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I was just doing some calculations. If the rate of release of these excellent, videos is going to be every two months. We will be enjoying it for the next 10 years. Now that is truly something to be looking forward to.
Me, too!; &, I'm so glad more others agree now; too! Agreed;...these really are great; and; it seems like that's true about every one that you make; Shonna-!
Agreed! I want to do whatever I can to spread the word about this wonderful channel on the various Columbo-fans channels and comments I come across out in the virtual world :).
Hi Shonna, The reason it's called a glove compartment is that old steering wheels were not padded like modern ones and therefore were uncomfortable to drive in the winter hence people *needed* gloves. The big lighters that you like so much (I do as well) are desk lighters. Now we can't use them indoors, they are gone in favor of pocket lighters along with the ashtray which was common on desks and in restaurants.
This is an amazing comment! What wonderful insight on the glove compartment. Thank you :) I didn't know my favorite lighters were called desk lighters. More great insight, thank you 🔥 I remember ash trays being on every table in restaurants and every table at family member's houses. Everyone was smoking
Add the unique "White Castle" restaurant chain's "ashtray" coffee cups that had two indents in the bottom of the cup so it could be turned over and used as an ashtray and you get an idea of how big a part cigarette smoking played in American culture in the middle of the 20th Century.
one of the great things about Roddy's performance is that he feels fairly unique amongst Columbo's opponents. Really surprised he was never bigger or more well remembered. To me he was playing both a genius and a fool. He was so sure in his own intelligence that if he couldn't think of it, than no one else could. I was surprised to hear that people don't like this episode. I won't call it a favorite, but I thought it was solidly done. REALLY surprised it was done in 10 days. There is something a little funny about the studio going "FALK HAS NEVER DIRECTED BEFORE WE NEED A BACKUP EPISODE! but who can we get to direct it?!? how about this editor who has never directed an episode? YeAH. That makes sense!! (i'm sure editing lends itself to directing more). Thanks for all the interesting facts. There is always so much more to learn about each episode. Harley Davidson golfcart... I would never have known and I'm glad i do now!! Your content is the best on the website!!
I had the same thought about Falk never directing before and Abroms never directing before. Thank you for taking the time to write this nice long comment, I enjoyed reading it very much!
I love the end in the episode I have never seen all episodes but I have seen this one a few times, after much time I have to acknowledge the genus of Roddy McDowall, he also was in Cleopatra and The Longest Day, definitely a great actor, I have become a fan after many decade's.
@@halfrutter2226 He was wonderful as a medium in 'The Legend of Hell House'. McDowall could hit several punches up from his fey public Hollywood persona when given a good serious dramatic role, and hit very hard.
I do think that the key to McDowall's performance is that he was a 44 year old being asked to play a much much younger character, hence the slightly over the top youthful post-hippie exuberance (which is indeed a lot of fun to watch). Great channel!
My mom was working for 20th Century Fox in the late sixties and she brought home 3 extra's masks from the original Planet of the Apes. Real fake hair, a beautiful "paint" and a velcro flap in the back. The masks were terrifyingly realistic, especially if you matched eye shadow to the ape-skin color (like Batman's black eyes). I was 14 and my bud Steve and I ran through Westwood (very upscale) Village with our masks on, acting like running apes and we literally terrified the populace for an hour and I got a whole bag of leftover french fries when we ran through Woody's, the hip hangout for U.C.L.A. students and other young folk. We didn't get arrested, we were that good. The french fries were amazing.
So what happened to the masks? I know of people who would love to get their hands on something like that. Not trying to buy them. I just know they'd be big collectibles.
@@grannyweatherwax8005 - the masks were made of a specific kind of rubber and fake hair and over the decades the rubber just disintegrates and crumbles away. Literally it rots, like the belts in my half-dozen cassette recorders. The year was 1968.
I almost enjoy your breakdowns more than the episodes themselves. You bring so much insight to the whole thing. Great job. I also couldn’t pick a favourite episode either. William Windom for me will always be Doc Haslett on Murder She Wote, another favourite series of mine.
@@WatchitforDays you must put such a great amount of time into each episode, you deserve praise. Thank you for all your hard work…and your humour/sarcastic wit
I was obsessed with this episode when I was a kid, absolutely loved it, constantly played with an old camera after I saw it. Today I may be a little sentimental, but I think Roddy McDowell's performance is an absolute gem! It aged really well, it's dynamic, interesting... And the editing at the end is superb. PS Thank you for the video, BTW, I really enjoy your content, and subscribed right away.
You again! We missed you but meticulous research like yours is much more time consuming than slapping something together. My most rewarding laugh out loud moment was when you inserted the glove box routine from the adventures of Frank Drebbin. Who would believe that he had once been engaged to a scheming, narcissistic murderer who dressed like a dork? Your work is unique. It's something I could watch for days. All the best from Colombia.
I agree with your opinion about Short Fuse. Never understood why it rates so low for some people. Roddy is very entertaining in this! And it's a good watch! Thanks for another great episode!
I've always loved this episode. anytime Roddy McDowell was on screen in any movie he made, he captured the screen. He did in Overboard with his memorable role as the Butler, as well as The Poseidon Adventure.. and who could forget Cornelius from the planet of the apes. And by the way thanks for the Colombo chronology. I actually did not know that. Enjoy the coffees
Thanks for uploading another great Columbo episode review. Didn't know Harley Davidson made golf carts as well as motorcycles. I know which future Columbo episode you mentioned Anne Francis will be appearing in, but I'll just say that I won't give it away to your viewers until you review it.
I didn't know Harley Davidson made golf carts either until I started researching for this episode. I really enjoy the next episode Anne Francis is in. Another one of my favorites.
It's funny that you uploaded this today as I JUST watched this episode yesterday morning and was hoping that you would review it! Great job as always! 😊❤️
I've made it a habit of watching these analyses just as soon as I finish watching an episode for the first time. It makes the journey that much more incredible.
Very interesting to hear you say that Universal ordered this episode cause they were worried Falk’s directed episode wouldnt be airable. Ive only ever heard it said by Schlock Horror and Columbophile that they got greedy and wanted an extra episode to make more money. That insight you provided sheds more light on the situation! Also, I believe that “my wife says im second best” line is supposed to be a joke/dig at himself by Columbo. being second best would be pretty impressive.. but if theres 80 guys tied for first hes actually middle of the road at best.
yeah I feel there is an ongoing jokes that, though they love each other, Mrs columbo is kinda sassy, and it's not uncommon for older couples to talk about their spouses and their marriage in a negative joking way, even if they love them. I kinda Like Mrs Columbo. I think it was just to the right of good. Kate Mulgrew doesn't fit my image created by columbo, but maybe he didn't want any killers going after his wife and family (never mentions a kid). Even though one does. but yeah the shows really don't mesh well. honestly the Mrs Columbo where they go after the mentally disturbed ventriloqust is... well...disturbing. stayed with me. Even if it's not really accurate to how ventriloquism or most mental illness is.
I like what you did there at the end: Watch it for Days. XD This episode is a little confusing, but yea, I love it too. Roger is a very individual villain, in a fun way. Also, also: the way you address the um...dickering...was very tactful. Perhaps you should be a mediator; so smooth. ^^ Thanks for putting another one of these together. Happy you got another interesting lighter too, hee.
:) Thank you, Dana! I like that, "individual villain." I'm glad you liked the dickering moment, haha Thank you for your kindness, I'm so happy you enjoyed the video!
Roddy McDowall is one of 2 actors to play villains arrested by both Columbo and Batman. The other was Anne Baxter. Roddy played the Bookworm on Batman. He was very effective at playing villains who were nerdy and yet menacing. This was actually the third double murder in the series, after Murder by the Book and Suitable for Framing. And I believe it was the only time when two characters were murdered simultaneously. I tried to ride on the tram last winter, but I didn’t make a reservation and the wait would’ve been too long.
Thank you for sharing all that wonderful extra Roddy info :) Yes, I made a mistake in my script and didn't catch it until it was too late, unfortunately. I would like to ride the sky tram some day
What a coup to get Silly String before it was released to the public. The plot did confuse me several times especially when Roger was hanging out at Quincy's apartment. I think the chemical plant and tram locations were extremely well done for TV at that time. I wondered why DL had a picture of himself on his desk too. Kinda narcissistic or maybe he just really liked the picture, hmmm. The cut from the office to the tower made me wonder if we were supposed to believe Roger's office was up there! The white outfit Doris wears early in the episode is real elegant. I've never know anyone to wear their Honor's Society medal in general public but it does work well for the ending. Love the thoroughness and humor of your review and how you defy expectations here and there in your editing.
I had originally thought it was a picture of his brother (or brother in law depending). but it does seem to be of himself. so.... some mysteries aren't meant to be solved.
About the photo on the desk. I wonder if the scene with Roddy at the desk where he puts the photo face down (and Columbo comes and says, “this must have fallen over “ was filmed first. And then the photo was mistakenly left behind when they filmed the scenes with Uncle David still alive.
You, young lady, absolutely crack me up. Your sparkling writing, along with a playful delivery, thoroughly compliment the depth and breadth you bring to each review. Another splendid job. Thank you! Btw... you should consider learning more about Ida Lupino. She was gnarly AF.
I was surprised when you mentioned that there are people who dislike this episode. Every Columbo episode has issues, but to me it's whether I've enjoyed watching it. This episode has one of the most memorable endings of any of them and has stayed with me for decades (especially that laugh at the end). And as you say, it's beautifully filmed.
Until I saw your channel, I have never liked "recap" videos. But your amazing knowledge, great research, tremendous attention to detail, and sly sense of humor make your channel this one of the best on RUclips. As a longtime Columbo fan, I now want to go back and rewatch them all with all the things I've learned.
Funny you said that - when Fright Night was about to come out - we got passes to a VIP room at the (notorious) Limelight in NYC. It was a party to promote the movie . We had hopes to meet Roddy - and - rehearsed WHAT we would ask him or talk about. We got to this VIP room and ..no Roddy anywhere in sight. We stayed for a few hours - just a bunch of people hanging out - NOBODY there looked like they were in the movie business. I don't remember much more about that night ....
Loving your reviews! I've been watching Columbo for YEARS and have seen them all multiple times, yet you are pointing out things I've never noticed... And now I can't unsee them. Thanks again.. Always look forward to the next one..and can't wait until you review my favourite episode ...
I'm new to Columbo, but immediately fell in love with Peter Falk's work. Just brilliant. Your channel is wonderful and you do a great job recapping and analyzing the episodes. I hope you keep on doing it. Thank you very much, from Brazil.
Great stuff.. so funny thankyou for making such an effort to generously and humorously review! Your commentary often reflects my own obscure observations in these fantastic 70’s episodes, I could watch them for the kitch interior decor alone! Brilliantly researched thank you again. I live in Italy and watch through a few from a boxed set come wintertime but your overlays add a huge smile..
I don't think I would rate this as one of my favorite episodes but I do find it enjoyable. Roddy McDowell is an actor I remember seeing when I was younger and although he was a little over the top it wasn't as bad as the acting in some of the future Columbo episodes. Regarding his, um wardrobe malfunction, I just assumed the cigars moved from the back of his pants to the front... Maybe not. The only acting I had some trouble with in this episode was Ann Francis, primarily due to her much better acting in "A Stitch in Crime". Good summary, well worth the wait!
I actually really like this episode because Roddy McDowall's character Roger Stanford is not easily spooked by Columbo unlike alot of the murder suspects he investigates. Roger plays it cool with Columbo, which means Columbo had to think and work hard to get him to crack, which is what makes the ending so satisfying when Columbo finally gets Roger on the ropes.
Yep, at the end Roger was check mated at the Grand Master level. At one point in the tram he says to Columbo "Can you please just be quiet?" We the viewers might add "and let me blow up in peace?"
@@stevew1487 Oh and I would add that Columbo is pulling this bluff on Roger while in the aerial tram car, and it has been established that Columbo is uneasy about heights. Columbo is willing to deal with his own discomfort in order to get to the truth. Now that is dedication.
@@kendraressler4497 Even with the tram doors WIDE OPEN! I'd say he was so focused on trapping the mind of his killer, that for those few moments he literally wasn't even aware of his own fear.
This episode of columbo is the fantastic middle relief pitcher that doesn’t get the win or the save but bridged them over to the etude in black. Great job! Such a great review episode.
I think _80 guys tied for first place_ wouldn’t even qualify that statement as a backhanded compliment - it’s a flat out insult. For the past 15 years I’ve been helping people get their films into festivals while volunteering for a local film school. I know how much work it takes to make one of these Columbo reviews so really I appreciate you very much! These are really entertaining!
Just found your channel , love it . Always good to find someone who is a bigger columbophile than me . Your research is excellent and gives me a great insight into each episode and each series , thank you 🙏
I just started watching your reviews maybe a week or so ago and I have to say that they are amazing. I can't wait until you get to Candidate for A Crime it's one of my favorite Columbo episode! Keep up the good work 😊
Highly enjoyed this, love your voice and the way you phrase things. Have seen all the Columbo episodes many times but never knew the back stories on them. I really appreciate you doing this and keep up the excellent work. A huge Columbo (Peter Falk) fan
I never watched a full Columbo episode. Not in our NW 🇨🇦Canadian 2-channel offerings 'til 1974, then I was busy at University. Your terrific reviews pique my interest! Thank you.
Glad you gave this episode the 5 out of 5 as i really like this episode and now knowing they had 10 days to shoot it, that makes it a great achievement to me and they pulled it off. the editing and direction as well as the cinematography and acting is brilliant for a 10 day shoot. By the way you would of loved my Grandmothers lighter, it was like a marble stone that you could light a cigarette with, it was huge and very much something of this time. Loving watching these at night here in the cold city of Aberdeen in Scotland.
You are a rare find! Almost everyone disagrees with my high rating of this episode (which I expected). You're right about that, I am still searching for a big lighter to have of my own but I cannot find one. Thank you for sharing you are in Aberdeen Scotland! I love hearing where folk are from. And thank you for your kind words, I'm so happy you're enjoying the videos!
Love it! I love your sense of humor! And I am amazed by your attention to the smallest details. You clearly put in a lot of work to make these videos. A couple of things: you’re spot on about the Borgias. They were some interesting characters. And as regards “dressing to the left”? One thing which can be concluded from that is that Roddy McDowell was right handed. Not a great revelation as no doubt this can also be deduced from multiple scenes where he uses his hands, but it’s an interesting bit of human biological trivia.
Thank you, Tim! I looked up the pronunciation of San Jacinto and I kept finding people saying the J was pronounced. Something to do with the Americans mispronouncing it since forever ago and because it is a formal name, they kept it that way. But what I read could of course be wrong since I am clearly not from that part of the country. When it comes to pronouncing names that I've never heard before and I try to find sources to help me, it never seems to work out, lol.
WOW !!! Just today at tea break at work I was talking about this Columbo episode and Roddy's amazing Roddy . So glad you didn't gloss over it ( that would take a lot of glossin' ) . Brilliant Channel that I've now subscribed to .
I love this episode! Those early episodes had a great vibe to them and that is why they stand the test of time!! You do a truly amazing job making this videos!!
I liked your timeline at the beginning which really clarified Falk's "strike." I am going to have to re-watch this episode because of your review. Don't remember it as a strong episode. I going to think of the McDowell character as an immature man boy, perhaps an only child. With his father running a chemical company he became brilliant at chemistry eventually graduating from university. When his father died young they put the Uncle in charge. However, when the Uncle sees McDowell not maturing he realizes that there is no future for the company as a family firm. The silly string fits into that as it is something a immature but brilliant chemist would invent!
I just caught this, and it's my first time on your channel. "Short Fuse" is one of my very top favorite Columbo episodes, and frankly it's all due to Roddy McDowall's wonderful performance. You simply cannot go wrong with Roddy. I now will look up my other faves on your channel. 🙂
Thank you! It is so interesting to listen to you! 🤗 The German name of this episode was „Zigarren für den Chef“ 1st time in german TV on August 7th, 1975. Roddy McDowell‘s german voice came from Tommi Piper. He was also the german voice for Paul Fusco in ALF. ALF was very popular in Germany, Austria and Swiss, because of Tommi Pipers voice. Best wishes from Austria, Harald 🇦🇹
Too funny, when I lived in Germany at that time, I knew people who were big fans of Alf. That puzzled me because it was such an odd duck of a show. Thanks for opening my eyes a bit for something I found a little odd.
I'm not surprised with "five cigars" rating at all. Never thought it might be a divisive episode among the fans. I always liked it, and the "gotcha" is among my Top 10 of the show. Roddy McDowall is great in this, not every villain needs to be the elegant stoic - it added to the variety. I never skip this one.
I’m sure somewhere in the over 450 comments somebody mentioned that the picture of Lou Brown as a twilight zone cast member was actually a picture of Russell Johnson a.k.a. The Professor from Gilligan’s Island. These videos are a lot of fun and very well done.
Yes, I seem to always be destined to make a mistake somewhere in every video. I have such sharp viewers that I can't pretend it never happened ;) I appreciate you being kind about it though! Thank you very much ❤️
@@WatchitforDays Mistakes happen. Everybody makes them. I am curious as to how you find these names in the first place? Are you using some sort of Face recognition app? The fact that you do this in the first place is a testament to your patience and persistence. The very fact that you’re catching and researching all these little details is appropriately COLUMBO-like. Extremely impressive.
@@richardmark9161 Thanks for being a little more down to Earth than some 😊 No, I don't use face recognition apps. I honestly didn't know such a thing existed! I research anyone listed on Internet Movie Database and identify faces in the episodes with any pictures included there. But if they have no pictures (which happen a lot more often than I would have ever expected), I try Google searching their name and attempt to find matching faces from different shows or movies. I can't always find everyone, even though I'd really like to. And then as time passes, I start recognizing them on my own from previous research.
@@WatchitforDays well that’s a lot of commitment I must say. I used to work in extras casting here in New York City for films and TV shows and commercials done here. I was pretty good at recognizing New York City extras because I personally worked with many of them back in the 90s. Besides the occasional mistake that anyone can make I hope you don’t mind that I make one critique. I’ve heard you mention this critique about yourself so of course you’re obviously aware that in some of your older videos you might have an issue from time to time with mispronunciations. I’m glad you have addressed this and you’re doing better with it. You’re doing a great job and I am enjoying the videos. Keep up the good work. I’ve watched my Columbo complete series box set a few times over the last several years. It’s nice to get your precisely researched point of view. Thank you.
As someone who has climbed San Jacinto I just wanted to give you a shout out that we tend to pronounce it San "Ya"cinto or "Ha"cinto. I know it doesn't really matter, but you always make such a point in your videos that we the commenters being such individual persons like to correct your pronunciation.
I really appreciate that! I don't remember where I read it but somewhere, while working on the episode, I read the J was pronounced. If I hadn't looked it up I would have pronounced it Ha cinto from knowing a little Spanish. Sometimes being too careful gets me into trouble, too 😁
@@WatchitforDays I totally understand. Even though I'm from here, I was double checking myself before commenting. I did find some people saying it is "Juh"cinto but I think there was some confusion about San Jacinto Texas and the mountains near San Bernardino 😅
@@WatchitforDays For pronouncing San Jacinto one can reference Peter Gabriel’s song San Jacinto off his 1982 album Security, not a huge Gabriel fan but a pretty good album (and his Passion has to be one of the best soundtracks ever, Scorsese’s movies are hit or miss but his soundtracks/scores are usually interesting - Bernard Herrmann on Taxi Driver is sublime, Herrmann also did Larry Cohen’s interesting It’s Alive, Larry Cohen having scripted a couple of Columbos). I took my kid up that tram in the winter one time to go sledding at the top, it was exhilarating and terrifying, when the tram passes over the cable posts it rocks around crazily, but we survived. At the time, my kid was the greatest thing in the universe, so of course we survived, and my kid continues to be the greatest thing in the universe to this very day, and forever into the future. As an aside, it is pure folly to take things at face value; being familiar with tv post production, assuredly most of the scenes in this episode had multiple takes, one of the main functions of editing is to puzzle together the best performance bits from the various takes.
Wow I was so afraid you stopped. I even watched some of the earlier videos 4 or 5 times because I enjoyed them so much. Happy to see a new video from you. :D
Love these. I've watched these shows so many times that I thought there was no more juice in the orange, but you draw things out that I hadn't notice. I always look up the episoe on IMDB so I can see facts about the back ground folks who make these shows work. You do a much better job that I do. I met William Windom back in 1979 in Athens Ga. He traveled around colleges giving his James Thurbur one-man-show. Afterwards, if you hung around, he would come back out and talk with all the drama majors, giving lots of great advice. "Say 'Yes" when they ask you if you can sing. If you get the part, go take singing lessons."
Once again, a very enjoyable look into a much underrated episode, love your detailed but casual analysis inti Columbo, and as a single man your soothing delivery is very satisfying to listen to , you have a deliciously individual voice 😉.
Columbo fans don't like this episode? I find that surprising...I like it quite a bit. That Roger is a clown made sense to me. The guy is a flipping genius, surrounded by small minds and he is bored. Worse he is disrespected by those small minds, and it rankles. He more or less murders his Uncle because Buckner disrespects and outmaneuvers Roger, and to relieve the boredom. That he kills Buckner and Quincy over something Roger doesn't care about (the business) doesn't matter to him. It sorta reminded me of Leopold and Loeb but without the evil intentions. Why were Roger and Columbo on that tower-thing? Story wise I would guess Roger was 'showing him around' in a way that didn't help Columbo. Production wise to have a different outdoor scene to break up the studio scenes. On the dubbing...being outside like that, they wouldn't have had any choice. There would have been too much outside noise to mic the actors. The other outside scenes would also have to be dubbed, but the tower being far away less time was spent making it look right. Recording dialog post-production (looping) is a tedious and time consuming process. That choice added production value while making the shot a lot easier. It was a cut corner imo. On Roger being adopted 'as an adult', he says he got his first PhD when he was 21. He was probably in his early teens when he went to college, so not an adult at all. On Benson...I never noticed that he was mentioned constantly but didn't get even one line or closeup. How much do you want to bet that 'Benson' was created post production to fix errors/holes in the script that were only noticed in the editing room? He was probably originally just an extra. The 'My wife says I'm second best, but 80 other guys are tied for first' is an old joke. It means that 80 other detectives are above/better than him. The end was beautiful. The genius panicked because of his arrogance, seeing Columbo as a stumbling fool made him a fool. I think that's why he was laughing at the end. Columbo used Roger's arrogance to trick him and he was self-aware enough to recognize and even appreciate it.
Roddy McDowell took home movies at many Hollywood parties in 1960's. It's nice to see those famous actors having fun socializing with each other - no false pretense.
I love those short films ! Everyone smoked cigarettes and there was NO food there . Roddy did NOT spend $$$$ on a fancy spread. There is one segment that - the camera just kinda pans ......and you're like "OMG - is that Judy Garland !"
I like this episode also, despite its, uh…edge of hokeyness. The final scene was burned into my memory from watching it as a child. Now that I am older, watching it again, the cinematography really does stand out. Your analysis is, as always, as superb as your commentary is amusing.
Regarding David wearing his belt so the buckle is off to the side: I remember people doing that when I was a kid back in the 60s and 70s. I figuered it was a fashion fad, but I heard a few reasons back then. 1 was that it gave a more uniformed look to a suit with the buckle not showing. 2 that it was a comfort thing because when you sat down the buckle didn't dig into your stomach and 3, it was influenced by musicians who didn't want their guitars to experience "buckle rash," which was the terrm for the marks a buckle would make on the belly of a guitar while it was being played.
Back, before I was fully addicted to original Columbo, I have a vague memory of thinking this episode was somewhat inferior. But now, it just doesn't matter. I enjoy each episode and your reviews have aided in that.
Ha! Your comment @30:57 about Roddy dressing to the left had me laughing out loud! I immediately hit the Subscribe button, then finished the video. You certainly do have a keen eye for detail. Poor Roddy had a penchant for wearing, shall we say, revealing polyester slacks during the 70s. He did the same reveal on the Carol Burnett Show in one of the Family skits where he plays Eunice's brother Philip. I'm afraid i fall into the camp of those who dislike this episode, and have from its first airing. I always thought it was poorly written and that it seemed rushed. Now I know why, thanks to your thorough research and engaging presentation. Well done.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write this amazing comment! I didn't know about the Carol Burnett pants appearance. I'm happy to know you enjoyed the review :)
Glad to see you got it back up and running but I was even happier that I was able to watch it before it was pulled down just in case keep up the good work
Agree with your synopsis of this episode…In many ways-Roger is one of the most Machiavellian villains…He murdered his uncle and the private eye chauffeur…He purposely dated the secretary just so he could take naked pictures of her and photo shop them into pictures with his uncle… now I don’t know how he could have taken pictures of his Uncle naked but maybe just had pictures of her doing a strip tease. Roger then wrote false letters on Quincy’s typewriter to get the other guy fired from the plant. He then became a complete bourgeois management type rudely staring down employees that he covered with silly string about a week beforehand… appreciate you going through these Columbo episodes as Columbo has been a part of my life since the tenth grade-1987-when my sophomore English teacher discussed the different premise of Columbo showing the murderer’s perspective… immediately began watching the older episodes and the newer one’s initially came out in 1989 or so… have enjoyed most of the episodes to varying degrees and even when do not think about or watch an episode for awhile-seeing a channel like this on RUclips brings back all those fond memories and is appreciated from a 51 year old guy’s perspective… thank you very much… And when you were curious why his wife said there were 80 guys tied for first-remember she likely may have never said that-that is Columbo’s way to disarm and lower the defenses of the murderer so they will underestimate him and most often initially judge his disheveled appearance as a reflection of his abilities… Columbo enjoys feeding into that bias-and when the murdered begins to recognize Columbo’s intelligence-it is often too late.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write all this. Your comment was very fun to read :) I'm so happy to know you're enjoying the videos! That is a great thought that I should have considered about Columbo encouraging Roger to underestimate him with he "80 fellas tied for first" comment. I love your final sentence "... when the murderer begins to recognize Columbo's intelligence- it is often too late."
@@WatchitforDays That could also explain why Columbo covered himself in Silly String in Roger's dark room/dark laboratory. Though it's depicted as an accident it plays into the theme, and maybe there was a test shot off camera directed away from himself, if not it was just providence or just something fun, yet appropriate put into the script, or maybe the formula for Silly String was developed at Union Carbide and they wanted it featured as much as possible in return for permission to film at their plant. It would be out of character for Columbo to spray anyone but himself once he got his hands on a can of Silly String.
Just watched this episode for the first time today and immediately recognised Roddy from the movie Class of 1984. In it he plays a teacher, a biology teacher . I love his quirky and charismatic performance in that and this episode 😊
I loved Roddy McDowall when I was a kid, the Planet of the Apes films were my favourite. He plays a right nasty little shit in this episode though.Great review btw.
One day, AI face recognition will be able to tag all these extras with just a few keystrokes, and then the hours(/days) of work(/spreadsheets) lovingly put into IMDb'ing the hell out of these videos will seem naught but a dream... 🙂 Loving your work WifD
@@WatchitforDays In addition to too tight pants Roddy is rocking a woman's watch, and wears a puffy sleeved shirt. And has a high pitched laugh. What a glorious decade to be alive!
Funny thing is I've seen the episode several times and never noticed the pants. Mr. McDowell was mostly closeted tho his relationship with Montgomery Cliff is known. He just missed world War 2, serving in the army from 1946 to 1962, as a corporal.
@@vladchan LOL! You're so right, lol! I was fixated, trying to figure out if he'd just bunched up his shirt wrong on that side when he tucked it in, lol!
Great analysis… well worth the wait! Someone else already pointed out that this was the third double murder, with the first occurring in Murder By The Book, but we can definitely say this was the first simultaneous double murder! And not the last either. I will theorize that Roger mentioned nitro glycerin was in the lab because he knows that Columbo had already searched the lab. Not mentioning the nitro glycerin might have been more suspicious than mentioning it… especially if he wanted to make it seem he had nothing to hide. I’m not sure if that’s what the writers intended, but that’s how I interpreted it. Can’t wait for Blueprint For Murder… 🙂
I know it, I'm so frustrated I never caught myself on that mistake! No matter how much time I spend editing and checking my videos before uploading, I seem to always miss something *sigh*. I'll be sure to correct it during the next double homicide episode. I like your theory about Roger and why he mentioned nitro glycerin. I bet you're right. I have begun collecting information on Blueprint for Murder :)
Your videos are on a Columbo level, as in top notch! I think the local policeman was telling Columbo that they were out from LA, as in they had just driven out from LA and therefore, he had no problem letting Columbo be in charge of the case. Or maybe he didn't want any trouble going against a Lieutenant from the big city. I hope you make a video for every episode! Thanks for taking the time to do such a great job!
Would you like to buy me a Coffee?☕
www.buymeacoffee.com/WatchItForDays
OR maybe a bowl of Chili?🥣
paypal.me/WatchItForDays
OR become my Patron?🍦
patreon.com/WatchitforDays
I was just doing some calculations. If the rate of release of these excellent, videos is going to be every two months. We will be enjoying it for the next 10 years. Now that is truly something to be looking forward to.
@@DouwedeJong Haha, I've also tried to estimate how long this was going to take me. I don't want two months to be normal!
My favorite show off all time!!
@chriscannon5822
Mine too; Chris.
&,
Please Note:
*of all time.
@@DouwedeJong
*the video release rate will be;...
This is by far the best channel on Columbo trivia. Great information without ripping each show completely apart ! 100/100 Cuban cigars.
You are extremely kind! Thank you very much ❤️
@@WatchitforDays
I also feel that way, too; Shonna-!
*much.
@@RobertOrgRobert
I agree w/: you fully!!
Tx.!
*apart!
I'm seriously getting addicted to all these wonderful breakdowns, I'm watching these more than the actual episodes!
I am so happy you enjoy the videos! ❤️
Yes, these things are great! Do you have Instagram or fb?
Me, too!; &, I'm so glad more others agree now; too!
Agreed;...these really are great; and; it seems like that's true about every one that you make; Shonna-!
Agreed! I want to do whatever I can to spread the word about this wonderful channel on the various Columbo-fans channels and comments I come across out in the virtual world :).
@@bestiefswlady5251
I feel that same way, too!
Hi Shonna,
The reason it's called a glove compartment is that old steering wheels were not padded like modern ones and therefore were uncomfortable to drive in the winter hence people *needed* gloves.
The big lighters that you like so much (I do as well) are desk lighters. Now we can't use them indoors, they are gone in favor of pocket lighters along with the ashtray which was common on desks and in restaurants.
Added to that cars used to be open contraptions with no heat.
This is an amazing comment! What wonderful insight on the glove compartment. Thank you :)
I didn't know my favorite lighters were called desk lighters. More great insight, thank you 🔥 I remember ash trays being on every table in restaurants and every table at family member's houses. Everyone was smoking
Thanks for the videos :)
Add the unique "White Castle" restaurant chain's "ashtray" coffee cups that had two indents in the bottom of the cup so it could be turned over and used as an ashtray and you get an idea of how big a part cigarette smoking played in American culture in the middle of the 20th Century.
Yup; great comments all around here; &, all true.
one of the great things about Roddy's performance is that he feels fairly unique amongst Columbo's opponents. Really surprised he was never bigger or more well remembered. To me he was playing both a genius and a fool. He was so sure in his own intelligence that if he couldn't think of it, than no one else could. I was surprised to hear that people don't like this episode. I won't call it a favorite, but I thought it was solidly done. REALLY surprised it was done in 10 days. There is something a little funny about the studio going "FALK HAS NEVER DIRECTED BEFORE WE NEED A BACKUP EPISODE! but who can we get to direct it?!? how about this editor who has never directed an episode? YeAH. That makes sense!! (i'm sure editing lends itself to directing more). Thanks for all the interesting facts. There is always so much more to learn about each episode. Harley Davidson golfcart... I would never have known and I'm glad i do now!! Your content is the best on the website!!
I had the same thought about Falk never directing before and Abroms never directing before. Thank you for taking the time to write this nice long comment, I enjoyed reading it very much!
I love the end in the episode I have never seen all episodes but I have seen this one a few times, after much time I have to acknowledge the genus of Roddy McDowall, he also was in Cleopatra and The Longest Day, definitely a great actor, I have become a fan after many decade's.
Roddy was an amazing and underrated actor.
@@halfrutter2226 He was wonderful as a medium in 'The Legend of Hell House'. McDowall could hit several punches up from his fey public Hollywood persona when given a good serious dramatic role, and hit very hard.
Roddy was a real professional and a truly nice person in real life. Several modern em, 'actors' could/should take note....
Considering it was done in 10 days I'd say it's one of the best made episodes
I think it's impressive considering the situation
@@WatchitforDays
I'm definitely agreed!!
*situation.
Incredible! Dude was an incredible asset to pull this off
@@wherami
I'm also very agreed.
*off.
@@nothankyouRUclips420
I am also strongly agreed!
*Considering that;...
&, See Below; Too:
*days;
I think this is an underrated episode. The ending is one of the better endings of the series. Thank you so much for this!
I agree with you! One of my favorite endings of all time.
@@WatchitforDays This one, The Bye-Bye-Sky-High IQ Case, and Columbo Goes to the Guillotine all have great endings
@@WillCWilson
Yes; for this; &, your first example; BUT, NO FOR YOUR 3RD EXAMPLE-!!; imogo; of course. See Below; Too!:
*endings.
I do think that the key to McDowall's performance is that he was a 44 year old being asked to play a much much younger character, hence the slightly over the top youthful post-hippie exuberance (which is indeed a lot of fun to watch).
Great channel!
Good point!
@@karimmore2199
Great points-!
I'm rather agreed-!!
Yep, I'll buy that.
My mom was working for 20th Century Fox in the late sixties and she brought home 3 extra's masks from the original Planet of the Apes. Real fake hair, a beautiful "paint" and a velcro flap in the back. The masks were terrifyingly realistic, especially if you matched eye shadow to the ape-skin color (like Batman's black eyes). I was 14 and my bud Steve and I ran through Westwood (very upscale) Village with our masks on, acting like running apes and we literally terrified the populace for an hour and I got a whole bag of leftover french fries when we ran through Woody's, the hip hangout for U.C.L.A. students and other young folk. We didn't get arrested, we were that good. The french fries were amazing.
Your story is very entertaining! Thank you for sharing. Now I want French fries.
So what happened to the masks? I know of people who would love to get their hands on something like that. Not trying to buy them. I just know they'd be big collectibles.
@@grannyweatherwax8005 - the masks were made of a specific kind of rubber and fake hair and over the decades the rubber just disintegrates and crumbles away. Literally it rots, like the belts in my half-dozen cassette recorders. The year was 1968.
Highly enjoyable Colombo trivia. Plus a sprinkle of 1970s TV/cultural history AND a good dose of 'deep' history. Great stuff.
Thank you very much for this gift, Juppy! I'm so happy you enjoyed the video ❤️
@@TakeTheRedPill_Now
Agreed.
*'Columbo' trivia.
@@WatchitforDays
Me, too; I am also agreed-!
*video.
I almost enjoy your breakdowns more than the episodes themselves. You bring so much insight to the whole thing. Great job. I also couldn’t pick a favourite episode either.
William Windom for me will always be Doc Haslett on Murder She Wote, another favourite series of mine.
You are so generously kind to me! Thank you very much, Uncle Bob :)
@@WatchitforDays you must put such a great amount of time into each episode, you deserve praise. Thank you for all your hard work…and your humour/sarcastic wit
@@bobuncle8704 It does take a very long time to make one of these videos and the wonderful encouragement like yours is such a great reward.
@@WatchitforDays ☺
@@bobuncle8704
Agreed!
*wit.
One of my biggest complaints about this episode... not enough Benson.
He was clearly the mover and shaker of the plot.
! You made me laugh out loud! I absolutely agree with you, the guy who played Benson deserved an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor.
@@WatchitforDays Or maybe even a Benson spinoff series 🤔.
Yes! Universal and NBC need to get on that
Lol agreed! How perceptive of you!
@@griffinblue4748 that is a nod to the Robert Guilliaume spinoff Benson (a spinoff of his butler character from Soap) right?
I was obsessed with this episode when I was a kid, absolutely loved it, constantly played with an old camera after I saw it. Today I may be a little sentimental, but I think Roddy McDowell's performance is an absolute gem! It aged really well, it's dynamic, interesting... And the editing at the end is superb.
PS Thank you for the video, BTW, I really enjoy your content, and subscribed right away.
I totally agree with you! And thank you very much for the encouragement, I'm so glad you're here 😊
Yup.
You again! We missed you but meticulous research like yours is much more time consuming than slapping something together. My most rewarding laugh out loud moment was when you inserted the glove box routine from the adventures of Frank Drebbin. Who would believe that he had once been engaged to a scheming, narcissistic murderer who dressed like a dork? Your work is unique. It's something I could watch for days.
All the best from Colombia.
I'm happy to hear you got a good laugh! Thank you for your wonderful kindness, my Columbian Columbo friend :)
This is some of the best Columbo-posting I’ve seen.
You are so kind, Owen, thank you!
@@WatchitforDays
I thoroughly agree; too!
@owenc1023
Agreed-!
*'Columbo'-posting that;...
I agree with your opinion about Short Fuse. Never understood why it rates so low for some people. Roddy is very entertaining in this! And it's a good watch! Thanks for another great episode!
I'm happy to find another Short Fuse appreciator 😊
@@mikebrowne477
It is very entertaining to me, too!
*"Short Fuse".
Lame story line
I've always loved this episode. anytime Roddy McDowell was on screen in any movie he made, he captured the screen. He did in Overboard with his memorable role as the Butler, as well as The Poseidon Adventure.. and who could forget Cornelius from the planet of the apes. And by the way thanks for the Colombo chronology. I actually did not know that. Enjoy the coffees
Thank you, Ben! You are wonderfully kind to me ❤️
i dont understand why so many people hate this episode its one of my favorites
I agree with you!
I thought columbo's trap made it a classic ending so I also was surprised ppl didn't like the ep.
I think it's the worst episode they ever did :/ Even worse than that weird one with the sea admiral
they hate it because the villian/murder is a spoiled brat. Audiences dont like him and find him unworthy of Columbo 🤭
@kianapeake3670
That's probably very; very much true!! Wow!-I love the points you made-!
&,
*They;...
Outstanding video. Excellent production. Superb narration.
Thank you very much, Roberto
Thanks for uploading another great Columbo episode review. Didn't know Harley Davidson made golf carts as well as motorcycles. I know which future Columbo episode you mentioned Anne Francis will be appearing in, but I'll just say that I won't give it away to your viewers until you review it.
I didn't know Harley Davidson made golf carts either until I started researching for this episode.
I really enjoy the next episode Anne Francis is in. Another one of my favorites.
@@WatchitforDays Looking forward to to your next episode review when you have it ready.
Thank you, Kevin :)
It's funny that you uploaded this today as I JUST watched this episode yesterday morning and was hoping that you would review it! Great job as always! 😊❤️
It was meant to be!
I've made it a habit of watching these analyses just as soon as I finish watching an episode for the first time. It makes the journey that much more incredible.
@@HighPriestFuneral
Neat!/Sounds like a great idea.
Very interesting to hear you say that Universal ordered this episode cause they were worried Falk’s directed episode wouldnt be airable. Ive only ever heard it said by Schlock Horror and Columbophile that they got greedy and wanted an extra episode to make more money. That insight you provided sheds more light on the situation!
Also, I believe that “my wife says im second best” line is supposed to be a joke/dig at himself by Columbo. being second best would be pretty impressive.. but if theres 80 guys tied for first hes actually middle of the road at best.
Thank you for sharing a little insight on the "second best" comment :)
yeah I feel there is an ongoing jokes that, though they love each other, Mrs columbo is kinda sassy, and it's not uncommon for older couples to talk about their spouses and their marriage in a negative joking way, even if they love them. I kinda Like Mrs Columbo. I think it was just to the right of good. Kate Mulgrew doesn't fit my image created by columbo, but maybe he didn't want any killers going after his wife and family (never mentions a kid). Even though one does. but yeah the shows really don't mesh well. honestly the Mrs Columbo where they go after the mentally disturbed ventriloqust is... well...disturbing. stayed with me. Even if it's not really accurate to how ventriloquism or most mental illness is.
@@Lazrael32 Thank you for sharing all of your thoughts, here, Mark. Very fun to read
*he is
I like what you did there at the end: Watch it for Days. XD
This episode is a little confusing, but yea, I love it too. Roger is a very individual villain, in a fun way.
Also, also: the way you address the um...dickering...was very tactful. Perhaps you should be a mediator; so smooth. ^^
Thanks for putting another one of these together. Happy you got another interesting lighter too, hee.
:) Thank you, Dana! I like that, "individual villain."
I'm glad you liked the dickering moment, haha
Thank you for your kindness, I'm so happy you enjoyed the video!
@@WatchitforDays
Yup, I really loved your whole: "Dickering" thing, too!
Roddy McDowall is one of 2 actors to play villains arrested by both Columbo and Batman. The other was Anne Baxter. Roddy played the Bookworm on Batman. He was very effective at playing villains who were nerdy and yet menacing. This was actually the third double murder in the series, after Murder by the Book and Suitable for Framing. And I believe it was the only time when two characters were murdered simultaneously. I tried to ride on the tram last winter, but I didn’t make a reservation and the wait would’ve been too long.
Thank you for sharing all that wonderful extra Roddy info :)
Yes, I made a mistake in my script and didn't catch it until it was too late, unfortunately.
I would like to ride the sky tram some day
What a coup to get Silly String before it was released to the public.
The plot did confuse me several times especially when Roger was hanging out at Quincy's apartment.
I think the chemical plant and tram locations were extremely well done for TV at that time.
I wondered why DL had a picture of himself on his desk too. Kinda narcissistic or maybe he just really liked the picture, hmmm.
The cut from the office to the tower made me wonder if we were supposed to believe Roger's office was up there!
The white outfit Doris wears early in the episode is real elegant.
I've never know anyone to wear their Honor's Society medal in general public but it does work well for the ending.
Love the thoroughness and humor of your review and how you defy expectations here and there in your editing.
Thank you very much, Paul! Your comment was fun to read. I'm so happy to hear you enjoyed the video :)
I had originally thought it was a picture of his brother (or brother in law depending). but it does seem to be of himself. so.... some mysteries aren't meant to be solved.
About the photo on the desk. I wonder if the scene with Roddy at the desk where he puts the photo face down (and Columbo comes and says, “this must have fallen over “ was filmed first. And then the photo was mistakenly left behind when they filmed the scenes with Uncle David still alive.
Who on earth would dislike this classic episode? I loved it.
Lots of people, it's wild!
@@WatchitforDays
Yes; however; I am able to see both sides; and; I can, also imagine at least some, even if ONLY ->just a few; of their objections.
You, young lady, absolutely crack me up. Your sparkling writing, along with a playful delivery, thoroughly compliment the depth and breadth you bring to each review. Another splendid job. Thank you! Btw... you should consider learning more about Ida Lupino. She was gnarly AF.
Thank you very much for these huge compliments! That means a lot to me :) I'll do some more reading on Ida... Have an amazing day, William
Anyone who pronounces 'issue' with the 'ss' sound instead of 'sh' is obviously to be feared and respected!
@@stevew1487 hahaha
I was surprised when you mentioned that there are people who dislike this episode. Every Columbo episode has issues, but to me it's whether I've enjoyed watching it. This episode has one of the most memorable endings of any of them and has stayed with me for decades (especially that laugh at the end). And as you say, it's beautifully filmed.
I get goosebumps during the ending when Roger's laugh is echoing. One of my favorites, for sure.
Until I saw your channel, I have never liked "recap" videos. But your amazing knowledge, great research, tremendous attention to detail, and sly sense of humor make your channel this one of the best on RUclips. As a longtime Columbo fan, I now want to go back and rewatch them all with all the things I've learned.
I had the pleasure of meeting Roddy in 87, he was pleasant and seemed surprised I liked his acting. Quite modest for a great actor.
That's really cool!
Funny you said that - when Fright Night was about to come out - we got passes to a VIP room at the (notorious) Limelight in NYC. It was a party to promote the movie . We had hopes to meet Roddy - and - rehearsed WHAT we would ask him or talk about. We got to this VIP room and ..no Roddy anywhere in sight. We stayed for a few hours - just a bunch of people hanging out - NOBODY there looked like they were in the movie business. I don't remember much more about that night ....
Loving your reviews! I've been watching Columbo for YEARS and have seen them all multiple times, yet you are pointing out things I've never noticed... And now I can't unsee them. Thanks again.. Always look forward to the next one..and can't wait until you review my favourite episode ...
Thank you very much, Paul! I appreciate all the encouragement ❤️ What is your favorite episode?
@@WatchitforDays You have a few seasons to go yet ;)
@@paulfraser1971 So it'll probably be a while, but I'll be looking forward to learning which episode it is :)
I’m an avid Columbo fan, now Im addicted to your reviews! Kudos on your excellence on these reviews. Love your work. 💯💯
You are wonderfully kind, Pauly! Thank you very much ☺️
I'm new to Columbo, but immediately fell in love with Peter Falk's work. Just brilliant. Your channel is wonderful and you do a great job recapping and analyzing the episodes. I hope you keep on doing it. Thank you very much, from Brazil.
I really appreciate that! Yes, I plan to work on every episode.
Oh wow, it's back up!😮
That's pretty cool!😊
Wow, how are you able to see this video??? I currently have it unlisted until all the restrictions are off of it
@@WatchitforDays Ah, I think it still shows up on the Columbo Series playlist, since that's where I was watching them through
Well you were my lucky first viewer :) I was just alerted that my video has been released
Great stuff.. so funny thankyou for making such an effort to generously and humorously review! Your commentary often reflects my own obscure observations in these fantastic 70’s episodes, I could watch them for the kitch interior decor alone! Brilliantly researched thank you again. I live in Italy and watch through a few from a boxed set come wintertime but your overlays add a huge smile..
Thank you very much! Wintertime is a great time to watch Columbo 😊
This episode has my favorite opening credit music of the entire series. It's so groovy.
I agree, it's amazing
I don't think I would rate this as one of my favorite episodes but I do find it enjoyable. Roddy McDowell is an actor I remember seeing when I was younger and although he was a little over the top it wasn't as bad as the acting in some of the future Columbo episodes. Regarding his, um wardrobe malfunction, I just assumed the cigars moved from the back of his pants to the front... Maybe not. The only acting I had some trouble with in this episode was Ann Francis, primarily due to her much better acting in "A Stitch in Crime".
Good summary, well worth the wait!
Thank you, NorCal! That's an interesting hypothesis, lol.
Yes, Anne Francis has a much better character in her next episode.
I actually really like this episode because Roddy McDowall's character Roger Stanford is not easily spooked by Columbo unlike alot of the murder suspects he investigates. Roger plays it cool with Columbo, which means Columbo had to think and work hard to get him to crack, which is what makes the ending so satisfying when Columbo finally gets Roger on the ropes.
I agree with you!
Yep, at the end Roger was check mated at the Grand Master level. At one point in the tram he says to Columbo "Can you please just be quiet?" We the viewers might add "and let me blow up in peace?"
@@stevew1487 Oh and I would add that Columbo is pulling this bluff on Roger while in the aerial tram car, and it has been established that Columbo is uneasy about heights. Columbo is willing to deal with his own discomfort in order to get to the truth. Now that is dedication.
@@kendraressler4497 Even with the tram doors WIDE OPEN! I'd say he was so focused on trapping the mind of his killer, that for those few moments he literally wasn't even aware of his own fear.
How lovely to have another fantastic Watch it for Days to enjoy!
You're so kind, thank you very much :)
Epic!
That is a very fun fact! So, it's not too unheard of :)
Good point Perhaps the actor wore it to the side so it wouldn’t be uncomfortable for his belly if it protruded it over the buckle. Just a thought.
@@bettyjane6684 I can definitely see that as being possible!
This episode of columbo is the fantastic middle relief pitcher that doesn’t get the win or the save but bridged them over to the etude in black. Great job! Such a great review episode.
Thank you very much, Ramon :)
So glad I stumbled on these vids. The presenter has put so much effort in. They’re informative and amusing 🤭. Thanks from Manchester, England. 🙏🇬🇧
I'm so happy you enjoy them, my Manchester friend :)
I so look forward to these! Thank you once again. 🥰
I'm so happy you enjoy them, Tom :)
I think _80 guys tied for first place_ wouldn’t even qualify that statement as a backhanded compliment - it’s a flat out insult. For the past 15 years I’ve been helping people get their films into festivals while volunteering for a local film school. I know how much work it takes to make one of these Columbo reviews so really I appreciate you very much! These are really entertaining!
I really appreciate you and your encouraging comment! Thank you, Austin!
It's a self depreciating comment. Columbo's saying every one else in the department is better than him.
Just found your channel , love it . Always good to find someone who is a bigger columbophile than me .
Your research is excellent and gives me a great insight into each episode and each series , thank you 🙏
I'm so glad you're here! Thank you for your kindness
I just started watching your reviews maybe a week or so ago and I have to say that they are amazing. I can't wait until you get to Candidate for A Crime it's one of my favorite Columbo episode! Keep up the good work 😊
I'm so happy you are enjoying the videos! Candidate for Crime is also one of my favorites!
Highly enjoyed this, love your voice and the way you phrase things. Have seen all the Columbo episodes many times but never knew the back stories on them. I really appreciate you doing this and keep up the excellent work. A huge Columbo (Peter Falk) fan
Thank you very much, John! You are very encouraging :)
I never watched a full Columbo episode. Not in our NW 🇨🇦Canadian 2-channel offerings 'til 1974, then I was busy at University. Your terrific reviews pique my interest! Thank you.
I'm glad you enjoy them!
Glad you gave this episode the 5 out of 5 as i really like this episode and now knowing they had 10 days to shoot it, that makes it a great achievement to me and they pulled it off. the editing and direction as well as the cinematography and acting is brilliant for a 10 day shoot. By the way you would of loved my Grandmothers lighter, it was like a marble stone that you could light a cigarette with, it was huge and very much something of this time. Loving watching these at night here in the cold city of Aberdeen in Scotland.
You are a rare find! Almost everyone disagrees with my high rating of this episode (which I expected).
You're right about that, I am still searching for a big lighter to have of my own but I cannot find one.
Thank you for sharing you are in Aberdeen Scotland! I love hearing where folk are from. And thank you for your kind words, I'm so happy you're enjoying the videos!
Love it! I love your sense of humor! And I am amazed by your attention to the smallest details. You clearly put in a lot of work to make these videos.
A couple of things: you’re spot on about the Borgias. They were some interesting characters. And as regards “dressing to the left”? One thing which can be concluded from that is that Roddy McDowell was right handed. Not a great revelation as no doubt this can also be deduced from multiple scenes where he uses his hands, but it’s an interesting bit of human biological trivia.
I'm so happy you enjoyed the video! Your comment gave me a good chuckle about Roddy.
I always look forward to a new episode. Thank you! Point of L.A. area trivia. The mountain outside Palm Springs is pronounced Mount San Haw-Seen-Toe.
Thank you, Tim! I looked up the pronunciation of San Jacinto and I kept finding people saying the J was pronounced. Something to do with the Americans mispronouncing it since forever ago and because it is a formal name, they kept it that way. But what I read could of course be wrong since I am clearly not from that part of the country. When it comes to pronouncing names that I've never heard before and I try to find sources to help me, it never seems to work out, lol.
@@WatchitforDays Cool! And am I the only one who flashed on Seinfeld's Puffy Shirt episode when I saw Roddy's blue paisley get-up?
This has always been one of my favorite episodes! Even more enjoyable with the wealth of background info you supply.
Thank you!
I'm so happy you enjoyed it! It's also always nice to find another Short Fuse fan :)
WOW !!! Just today at tea break at work I was talking about this Columbo episode and Roddy's amazing Roddy . So glad you didn't gloss over it ( that would take a lot of glossin' ) . Brilliant Channel that I've now subscribed to .
That's amazing you were talking about Short Fuse during tea break! I'm so happy you're here to enjoy Columbo with me :)
I love this episode! Those early episodes had a great vibe to them and that is why they stand the test of time!! You do a truly amazing job making this videos!!
Thank you very much! I agree with your thoughts on the older episodes
I liked your timeline at the beginning which really clarified Falk's "strike."
I am going to have to re-watch this episode because of your review. Don't remember it as a strong episode.
I going to think of the McDowell character as an immature man boy, perhaps an only child. With his father running a chemical company he became brilliant at chemistry eventually graduating from university. When his father died young they put the Uncle in charge. However, when the Uncle sees McDowell not maturing he realizes that there is no future for the company as a family firm.
The silly string fits into that as it is something a immature but brilliant chemist would invent!
Your comment was fun to read. Thank you for sharing your thoughts about the story line, I liked it
I just caught this, and it's my first time on your channel. "Short Fuse" is one of my very top favorite Columbo episodes, and frankly it's all due to Roddy McDowall's wonderful performance. You simply cannot go wrong with Roddy. I now will look up my other faves on your channel. 🙂
I'm so happy you found me. I love Roddy's performances.
Thank you! It is so interesting to listen to you! 🤗
The German name of this episode was „Zigarren für den Chef“ 1st time in german TV on August 7th, 1975.
Roddy McDowell‘s german voice came from Tommi Piper. He was also the german voice for Paul Fusco in ALF.
ALF was very popular in Germany, Austria and Swiss, because of Tommi Pipers voice.
Best wishes from Austria, Harald 🇦🇹
Thank you for sharing that great information about Tommi Piper! Very interesting 😊
Back-translation: "Cigars For The Boss" (not for the cook!) 😂
Too funny, when I lived in Germany at that time, I knew people who were big fans of Alf. That puzzled me because it was such an odd duck of a show. Thanks for opening my eyes a bit for something I found a little odd.
I'm not surprised with "five cigars" rating at all. Never thought it might be a divisive episode among the fans. I always liked it, and the "gotcha" is among my Top 10 of the show. Roddy McDowall is great in this, not every villain needs to be the elegant stoic - it added to the variety. I never skip this one.
I totally agree!
I’m sure somewhere in the over 450 comments somebody mentioned that the picture of Lou Brown as a twilight zone cast member was actually a picture of Russell Johnson a.k.a. The Professor from Gilligan’s Island.
These videos are a lot of fun and very well done.
Yes, I seem to always be destined to make a mistake somewhere in every video. I have such sharp viewers that I can't pretend it never happened ;) I appreciate you being kind about it though! Thank you very much ❤️
@@WatchitforDays Mistakes happen. Everybody makes them.
I am curious as to how you find these names in the first place?
Are you using some sort of Face recognition app? The fact that you do this in the first place is a testament to your patience and persistence.
The very fact that you’re catching and researching all these little details is appropriately COLUMBO-like.
Extremely impressive.
@@richardmark9161 Thanks for being a little more down to Earth than some 😊
No, I don't use face recognition apps. I honestly didn't know such a thing existed! I research anyone listed on Internet Movie Database and identify faces in the episodes with any pictures included there. But if they have no pictures (which happen a lot more often than I would have ever expected), I try Google searching their name and attempt to find matching faces from different shows or movies. I can't always find everyone, even though I'd really like to. And then as time passes, I start recognizing them on my own from previous research.
@@WatchitforDays well that’s a lot of commitment I must say.
I used to work in extras casting here in New York City for films and TV shows and commercials done here. I was pretty good at recognizing New York City extras because I personally worked with many of them back in the 90s.
Besides the occasional mistake that anyone can make I hope you don’t mind that I make one critique. I’ve heard you mention this critique about yourself so of course you’re obviously aware that in some of your older videos you might have an issue from time to time with mispronunciations.
I’m glad you have addressed this and you’re doing better with it.
You’re doing a great job and I am enjoying the videos.
Keep up the good work.
I’ve watched my Columbo complete series box set a few times over the last several years. It’s nice to get your precisely researched point of view.
Thank you.
As someone who has climbed San Jacinto I just wanted to give you a shout out that we tend to pronounce it San "Ya"cinto or "Ha"cinto. I know it doesn't really matter, but you always make such a point in your videos that we the commenters being such individual persons like to correct your pronunciation.
I really appreciate that! I don't remember where I read it but somewhere, while working on the episode, I read the J was pronounced. If I hadn't looked it up I would have pronounced it Ha cinto from knowing a little Spanish. Sometimes being too careful gets me into trouble, too 😁
@@WatchitforDays I totally understand. Even though I'm from here, I was double checking myself before commenting. I did find some people saying it is "Juh"cinto but I think there was some confusion about San Jacinto Texas and the mountains near San Bernardino 😅
@@WatchitforDays For pronouncing San Jacinto one can reference Peter Gabriel’s song San Jacinto off his 1982 album Security, not a huge Gabriel fan but a pretty good album (and his Passion has to be one of the best soundtracks ever, Scorsese’s movies are hit or miss but his soundtracks/scores are usually interesting - Bernard Herrmann on Taxi Driver is sublime, Herrmann also did Larry Cohen’s interesting It’s Alive, Larry Cohen having scripted a couple of Columbos). I took my kid up that tram in the winter one time to go sledding at the top, it was exhilarating and terrifying, when the tram passes over the cable posts it rocks around crazily, but we survived. At the time, my kid was the greatest thing in the universe, so of course we survived, and my kid continues to be the greatest thing in the universe to this very day, and forever into the future. As an aside, it is pure folly to take things at face value; being familiar with tv post production, assuredly most of the scenes in this episode had multiple takes, one of the main functions of editing is to puzzle together the best performance bits from the various takes.
Another amazing and well researched video, thank you!
Thank you very much, Elizabeth :)
Wow I was so afraid you stopped. I even watched some of the earlier videos 4 or 5 times because I enjoyed them so much. Happy to see a new video from you. :D
I promise I have not stopped ❤️ Thank you for your kind words, Julia :)
I've always wondered how car phones worked before cellphones were invented.
I also wonder that...
Love these. I've watched these shows so many times that I thought there was no more juice in the orange, but you draw things out that I hadn't notice. I always look up the episoe on IMDB so I can see facts about the back ground folks who make these shows work. You do a much better job that I do.
I met William Windom back in 1979 in Athens Ga. He traveled around colleges giving his James Thurbur one-man-show. Afterwards, if you hung around, he would come back out and talk with all the drama majors, giving lots of great advice. "Say 'Yes" when they ask you if you can sing. If you get the part, go take singing lessons."
Thank you very much for this encouraging comment 😊
That's incredible you met William Windom! Interesting advice!
Great review. I love Short Fuse too. The ending is amazing & very tense.
Thank you very much, Tyckle :) Yes, the ending is amazing, I love it.
I enjoy your vids so much…. I watch these on ALL my work breaks. You’re becoming a legend. Sincerely.
Your comment means a whole lot to me, thank you very much!
Ida Lupino besides being a famous movie actress she was also one of the few female directors.
Okay, you are absolutely right! :)
Once again, a very enjoyable look into a much underrated episode, love your detailed but casual analysis inti Columbo, and as a single man your soothing delivery is very satisfying to listen to , you have a deliciously individual voice 😉.
Haha, thank you very much ❤️
@@WatchitforDays ❤️
Another great video, thank you
I'm so glad you enjoyed it, Kim :)
I loved your analysis and format. Thanks for everything!
Thank you very much!
🤣 Sometimes you just can't get rid of a bomb!
Well it's true! 💣
One of the best episodes. Roddy McDowall was just awesome. So glad you make this videos. You're great at it.
Thank you very much ❤️
Roddy McDowall was a masterclass actor. He exuded tension and madness in the cable car scene so effortlessly.
Yes, I absolutely agree!
Thanks for your reviews. I'm amazed at how much detail you know about each episode. Despite the fact that they were made 50 odd years ago.
Lots and lots of research. I'm so happy you enjoyed it
Columbo fans don't like this episode? I find that surprising...I like it quite a bit. That Roger is a clown made sense to me. The guy is a flipping genius, surrounded by small minds and he is bored. Worse he is disrespected by those small minds, and it rankles. He more or less murders his Uncle because Buckner disrespects and outmaneuvers Roger, and to relieve the boredom. That he kills Buckner and Quincy over something Roger doesn't care about (the business) doesn't matter to him. It sorta reminded me of Leopold and Loeb but without the evil intentions.
Why were Roger and Columbo on that tower-thing? Story wise I would guess Roger was 'showing him around' in a way that didn't help Columbo. Production wise to have a different outdoor scene to break up the studio scenes. On the dubbing...being outside like that, they wouldn't have had any choice. There would have been too much outside noise to mic the actors. The other outside scenes would also have to be dubbed, but the tower being far away less time was spent making it look right. Recording dialog post-production (looping) is a tedious and time consuming process. That choice added production value while making the shot a lot easier. It was a cut corner imo.
On Roger being adopted 'as an adult', he says he got his first PhD when he was 21. He was probably in his early teens when he went to college, so not an adult at all. On Benson...I never noticed that he was mentioned constantly but didn't get even one line or closeup. How much do you want to bet that 'Benson' was created post production to fix errors/holes in the script that were only noticed in the editing room? He was probably originally just an extra.
The 'My wife says I'm second best, but 80 other guys are tied for first' is an old joke. It means that 80 other detectives are above/better than him.
The end was beautiful. The genius panicked because of his arrogance, seeing Columbo as a stumbling fool made him a fool. I think that's why he was laughing at the end. Columbo used Roger's arrogance to trick him and he was self-aware enough to recognize and even appreciate it.
Wow, thank you for taking the time to write all this and share your thoughts and insights! I loved reading your comment, Ocrilat :)
Roddy McDowell took home movies at many Hollywood parties in 1960's. It's nice to see those famous actors having fun socializing with each other - no false pretense.
It's true
I love those short films ! Everyone smoked cigarettes and there was NO food there . Roddy did NOT spend $$$$ on a fancy spread. There is one segment that - the camera just kinda pans ......and you're like "OMG - is that Judy Garland !"
I like this episode also, despite its, uh…edge of hokeyness. The final scene was burned into my memory from watching it as a child. Now that I am older, watching it again, the cinematography really does stand out. Your analysis is, as always, as superb as your commentary is amusing.
Thank you, Danth... You always have such kind things to say :)
@@WatchitforDays Well, because you are such an individual person, you deserve them all, that and more!
@@Danthonyt awwww... thank you ❤️
You have the most amazing eye for detecting little-known background actors and extras! Bravo!
Thank you very much, Hawk!
Regarding David wearing his belt so the buckle is off to the side: I remember people doing that when I was a kid back in the 60s and 70s. I figuered it was a fashion fad, but I heard a few reasons back then. 1 was that it gave a more uniformed look to a suit with the buckle not showing. 2 that it was a comfort thing because when you sat down the buckle didn't dig into your stomach and 3, it was influenced by musicians who didn't want their guitars to experience "buckle rash," which was the terrm for the marks a buckle would make on the belly of a guitar while it was being played.
Thank you for taking the time to write this amazing comment! Very interesting belt buckle information.
That is really cool to know. Thanks for posting the info.
Great commentary. This was one of my favorite Colombo episodes 😂.
Thank you very much😊
Fun Fact: Roddy McDowall also voiced Jervis Tetch aka The Mad Hatter in Batman: The Animated Series in the 90's. 😊
He does a terrific job to, his voice had so much character
He also played The Bookworm on the 1966 Adam West TV show.
@@barrymurphy1337 he certainly did. I had forgotten about that. Thank you!
I love Batman The Animated Series. It has exceptional writing. Certainly a cartoon adults can enjoy.
Wow. I thought I was the biggest Columbo fan. You're work here is incredible, Shonna.
Thank you very much! I really appreciate that ❤️
The opening titles when Roddy McDowall is driving and looking smug while smoke and mechanical noises infuse the background is epic.
You got that right. Very epic!
The puff of black smoke was pretty terrific. I wonder if that was planned or just a happy little accident.
@@mjanovec I also wonder that
Back, before I was fully addicted to original Columbo, I have a vague memory of thinking this episode was somewhat inferior. But now, it just doesn't matter. I enjoy each episode and your reviews have aided in that.
That is good to hear!
Ha! Your comment @30:57 about Roddy dressing to the left had me laughing out loud! I immediately hit the Subscribe button, then finished the video. You certainly do have a keen eye for detail. Poor Roddy had a penchant for wearing, shall we say, revealing polyester slacks during the 70s. He did the same reveal on the Carol Burnett Show in one of the Family skits where he plays Eunice's brother Philip. I'm afraid i fall into the camp of those who dislike this episode, and have from its first airing. I always thought it was poorly written and that it seemed rushed. Now I know why, thanks to your thorough research and engaging presentation. Well done.
Thank you very much for taking the time to write this amazing comment! I didn't know about the Carol Burnett pants appearance. I'm happy to know you enjoyed the review :)
Yes indeed. "Dressing to the left" had me chuckling too. Those trousers left absolutely nothing to the imagination. Not a thing.
Glad to see you got it back up and running but I was even happier that I was able to watch it before it was pulled down just in case keep up the good work
Thank you very much, Mark! ❤️
Been a long time since I've had the time to comment. Great episode as usual
Thank you very much, Rich!
@@WatchitforDays No thank you for the videos. It's an awesome distraction from real life when I can sit back and watch one of your awesome videos
@@richspeck8932 awww...... I understand. It is nice to have a distraction from the world around us sometimes...
@@WatchitforDays You are absolutely one of the people I turn to for my entertainment. I love you're videos and look forward to them
I LOVED this! All the backgrounds of the actors and history of the lift the info about Silly String.
Thank you very much! I'm so happy you enjoyed it :)
Agree with your synopsis of this episode…In many ways-Roger is one of the most Machiavellian villains…He murdered his uncle and the private eye chauffeur…He purposely dated the secretary just so he could take naked pictures of her and photo shop them into pictures with his uncle… now I don’t know how he could have taken pictures of his Uncle naked but maybe just had pictures of her doing a strip tease. Roger then wrote false letters on Quincy’s typewriter to get the other guy fired from the plant. He then became a complete bourgeois management type rudely staring down employees that he covered with silly string about a week beforehand… appreciate you going through these Columbo episodes as Columbo has been a part of my life since the tenth grade-1987-when my sophomore English teacher discussed the different premise of Columbo showing the murderer’s perspective… immediately began watching the older episodes and the newer one’s initially came out in 1989 or so… have enjoyed most of the episodes to varying degrees and even when do not think about or watch an episode for awhile-seeing a channel like this on RUclips brings back all those fond memories and is appreciated from a 51 year old guy’s perspective… thank you very much…
And when you were curious why his wife said there were 80 guys tied for first-remember she likely may have never said that-that is Columbo’s way to disarm and lower the defenses of the murderer so they will underestimate him and most often initially judge his disheveled appearance as a reflection of his abilities… Columbo enjoys feeding into that bias-and when the murdered begins to recognize Columbo’s intelligence-it is often too late.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write all this. Your comment was very fun to read :) I'm so happy to know you're enjoying the videos!
That is a great thought that I should have considered about Columbo encouraging Roger to underestimate him with he "80 fellas tied for first" comment. I love your final sentence "... when the murderer begins to recognize Columbo's intelligence- it is often too late."
@@WatchitforDays That could also explain why Columbo covered himself in Silly String in Roger's dark room/dark laboratory. Though it's depicted as an accident it plays into the theme, and maybe there was a test shot off camera directed away from himself, if not it was just providence or just something fun, yet appropriate put into the script, or maybe the formula for Silly String was developed at Union Carbide and they wanted it featured as much as possible in return for permission to film at their plant. It would be out of character for Columbo to spray anyone but himself once he got his hands on a can of Silly String.
Today is my first experience with your channel. I really like it. I’m hooked, giving the full make and model of the cars is fantastic. It all is.
I really appreciate that and I'm so glad you're here 😊
Honey West was in the Leonard Nimoy (doctor) episode. She played the nurse who met her fate in the parking garage.
You're absolutely right
Just watched this episode for the first time today and immediately recognised Roddy from the movie Class of 1984. In it he plays a teacher, a biology teacher . I love his quirky and charismatic performance in that and this episode 😊
Thank you for sharing that reference!
Ida Lupino was the first woman to direct a Hollywood movie. As well as being a prolific actress.
Very interesting, Suzanne, thank you for sharing!
Ida Lupino was a great actress and she had a remarkable career. She was also the first woman to direct an episode of "Twilight Zone."
Thanks for all your videos. I watch them over and over because they are just outstanding.
@@artmccarthy3268 awwww, that means a lot to me!!
I loved Roddy McDowall when I was a kid, the Planet of the Apes films were my favourite. He plays a right nasty little shit in this episode though.Great review btw.
He is quite the fella in this episode, but i get a kick out of him.
Thank you very much!
One day, AI face recognition will be able to tag all these extras with just a few keystrokes, and then the hours(/days) of work(/spreadsheets) lovingly put into IMDb'ing the hell out of these videos will seem naught but a dream... 🙂
Loving your work WifD
Your comment made me laugh ❤️ Thank you for that!
Roger's wardrobe did not malfunction. Look at the rock stars from the 70s flaunt their "packages".
Haha, yes, that's very true. Those pants were in fashion... Roddy definitely got his chance to flaunt it and it'll always be remembered.
@@WatchitforDays In addition to too tight pants Roddy is rocking a woman's watch, and wears a puffy sleeved shirt. And has a high pitched laugh. What a glorious decade to be alive!
Funny thing is I've seen the episode several times and never noticed the pants.
Mr. McDowell was mostly closeted tho his relationship with Montgomery Cliff is known.
He just missed world War 2, serving in the army from 1946 to 1962, as a corporal.
@@macmcleod1188 you are obviously not a woman. Women notice guys endowments even though they claim otherwise.
@@vladchan LOL! You're so right, lol! I was fixated, trying to figure out if he'd just bunched up his shirt wrong on that side when he tucked it in, lol!
I watch these videos whenever I have a break at work. Please keep making them.
Aww, I am working on the next one :)
Great analysis… well worth the wait! Someone else already pointed out that this was the third double murder, with the first occurring in Murder By The Book, but we can definitely say this was the first simultaneous double murder! And not the last either.
I will theorize that Roger mentioned nitro glycerin was in the lab because he knows that Columbo had already searched the lab. Not mentioning the nitro glycerin might have been more suspicious than mentioning it… especially if he wanted to make it seem he had nothing to hide. I’m not sure if that’s what the writers intended, but that’s how I interpreted it.
Can’t wait for Blueprint For Murder… 🙂
I know it, I'm so frustrated I never caught myself on that mistake! No matter how much time I spend editing and checking my videos before uploading, I seem to always miss something *sigh*. I'll be sure to correct it during the next double homicide episode.
I like your theory about Roger and why he mentioned nitro glycerin. I bet you're right.
I have begun collecting information on Blueprint for Murder :)
If it wasn't for that Silly String, Columbo may have found Rogers copy of Eddie Cane's book!
Your videos are on a Columbo level, as in top notch! I think the local policeman was telling Columbo that they were out from LA, as in they had just driven out from LA and therefore, he had no problem letting Columbo be in charge of the case. Or maybe he didn't want any trouble going against a Lieutenant from the big city. I hope you make a video for every episode! Thanks for taking the time to do such a great job!
Thank you very much! I really appreciate your encouragement! I plan to make a video for every episode 😊