Ep 6. Mind over Mayhem

Detective Columbo is back with yet another intriguing case to crack in the season 3 episode 6 titled "Mind over Mayhem." The episode follows the story of Dr. Marshall Cahill (played by Jose Ferrer), a brilliant behavioral psychologist who works at a prestigious institute. Dr. Cahill has dedicated his entire life to studying the intricate workings of the human mind but when a colleague Dr. Sally Bixton (played by Jessica Walter) is gunned down in his office, everything he knows about the mind and human behavior is put to the test.

The episode begins with Cahill demonstrating his latest invention to the board members of the institute. He has created an artificial intelligence that can simulate human behavior. The AI, named "Think Tank," is capable of predicting how ordinary people would react to certain situations and is designed to help the institute prevent human-made disasters. The board members are impressed with the technology and grant Cahill permission to test it in the real world.

However, things take a dark turn when Cahill's colleague, Dr. Bixton is found dead in his office. Lt. Columbo is called to investigate the crime scene and he suspects that the murder could be linked to Cahill's AI invention. Columbo initially faces little resistance from the helpful and polite Dr. Cahill, who appears to be genuinely shocked by the death of his colleague. However, as Columbo delves deeper into the case, he uncovers several suspicious details that point towards Cahill's involvement in the crime.

Despite his apparent innocence, Columbo uncovers that Dr. Cahill had a complicated relationship with Dr. Bixton, and it wasn't always friendly. He soon discovers that several people had motives to kill Dr. Bixton, including Dr. Cahill himself. The AI thinker, "Think Tank" becomes a crucial piece of evidence in the case, and Columbo realizes that it could be used to uncover the truth behind the murder.

As the investigation continues, the case takes several twists and turns with multiple suspects and red herrings. Columbo battles to decipher fact from fiction as he interviews a host of interesting and colorful characters.

Dr. Cahill is undoubtedly the star of the episode; he's an exceptional psychologist and an articulate speaker who can bend the truth to serve his own interests. Columbo, in his usual style, tries to get under Cahill's skin, exploiting little details and inconsistencies to create a case against him. The battle between Columbo and Cahill provides a wonderful contrast, with the detective never falling in the trap of underestimating his opponent even when things appear to favor him.

The episode takes a few exciting turns as the investigation leads Columbo to several different locations, each with their own secrets and surprises. The humor of the show is also very much present, with Columbo's unique brand of sarcasm and dry wit lightening up some of the darker moments.

Overall, Mind over Mayhem is a gripping and well-crafted episode, packed full of suspense, along with a third layer of twists. The episode showcases the iconic pairing of a genius murderer and an equally brilliant detective trying to solve the case. The plot is well-paced, with no loose ends, and everything moves towards a satisfying and exciting ending.

The classic detective series, Columbo, never fails to keep you on the edge of your seat, and this episode provides excellent entertainment for viewers looking for a good mystery. The show's ability to weave intricate details and subtle clues into its storyline is what makes it a cult classic even today. So, sit back, relax, and allow the clever mind of Columbo to guide you through this sensational case.