No, I like this episode but probably for unusual reasons. I love the classic 70s background of the salon, the drive in restaurant, the clothes and hair style that Beth evolves into and I love the music in this one. Especially the beginning opening of the episode. What I do have a problem with is the fact that I think most people in Peter Hamilton's position would have undoubtedly replayed the night in their mind a thousand times and come to the conclusion long before that what got his initial attention was a gunshot, not an alarm. So I found the solution a bit unbelievable that it took that long and that it didn't surface in the questioning. But I watch episodes for the entire effect of them so I still completely enjoy it.

I enjoyed this episode. Clearly she was "not well" from the first scene. Why else would she be living with her older brother? Then she embarks on a fantasy, seeing her protector as a barrier to great things. So she sees him off, takes over the running of the company and that's when reality really kicks in and suddenly, trying to cope with all that gets to her. Like so many characters in Columbo films, they have some defect, are dysfunctional in some way which ultimately leaves them exposed to the questioning mind of Lt Columbo.

Agreed, not in my top 10

I usually enjoy the way most Columbo's end but the 'cart before the horse' ending was kind of a let down for me.

I have a little observation about this episode that has nothing to do with liking it or not, so apologies for hijacking your thread, but there is a common slang saying that is attributed to the movie Friday starring Ice cube and Chris Tucker where when you say goodbye to someone, you say "Bye, Felicia." Friday is not the first use of this saying as many believe. Beth Chadwick says it when she's leaving the salon after getting her hair done.

Isn't it possible that Felicia was the name of the woman behind the counter where Beth signed the bill.

No, Felicia was the one that was tending to her nails(?).

The real problem with that episode, is that Hamilton says that the alarm was running when he heard the gunshot. Opposite to what Columbo says he heard and suposedly give him the proof. Checked three times. This episode is a fraud.

To me, the newspaper Bryce brought in would have been a far better "gotcha" clue than the issue of Peter finally and conveniently remembering the shots came before the alarm, which is the sort of detail that would have been learned the first night. That was a lot more incriminating to show Bryce had walked in through the front door.

I like it.

Like many early episodes it is directed in a very stylish manner and the Goldenberg score is fantastic.It has rewatch.( or 'relisten) value for this factor alone!

Even if the script isn't first rate, everything else is.

I couldn’t agree more. The “gotcha part” is definitely flawed, but the opening music gives me goosebumps every time I watch it (which is a LOT!!!). Not to mention the hair salon, the new wardrobe, the list of enjoyable aspects goes on and on. I think for those of us “repeat” watchers, we’re watching for the specific vibe, the dialogue, the music and so much of the background enjoyment. Some of my favourite repeats have plot holes but still make for the most enjoyable viewing.

In my article on the Music of COLUMBO, I singled out this. episode for outstanding music composition.

I can understand how music, fashion, nostalgia, etc. can make an episode more endearing. For those of us of a certain age, seeing Beth Chadwick try on all of the “latest” fashions brings back a lot memories. But it’s hard not to feel old when they’re amazed at the advanced technology of the Selectrix typewriter, lol

One of the little pleasures of REWATCHING COLUMBO is the contemporary technology and gadgets . that are worked into plots.
T
1970's ' cutting edge tech includes :
Videotape recorders and cameras
Telephone answering machines
Electric typewriters

And 90s shows
Fax machines
Beeper bracelets
Mobile phones

ALL of these amazed the gadget impaired Lt.!