Ep 6. A Deadly State of Mind

In Columbo season 4 episode 6, titled "A Deadly State of Mind," viewers are welcomed back with the classic mystery formula the show is known for. The episode opens with Dr. Ray Flemming (George Hamilton), a successful psychiatrist, meeting with patient Joan Hudson (Leslie Ann Warren) who confesses to him that she has killed her husband.

Instead of reporting the crime, Dr. Flemming uses this information to blackmail Hudson into becoming his patient. As the two become increasingly entangled, it becomes clear that something much weightier is happening between them, leading Columbo (Peter Falk) into a labyrinth of mind games and psychological ploys in order to uncover the truth.

Though the episode takes place against the backdrop of the glamorous 70s California, A Deadly State of Mind is certainly not short on suspense, weaving a tangled web of deceit and intrigue that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. With contributions from the likes of David E. Kelley and Dean Hargrove, the script itself is a finely tuned machine, shifting between seemingly innocuous conversations and ominous foreshadowing with ease.

As a character, Dr. Flemming is a formidable opposition for Columbo, with his suave charm and formidable intellect making him a more than worthy adversary for the detective. Hamilton plays the character with aplomb, imbuing him with a dangerous charisma that is hard to resist. Likewise, Warren puts in a stellar performance as Hudson, a woman tormented by her secrets and by her apparent devotion to Flemming.

One of the most intriguing aspects of A Deadly State of Mind is the way in which it explores the complicated interactions between therapist and patient. Though the script is careful not to indict the entire field of psychiatry, it does highlight the potential for power abuse that exists within the practice, particularly when a practitioner's ego becomes inflated. Viewers are left with the uneasy feeling that they may never truly know the secrets that lie within the minds of their therapists.

The episode also does a great job of incorporating the themes of power and control into the plot as a whole. It is clear that both Flemming and Hudson yearn for mastery over one another, and their twisted relationship is built on a foundation of manipulation and deceit. This is especially evident in the dialogue, which is often laced with implicit threats and veiled insults.

As always, Peter Falk delivers a standout performance as Columbo, with the character's gruff yet lovable demeanor providing a welcome counterpoint to the more sinister elements at play. The detective's dogged pursuit of the truth is as endearing as ever, and it is impossible not to root for him even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Overall, A Deadly State of Mind is a standout episode of Columbo that is sure to satisfy fans of the mystery genre. With a tightly constructed plot, memorable performances, and a healthy dose of psychological intrigue, the episode serves as a testament to the show's enduring appeal. Whether you're a newcomer to the world of Columbo or a longtime fan, this episode is not to be missed.