It was one of my favourites too. I still find it hard to believe though, that she was so stupid as to order her new car before the murder. But apart from that it was a great show.
There was a unique script with which to work because "Lady in Waiting" is one of the rare episodes where the killer admits shooting the victim. Therefore, there is not the usual array of multiple suspects. Aside from the theory of conspiracy with Peter Hamilton, which is not seriously considered, it is basically "Was it an accident or deliberate?" This makes for a stronger tension toward Beth Chadwick's interaction with Columbo.
It is more clear cut that Columbo's presence suggests suspicion of her guilt. He cannot hide behind the guise of "Everyone is a suspect." This unusual situation helped to make "Lady in Waiting" a terrific episode, as the killer showed a sharper than usual tongue toward Columbo and it makes the ending all that more satisfying.
I agree that purchasing the car in advance was a bad clue. Not only was it bad, it was unnecessary - the newspaper was enough to give Columbo reason to suspect her.
I'm personally partial to the end of the episode, when the music kicks in and Columbo, lighting a cigar, stands on the doorway to contemplate what just happened. I don't know what it is about that image but I love it.
I think Beth wanted to start being her own person before planning the murder; she bought a car, made known her boyfriend to her family, and they (her mom and brother) told her she could not!!
I think the car was something she did before she planned the murder. Just a possibility.
I agree that purchasing the car was not all that dumb. Remember, this was a family who could afford to purchase cars like you and I can afford to purchase bubble gum.
Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Re: Columbo: Lady In Waiting
This episode is one of my favourites. I really enjoy the interplay between Beth and Columbo - as someone has noted she does have a very sharp tongue.
I also like the fact that Columbo really does appear to be stumped at how to prove that Beth committed the murder. The inquest clears her and she explains away two of the further clues that Columbo finds.
I love the scene with the lightbulb in the boardroom and the final scene - a great line from Columbo to defuse the situation.