Watch Columbo: Prescription: Murder

In the 1968 movie "Columbo: Prescription: Murder," Peter Falk stars as the iconic detective Lieutenant Columbo, who has been called upon to solve a tricky murder case. Gene Barry plays the role of Dr. Ray Flemming, a wealthy and successful psychiatrist who has murdered his wife, and Katherine Justice plays Susan Hudson, an ambitious actress who is caught up in the web of deceit and murder.

The movie starts off with Dr. Flemming killing his wife, while making it look like an accident. He hopes to achieve two objectives with this act: first, he can end his unhappy marriage and start a new life with Susan, and second, he can inherit his wife's fortune. However, his plan begins to unravel when Lieutenant Columbo appears on the scene to investigate the death.

Columbo is an unconventional detective who is always underestimated by his suspects. He comes across as bumbling and forgetful, but he is actually sharp and astute, with an analytical mind that enables him to see details that others miss. In "Prescription: Murder," he is at his best, using his skills to unravel a complex plot and bring the culprit to justice.

As Columbo travels down the rabbit hole of the murder case, he discovers a web of lies and deceit that involves not just Dr. Flemming but also Susan Hudson. At one point, he even becomes a patient of Dr. Flemming, using the opportunity to gain insights into the doctor's personality and motives.

One of the standout features of the movie is the way in which Peter Falk delivers his lines. His character is known for his distinctive speech pattern, which includes pausing mid-sentence and trailing off before reaching a conclusion. This technique is effectively used to create a tension in the scenes, making the audience wonder if he is actually onto something or if he is just fumbling around. Falk's performance adds depth to the character of Columbo, making him more than just a caricature.

Another notable aspect of "Prescription: Murder" is the chemistry between the actors. Falk and Barry play off each other exceptionally well, with Falk's low-key approach providing an excellent contrast to Barry's flamboyant performance. Katherine Justice also delivers a strong performance, portraying Susan as a cool and calculating woman who is in over her head.

Overall, "Columbo: Prescription: Murder" is a classic movie that exemplifies the best of the whodunit genre. It keeps the audience guessing until the very end, with twists and turns that are both unexpected and satisfying. The movie benefits greatly from its talented cast, its clever writing, and its attention to detail. With its memorable characters and gripping plot, "Prescription: Murder" continues to be a must-see for fans of detective stories.

Columbo: Prescription: Murder is a 1968 crime movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.9.