Columbo: Requiem for a Falling Star

REQUIEM FOR A FALLING STAR is one of the more efficient Columbo episodes I've seen. The short running time means that the plot is very fast paced and the viewer has barely been introduced to the main cast members before the murder plot is set in action. Overall this is a professional-looking production with slick photography and a fine little script that gets to the heart of the characters involved while offering up more than a few surprises as the running time progresses.

The notable thing about REQUIEM FOR A FALLING STAR is the exemplary cast of former Hollywood stars, all of whom acquit themselves in the professional way you'd imagine. Anne Baxter is the guest villain and brings a level of authenticity to the proceedings as well as a slight sadness which Peter Falk trades on very well. This is one of those episodes where he's slightly in awe of the murderer so their scenes are quite sweet and special. Further support comes from an acidic Mel Ferrer and a brash Kevin McCarthy, while real-life fashion designer Edith Head has a cameo playing herself. It's good stuff and a classic episode for the show.