MURDER BY THE BOOK is another early instalment of the Columbo series, featuring regular guest star Jack Cassidy in his first appearance on the show. It's a well-directed little mystery with tight writing and a decent premise, and is chiefly of note today for its direction by none other than Steven Spielberg, back when he was still making TV movies and episodes before hitting the big time.
Cassidy is always a fun, belligerent presence in this show and the scenes of him interacting with an ever-persistent Columbo are undoubtedly the highlights. However, the short running time and the extra incident of the plot keeps this one moving quickly along and there are some well-judged performances from the supporting cast members, in particular Barbara Colby as the delightful store owner. MURDER BY THE BOOK doesn't contain quite as much comedy or personal stuff from Falk as I like but otherwise it's a hit.
Cassidy is always a fun, belligerent presence in this show and the scenes of him interacting with an ever-persistent Columbo are undoubtedly the highlights. However, the short running time and the extra incident of the plot keeps this one moving quickly along and there are some well-judged performances from the supporting cast members, in particular Barbara Colby as the delightful store owner. MURDER BY THE BOOK doesn't contain quite as much comedy or personal stuff from Falk as I like but otherwise it's a hit.