and fantastic observations. One of my favourite episodes, apart from the rather weak ending! It's sad that Jack Cassidy & Barbara Colby died at quite a young age and such tragic circumstances🎬
Thank you very much, Steve!
It is terribly sad about how they met their end...
The worst part about not lighting a cigar in the episode is that we don't get to vicariously experience grenade-sized lighter glee. Thanks again!
I know it! The grenade sized lighters are so rare... Thank you for sharing in my lighter fascination 😊
Thank you very much for making these fabulous reviews. My own attempts (apart from one trailer) have been hit with many copyright strikes, so I certainly do admire and appreciate your perseverance.
Incidentally, a gentleman at my club is curious about your Columbo soap, and asks why it is worthy of this name. I think he suspects that you may have rendered the fat from murdered victims. I told him that it more likely just has an odor associated with the character, such as cigar smoke or boiled eggs. However, he angrily insisted that this would not only be undesirable in a skin care product, but in fact would render it's use, and I quote 'A pointless and absurd contradiction'. I managed to calm him by suggesting that there's a picture of Falk and perhaps a tagline: 'Just one more thing, wash your hands' or something like that, but he still would like an answer if you don't mind.
J myself would never acuse you of anything and I'm sure your hands are clean. Speaking of which, please do upload the next episode soon, well done on this one and keep up the good work, of reviewing that is.
I'm happy you enjoy the reviews!
Goodness, your friend is full of assumptions! My soap is called Columbo because it's design is based on his outfit. It is also scented with Bay leaf and Tobacco. It's a very masculine fragrance.
I'd be afraid to use it, how do you stop it from sticking to the others?
As a life-long Columbo fan, I’m so excited to see this series. Great details and humorous insights abound. Subbed and binging these!
I'm so glad you're here!
You did such a great job with all the details and so much good extra info!
Aww, thank you, Glenda!! 💕
Your videos deserve many more views. I watch them from start to finish and find them extremely entertaining.
Thank you, Mark! You are the best :)
Amazing research! I love all the background information on all the minor characters... keep em coming!
Thank you very much, Richard!
I’ve just discovered your channel. Because I have watched every episode you have reviewed, out of curiosity I wanted to see what and how you broke down each episode. Talk about witty and informative without being boring. Very interesting.
I am so happy to hear you enjoy the videos!
I continue to thoroughly enjoy your takes on one of my all-time favorite shows. Columbo himself would admire your minute attention to detail. I've seen this episode at least 10 times and you pointed out a whole bunch of things I never noticed before (particularly the continuity errors!) I really appreciate that you're able to form your own independent opinions in justifiably poking a few holes in this episode, because it's overwhelmingly a fan favorite. And I love it, too-- it's HUGELY entertaining, but I think there are some unfortunate plot holes and the final "gotcha", while clever, is pretty weak as real evidence. But when you've got Peter Falk, Jack Cassidy, and Steven Spielberg on board, really, who cares. It's like entertainment crack. ;)
I see from the playlist that your videos get progressively longer, which I take as a very good sign since I appreciate your insights. And you've made me laugh out loud a bunch of times. :) I'm really happy to see you're getting so much engagement in the comments. Cheers!
Thank you very much! Your comment was a joy to read! Yes, my videos get longer because I've been cutting less out. When I asked my viewers if they are too long they say they like them long and to make them longer (which is very flattering) But I have no intention of trying to make them long, whatever length they end up being is how long it takes me to say what I want to say about the episodes.
At 21:30 - there might have been no record of local calls back then, just long distance calls, which were an extra charge and were itemized on your monthly statement.
Your Entertainment by the Columbo Review is even better than the episode Murder by the Book, itself.
You are incredibly kind, thank you :)
My husband suggested your channel, I am so glad he did.
Aww, then I'm glad you're here!
Great independence review!! Almost missed it, picture could have the word review in picture, would have watched first thing!! WONDERFUL CANT WAIT FOR ME!!
I'm so happy you enjoyed it!!
Wow, what an amazing and detailed review. You are very observant just like Columbo.
You my dear also get five out five cigars. Thank you so much.
I'm so happy you enjoyed it!
You are really onto something. Merci beaucoup.
Thank you!
Nice to see you back with another Columbo episode review. Thorough & very explanatory. Hope to see more upcoming episode reviews from you.
Thank you for that encouragement, Kevin. You're the best!
Thank you for your efforts. Greatings from Poland Great to see your work again. Gongratulation.
Thank you, my friend from Poland.
Just found your channel,and this series.
Columbo was a mainstay in our house when I was a kid. (59 now). I loved it then,and I love it still.
I've only watched a few (this being my 3rd..watched a couple and decided to go to the start of the series), and so far I really enjoy your reviews. Honest,humorous, and respectful, well done.
I truly appreciate your comment, thank you!
I have been rewatching your reviews they are so much fun.
One thought about the eggshells some people used to grind them in coffee. I think it made the coffee less bitter.
That makes me smile to know you enjoy the videos so much 😊
Well, that is very interesting. I've never heard of that before, thank you for sharing!
Another thing about egg shells would be to put them in your garden. Or compost. I have a friend in California who keeps her food scraps in a bowl by her sink before adding them to compost.
Just discovered you re an X recommendation. I love Columbo on many levels. First, I read a mystery novel almost every day, then watch British mysteries at night. Second, Columbo was filmed in my world - 1970s ff Los Angeles. I love watching the scenery and places I grew up in. And really love the cars, signs and buildings.
Just a note "Mrs. Melville" reminds us mystery buffs of "Mrs. Polifax". Same dull titles but fabulous mysteries, probably just before your time.
I'm so glad you're here! I'll bet you can share lots of wonderful insight
You did a great job on information of this video !! 🎯🎯🎯🎯💚💚
You are very kind! Thank you for this encouragement ❤️
I love the trivia in these videos! I also love your opinions and commentary. The editing is also funny. Keep up to good work.
Aww, thank you very much! What an encouraging comment 😊
This video is really enjoyable, thank you for posting it and now I will look for more of your work.
@@LordXbow Thank you very much!
My father has composted since I was 4 and we moved to a small village (in the 70s). So, keeping the eggshells in a bowl (waiting to be put in the compost) is somewhat normal (although most people would have a dedicated container for their intermediary composting) but most people did not compost in the 70s, at least where I was.
Thank you for sharing. I did not consider that thought because I didn't know composting was done back then. Thank you :)
Made me a subscriber this is one of my all-time favorite Columbo. Thank you for all the hard work and comments. I can't wait to watch the next one.
You are so kind! I'm glad you're here
Well, the first six minutes of this one was enough to make me subscribe! - Great stuff.
Aww, thank you very much!
As for lighting/not lighting a cigar at the end- I noticed that inconsistency, thanks for clearing that up........................ OK, OK I confess! The thought never entered my mind. But, glad you came up with it.
Haha, you are funny 😊
"Ken Franklin walks by Mz. Lasenka and she casually tries to get his attention. MR. FRANKLIIIIIIINNNNNNN!!!!!" If I die of laughter Columbo be knocking on your door as prime suspect! I choked on my 🍕 !!!
Oh no! 😆
I'm so happy to know you got a laugh out of that!
Brilliant review. Very entertaining. U have a tremendous eye for detail. I have watched this episode multiple times and hadn't noticed much of the small details did. Great job. Thank you.
I'm so happy you enjoyed it!
Can you please make the analysis of the first Shatner episode at least an hour long? These are fantastic.
You're so sweet. I'll try to take my time on the Shatner episode when I get there.
Great video and superb narration. I love the light sarcastic commentary.
The thing on the calls (cabin/store/house). Calling from the payphone is actually pretty clever. There would have been two calls to the wife. The call from the payphone, and 5 minutes later from the cabin. The payphone call looks like it's from Ken...from the cabin. That gives him his alibi that he was 2 hours away when Jim was killed. The second call actually from the cabin seems like it's the call from the office. The timing won't matter. Five minutes either way isn't significant, since any clock will be off one way or the other (much more common before digital clocks).
A check on the phone records helps Ken. Phone records don't keep track of local person to person calls (done without the help of a human operator) just operator assistance and long distance calls. A check of Ken's phone records would show one call from the cabin...presumably his call (but really Jim's). As for the payphone, Ken payed with change, so there wouldn't be a record of anything. Plus the police would need a warrant to check the records on a payphone ...as per Katz v. United States, 389 U.S. 347 (1967) and would need probable cause. There also wouldn't have been a record of Jim's 'call' from the office. It would have been a local call, and I doubt Jim would need operator assistance to call his wife from the office (he started with asking for operator assistance at the cabin because from the cabin it was a long distance call...using operator assistance he would pay for the call, calling person to person Ken would pay for the call). There were multiple reasons why Ken chose the cabin as the scene for the murder.
If I remember correctly. In 1971 I would have more or less mastered riding a tricycle, but things didn't radically change phone-wise for a while.
What an incredibly helpful, detailed, and insightful comment! Thank you for taking the time to type all of this information, I really appreciate it ❤️
I am really enjoying your reviews very much, especially all the detailed information! I have been watching them since the late 70's. I never knew they switched up this episode with "Death Lends a Hand" I actually thought this episode was a little flat and enjoyed DLaH much more. It introduced characteristics and seemed more engaging. The other Jack Cassidy episodes were better also. I love them all so it's all good! Thanks again for these, looking forward to more!!
I'm so happy you are enjoying the videos! And thank you for sharing your thoughts on the episodes as well :)
This is one of the saddest Columbo episodes in terms of the cast. Jack Cassidy burned himself to death smoking while drunk. He was just 49. On top of that, Barbara Colby was shot to death at just 36 in a random drive by shooting. Her and her date were both murdered but not robbed or anything. According to her date, who lived a little while, two guys simply drove up in a light colored van while Colby and him were getting in their vehicle and just shot them for apparently no reason. Two promising acting careers cut short. Knowing that it is hard for me to watch the episode objectively. You a typically fun, thorough job though.
I agree, heavy tragedies
Great job on this first episode! Love it! Pleeeze keep them coming!
Thank you very much! I am working on the next episode right now :)
Spielberg also directed the very first Rockford Files another iconic character from the 70s who has stood the test of time. Both shows use the strong characteristics of both leads.
That is awesome information, thank you for sharing
@@WatchitforDays great breakdowns of these movies hope you do more. How did you become a fan of Columbo given your age?
@@elijahjames8837 I'm in the process of editing the next episode (Lady in Waiting). I'm hoping to have it done before the weekend. My mother introduced me to Columbo many years ago and I've been a fan ever since.
@@WatchitforDays When they first came on I was 10 and my favorite was McCloud because that guy rode a horse through the streets of NY. But by 19 I was only watching Columbo.
The worst of Mystery Movie Fridays was MacMillan and Wife. (oh barf)
@@elijahjames8837 I liked McLoud too, but Columbo more. I didn’t care for McMillian either.
Thanks much for the interesting, well researched and humorous review! You spotted SO many little details I missed 😊
I'm SO happy you enjoyed it!
I never noticed this while watching the episode, but while watching your video I notice that Ken signs the book to "Lili", but her name in the credits is "Lilly". Did Ken not know how to spell her name? Hmmm...
I also noticed that. He likely did not know how to spell her name and never asked, or something.
Well…I’ve caught up on all your episodes, so now must wait for future offerings. Looking forward to what the future holds.
I have my script written for the next episode. Now i need to read it and edit the whole video. I hope to have it done in May. Thank you for being so kind and patient!
These reviews are interesting. I hope you get through all of the episodes although that would take a while.
When Jim looked up at Ken just as he was about to get shot, what if he had said "Ken, what are you", just as the gun went off. Would have made an interesting predicament.
Lilly was not too smart too blackmail Ken. She became the first of many blackmailers to end up in the morgue. When you have knowledge of a felony, especially a murder, you don't blab it to the murderer. Go straight to the police.
I'm planning to go through all the Columbo episodes :)
Yes! I think about that too. If Jimmy had said Ken's name, it would have been over much sooner.
Good advice for witnesses.
Your reviews are very enjoyable to watch after watching the Colombo episode. You insight is beyond believable. I just started this journey today and I hope you are still doing your reviews and will post more soon. Great channel!
I sure appreciate that! I plan to complete every episode.
That is GREAT!!!!
Love Columbo, love what you do here it’s awesome! Such a cute voice too 😁
You are sweet, thank you very much :)
@@WatchitforDays ❤️
Nothing like thorough views that separate the legacies from the true production, direction and background cast history. You can't do what you do and how you do it without being a top Columbo patriot. My hat is off to you.
You are very kind, thank you!
I found it interesting how Jack Cassidy was hyping up his fictional character Mrs. Melville.
In the Columbo universe Melville is a very popular character and Cassidy is pitting her against Columbo, who's character's popularity in real life, I imagine, isn't popular. Keep in mind this is basically the first episode of the show. But we all know now Columbo would become the most popular fictional detectives from this era.
It's like the creators (and Spielberg) had some foresight of how successful Columbo would be.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, very interesting!
@@WatchitforDays Oh thanks again for the terrific work you do in these videos. Really great attention to details and actor/actresses' bios.
Can't wait to hear what you have to say about my boy Leslie Nielsen when you do 'Lady in Waiting'.
I appreciate that encouragement. 😊 Looking forward to Lady in Waiting.
Mrs Melville is a reference to Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, who a few years earlier had been featured in a series of films starring Margaret Rutherford.
@@cinemascoper7628 I'm unfamiliar with the character Miss Marple.
Thank you for informing me of the character "Mrs. Melville" was based on. I find such parallels interesting.
Have you ever seen the Columbo episode "Try and Catch Me"? I think Ruth Gordon plays a stand-in Agatha Christie.
You do such an amazing job with these videos. I love all the extra information about the behind the scenes stuff!
Thank you very much, David! I really appreciate your encouragement :)
Some lonely ladies in Columbo are looking for love in all the wrong places. Here is Ms La Sanka having a secluded romantic dinner with a murderer she is blackmailing. There was another one dating a handsome admiral whom she witnessed commit murder.
Yep, you're right. They aren't thinking straight.
Wonderful review! Absolutely *love* Columbo and have just stumbled across this video! Cannot wait to watch the rest 🎉🧡
I'm so happy you found me!
There is a possibility that Marcia Wallace filmed a scene that was eventually deleted.
Because of the actors union rules, it is possible that the production company may have been obligated to retain her credit or it might’ve been too late to remove and change the credit in post production.
Yes, you could possibly be right about that. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!
In that scene of those people watching the lake, there's a woman with red hair and a sort of Marcia Wallace hairstyle. It probably isn't, but I always wonder whether it could be a quick moment of her.
I for one am so glad that cars today aren't as huge as they were back in the 70's.
I can understand that. They were very very big!
Also, we had typewriters in my high school, and I studied typing for three years. I was really good at it. But maybe I'll say more in a later video's comment section.
If you look around UA-cam, you'll find an adaptation of "Murder By the Book" for audio. So you could download it, burn it onto an MP3 disc, and play it in your car, maybe.
I would love to be an extra - even an uncredited one - in a great show like "Columbo".
used to watch these as a kid with my dear ol dad and only found out that Spielberg directed this when I bought the series on dvd six years ago for my dad who had dementia but remembered Columbo, from the opening scene it oozes film maker
Thank you for sharing this memory of your dad with me. I always appreciate comments like this. This is definitely a super cinematic episode!
That was very enjoyable. You're astoundingly observant. I watched the premiere of Murder by the Book all those years ago, and was hooked on Columbo ever after. I agree that Columbo's "pop" at the end (the scrap of paper) was pretty weak and wouldn't stand up in court. But as you said, maybe there was more written on it. And you're right about the episode's musical score; it's really haunting and was quite unusual for its time.
Thank you for this great comment!