Columbo is best viewed when he's in the 1970's (or 60's), simply because today's technology for crime fighting (DNA evidence, the internet, wide spread cell phones), was not around yet. This episode is on the cusp of that time era, it's film standards and styles look really close to a present day TV show, in this one there are cordless phones, video cameras everywhere, and beepers (I bet 20 somethings have no idea what those are! LOL), so we are almost there in today's modern era. So when you watch this it's sooo close that you start to think it is now and you see how easy things are to solve if Columbo has the modern techniques available. (mainly DNA testing) That off of my chest, I did enjoy this episode and loved the way it unfolded. Lets face it, I'm sure I'm not the only one who grew up on Perry Mason and Columbo re-runs, to want a TV episode that is dark, where the killer gets away! This episode is good for that and in the end yes Columbo gets his killer but you know that ending was rushed and people like me can make believe that was a dream Columbo was having and the Playboy got away with one (ala OJ Simpson). I find the show frustrating to watch mainly because I grew up watching this show so I've gotten nit picky, I guess that's a testament to how great this show is as a series! Columbos attention to details (lets face it most are very convieient like they are in most murder mysteries), has driven me to a point where I nit pick the show because now I am paying to much attention! Without saying anymore negatives (why is Columbo in a missing persons case? on and on and on, search warrants, lawyers, etc etc), in the end it's cool to watch the ultra rich life styles, not many shows give you that now, it's nice escapist fare. 8 of 10.
Review of Columbo Cries Wolf
