Hey all, I know this is not directly about Columbo, but does anyone know of any good movies that sort of follow the same Columbo format -- you know, we know who the killer is, there's a game of cat and mouse, etc.

My favorites are probably Hitchcock's "Rope" and "Dial M for Murder," as well as "A Shock to the System" with Michael Caine.

"Double Indemnity" sort of resembles that general formula. We know Fred MacMurray is a murderer from the outset, but we're going to find out how the whole thing unraveled. And Edward G. Robinson as MacMurray's superior uses a bit of Columbo reasoning to make him realize that a murder has happened and not a suicide.

Funny you should mention "Double Indemnity" Eric, because I just placed a pre-order for the film through my DVD retailer after waiting years for the opportunity.

As for movies, try "Murder by Natural Causes" if you're lucky enough to find a copy or catch it on cable. It's another Levinson/Link made-for-TV classic from 1979, and stars Hal Holbrook, Katherine Ross, Richard Anderson and Barry Bostwick.

DEFINITELY Double Indemnity! And it is in my top 3 of all time favourite movies.
I could kiss Fred MacMurray everytime he calls Barbara Stanwyck 'Baby'.......and he does it a lot!!!

Yeah, Double Indemnity is my favorite, too. While Barton Keys (Edward G. Robinson) doesn't have many of Columbo's habits (other than his cheap cigars), he has his share of eccentricities. He is persistent and works alone.

Sean, I just had to make mention of your mentioning Michael Caine's movie, "A Shock To The System". Terrific movie!

My favorite line from "Shock to the System": "That's when I knew...she was a WITCH!"

Great soundtrack too!

The novel "Shock to the System" is good, too. I forget if Robert Barnard or Simon Brett wrote it back in the 80's I think.

Since "Double Indemnity" has been mentioned, it's worth noting a deluxe DVD will be released on August 22 that will also include an obscure 1973 TV-movie remake of the film.

Gee, who starred in the remake? And I wonder if the remake was based on the original film or the James Cain novel?

Actually, according to the imdb listing it apparently was a faithful remake of the original film (running only in a 90 minute slot) and it actually employed three people associated with Columbo in Jack Smight (director), Stephen Bochco (teleplay) and Billy Goldenberg (music). It starred Richard Crenna and Samantha Eggar as the leads with Lee J. Cobb in the Robinson role.

i'll tell you this much...i would happily buy the dvd for the sake of the original double indemnity...but the remake?? no no...i wouldn't even watch it..........how could it ever compare with the perfection of the original???

well eric those are obviously 3 good actors there in the roles...but nothing will ever come close to the original for me....