Have always been quite fond of 'Murder She Wrote'. It is a fun and relaxing watch that makes you think as you try to unwind in the evening. If one wants more complex, twisty mysteries with lots of tension and suspense 'Murder She Wrote' may not be for you, but if you want something light-hearted and entertaining but still provide good mysteries 'Murder She Wrote' fits the bill just fine.
Much of Season 1 ranges between decent to great, but, while not a terrible episode (saying this knowing fellow 'Murder She Wrote' fans who think it is) it's to me one of the weaker episodes of the season. Intriguing premise that could have been executed better.
There is a good deal to like. It is very slickly filmed with typically attractive locations and fashions. The music has presence but also not making the mistake of over-scoring, while it is hard to forget or resist the theme tune. The jazz music is nostalgic, slinky and raises the spirits.
Some of the writing is amiable and thought-provoking, and there are some moving moments in the story.
Angela Lansbury is terrific in one of her best remembered roles (one of the roles that is most closely associated with me at any rate), and Clive Revill, Glynn Turman and particularly Olivia Cole give good support.
However, the story didn't completely grab me. Some of it seemed a little dull and, despite the means of murder being clever, parts could have had more clarity. The exposition and back-story elements weren't as interesting as they could have been, still felt the episode could have gone into more detail.
While some of the script is true in spirit to the usual writing of 'Murder She Wrote' (or at least in the earlier seasons), parts are a bit dreary and blah.
Overall, above average episode but didn't completely grab me, there are better music-themed episodes. 6.5/10 Bethany Cox