Common Sense Media Review
By Jenny Nixon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Influential '70s cop show is still captivating and charming.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
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Columbo
What's the Story?
COLUMBO is a classic, long-running detective show starring Peter Falk as Los Angeles Police Department homicide detective Lieutenant Columbo. The bulk of the series aired during the 1970s, with additional episodes and occasional specials released less frequently from 1989-2003. Columbo himself is a quirky, perenially disheveled cop whose superficially unassuming nature belies the highly intelligent super-sleuth within. Unlike traditional "whodunit" shows, Columbo is structured in reverse: the audience knows from the start of each episode who the criminal is, having just witnessed the murder take place. The fun is in then seeing the skillful and persistent Columbo trick these increasingly irate and frustrated suspects into incriminating themselves via relentless badgering; his catchphrase, a tossed-off "Just one more thing...", often uttered just as the criminal thinks Columbo is going to leave in defeat.
Is It Any Good?
Series star Peter Falk is utterly captivating as the sloppy yet sly detective with a fondness for cigars, baseball, and his pet dog (named, naturally, "Dog"). He's the perfect actor to portray Columbo, whose unpretentious presence and blue-collar affect contrast wildly with the largely upper-crust, narcissistic murderers who seem to believe they are above the law. It's a delight watching him outsmart these phonies and creeps -- and the roster of incredible guest stars (Janet Leigh, Dean Stockwell, Martin Sheen, Jessica Walter and so many more) keep things interesting too. The show's influence can still be seen today, most obviously in Rian Johnson's hit series Poker Face, so chances are if you enjoy those shows, you'll find the O.G. engrossing as well.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the unique structure of the show (knowing who the perpetrator is, then watching Columbo figure it out) and why it works. Or do you prefer mysterious stories where the audience doesn't know who the culprit is, and waiting for the truth to reveal itself?
Discuss some other famous TV detectives. Who are your favorites? What qualities do you admire in them?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 1, 1971
- Cast : Peter Falk , Patrick McGoohan , John Finnegan
- Network : Peacock
- Genre : Drama
- TV rating :
- Last updated : June 27, 2023
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