Ep 4. Dagger of the Mind

Columbo season 2 episode 4, titled "Dagger of the Mind," begins with a seemingly impossible murder at a fictional British mental institution. Dr. Ray Flemming (played by Richard Basehart), the dignified director of the institution, is found dead in his locked office with a ceremonial dagger plunged into his chest. The staff immediately suspects one of their own patients, an eccentric and volatile actor named Nicholas Frame (played by Honor Blackman), who had recently been released from the institution and had a motive for wanting revenge on Dr. Flemming.

When Lieutenant Columbo (played by Peter Falk) arrives on the scene, he is perplexed by the locked room mystery and the various clues left behind, including a broken window, a pair of glasses, and an unusual smell emanating from the locked office. Columbo begins his investigation by interviewing the staff at the institution, including Dr. Flemming's secretary, his assistant, and his close friend and colleague, Dr. Howard Nicholson (played by Bernard Fox). He also speaks with Nicholas Frame, who denies any involvement in the murder but reveals a complicated relationship with Dr. Flemming, who once saved his life during a mental breakdown.

As Columbo delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of secrets and lies among the institution's staff, each of whom had a motive for wanting Dr. Flemming dead. He discovers evidence of an affair between Dr. Flemming and his assistant, as well as financial improprieties involving Dr. Nicholson. He also learns that several staff members had access to the ceremonial dagger used in the murder, including the institution's gardener and a visiting lecturer.

Despite the many obstacles and red herrings, Columbo eventually solves the case by piecing together a series of seemingly unrelated clues and alibis. He calls upon his famous powers of deduction and his keen observational skills to unravel the complex plot and catch the true killer.

Throughout the episode, Columbo's trademark quirks and idiosyncrasies are on full display, from his rumpled appearance and unassuming demeanor to his penchant for asking odd questions and distracting suspects with tangential subjects. His interactions with the various characters in the episode are both amusing and revealing, showcasing his ability to be both charming and relentless in his pursuit of the truth.

Overall, "Dagger of the Mind" is a classic episode of Columbo that combines suspense, intrigue, and humor to great effect. The locked room mystery and array of suspects make for a thrilling and engaging whodunit, while Peter Falk's performance as the iconic detective is as delightful as ever. Fans of the series will not be disappointed by this unforgettable installment.