It's pretty evident with this particular "Columbo" episode that there was a serious intent to change the formula around to bring in some freshness. For one thing, if I recall correctly, Columbo doesn't talk about his wife at any time here (though this may have been edited out of the episode for syndication purposes.) And the murder plot unfolds in a decidedly different fashion than usual, and on that note I will refrain from saying any more about the plot, only to say that towards the end there is a big twist that will probably surprise most viewers, even those who are serious "Columbo" fans. Though I do like the formula that was set by the original episodes, I did find somewhat different unfolding story to be a pleasant change of pace. And Peter Falk, as usual, is solid as our favorite detective. One of the better newer episodes, in my opinion.
Review of Columbo Cries Wolf
