I love Columbo, and am currently watching all the episodes back to back. This is the first episode I have to ask: why did the murder happen? As we watch the murderer commit the crime--as all Columbo episodes begin--I was never quite sure why this person "had" to be murdered. Many episodes show just how the victim was an obstacle to the criminal, but not this one. I think it robbed this episode of some of its impact. We have to see something of why the crime was committed to be drawn into the story.
That said, Hector Elizando was excellent as Columbo's foil. That smooth, oily voice has a very nice criminal ring to it. And I particularly liked the fact the young king immediately liked Columbo. We usually see just the opposite in other episodes--Columbo is usually making friends as he talks to the little people, like maids and gardeners. It was a hoot to see him befriended by a king.
That said, Hector Elizando was excellent as Columbo's foil. That smooth, oily voice has a very nice criminal ring to it. And I particularly liked the fact the young king immediately liked Columbo. We usually see just the opposite in other episodes--Columbo is usually making friends as he talks to the little people, like maids and gardeners. It was a hoot to see him befriended by a king.