Columbo S5 ★★★☆☆

I think there is a loose trend here where they are trying to write Columbo as overly clever, with Columbo not just catching people out in a gap in logic but threatening to dole out ironic fates that returns a small aspect of meanness to the character not present since Prescription: Murder. The escalation of cases to involving international relations and spies also smells of insecurity in the basic structure of the show, though it still remains very enjoyable. The repeatedly leaning on Columbo shouting as comedy bit is not exactly the height of humour, but Peter Falk looks like he’s enjoying himself doing it.