Here I list some of the strong moments that I revisited during my recent random re-watching of the 70's episodes. I think the quality of the scenes are due to number of factors like the build-up, suspense, quality of acting, the effective lines etc.
Ransom for a dead man:
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Lt. to Mr. Carlson-
"Just one minute Mr.Carlson. You see it's like this. This is not just a kidnapping. This is a murder now. And I kind of figure that's my department. I'll see you around."
Lt. to Leslie Williams-
"I mean I just can't have you accused of murder on the wrong evidence."
Try and catch me:
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Mr. Hammond to Abigail Mitchell-
"And call me any time you find a body in your safe."
The list could go on, these are some of the moments that are stuck in my mind.
Sarcasm from"Columbo Likes The Nightlife"....At the end when the police officers are walking up to the suspects to arrest them.
"Good evening Mr. Price. Miss Farrow".
Make Me a Perfect Murder:
Columbo "But this gun...this is the one you shot him with.
May Freestone: "I see."
Columbo: "I'm sure you do, Mam."
Columbo blowing up at Dr. Mayfield:
"I believe (slamming an item down on the doctor's desk) ... you killed Sharon Martin and I believe you're trying to kill Dr. Heidelman"
Columbo blowing up at Dr. Mayfield:
"I believe (slamming an item down on the doctor's desk) ... you killed Sharon Martin and I believe you're trying to kill Dr. Heidelman"
One of the best scenes ever in Columbo!! He takes a large coffee jug, picks it up as Dr Mayfield is laughing at him, and slams it down so hard - so out of character for Columbo - that everyone, actors and audience are stunned into silence. Perfect scene, perfect acting by both.