Ep 3. Make Me a Perfect Murder

In season 7, episode 3 of the mystery television series Columbo, titled "Make Me a Perfect Murder," the audience is introduced to a successful businessman named Edna Matthews, who is also an avid hobbyist and gifted painter. Matthews is introduced as somewhat of a patron of the arts and routinely donates time and money to local arts organizations.

In the opening scene, the audience sees Matthews wandering around her studio, seemingly talking to herself about how much she hates her husband, the owner of a massive shipping business, and how she wishes she had the power to do away with him. The audience is quickly clued in to the fact that Matthews is considering murder, despite her outwardly pleasant demeanor.

The rest of the episode follows Matthews as she meticulously plans and carries out the perfect murder of her husband, using her artistic talents to help her create a plan that is practically foolproof. With the help of a series of intricate props and her trusty pet cat, Matthews creates a scenario in which her husband appears to have died by accidental electrocution, rather than being murdered.

Despite her careful planning, however, the audience can sense that something is about to go wrong. Columbo, the detective assigned to the case, seems to have a sixth sense about the whole situation, and it quickly becomes clear that he is onto Matthews.

As the episode progresses, Columbo begins to piece together the evidence of what happened on the night of the murder, and Matthews becomes increasingly panicked and paranoid. She begins to lash out at those around her, including her art dealer and even her pet cat, both of whom she feels are becoming suspicious of her.

Ultimately, the episode builds to a tense and dramatic conclusion, as Columbo finally confronts Matthews with his findings and forces her to admit to the murder. The audience is left on the edge of their seats as the two engage in a battle of wits and intellect, with Columbo ultimately emerging victorious and delivering justice to the victim's family.

Overall, "Make Me a Perfect Murder" is a classic episode of Columbo, full of suspense, intrigue, and moments of unexpected humor. With its complex plotting and well-drawn characters, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the "whodunit" genre, and a reminder of why the show remains a staple of television history.