Have always been quite fond of 'Murder She Wrote'. It is a fun and relaxing watch that makes you think as you try to unwind in the evening. If one wants more complex, twisty mysteries with lots of tension and suspense 'Murder She Wrote' may not be for you, but if you want something light-hearted and entertaining but still provide good mysteries 'Murder She Wrote' fits the bill just fine.
"The Body Politic" isn't quite the cracker going-out-on-a-bang season finale to Season 4, generally one of 'Murder She Wrote's' best and most consistent seasons (apart from two episodes "It Runs in the Family" and "Just Another Fish Story"), and a bit of a let-down after the outstanding previous episode "Deadpan". It is nonetheless a good episode.
It is a bit limited however in how it explores its political elements and motivations. While it still engages, the mystery is one of the season's most obvious, especially after the ingenuity of the mystery and denouement of "Deadpan". Was not surprised by the identity of the killer at all and suspected them straight away in a case with few suspects. The motive was a decent one though and not as obvious as it seemed at first.
However, Angela Lansbury shows again how she hasn't put a foot wrong in one of her best-remembered roles. In support, Eddie Albert and George Grizzard are excellent and Shirley Jones is pure class.
Production values are slick and stylish as ever with 'Murder She Wrote'. The music has energy and has presence but also not making the mistake of over-scoring, while it is hard to forget or resist the theme tune.
The writing is thought-provoking and amiable and the episode does intrigue and interesting for being one of few where Jessica's accusations are not as direct.
In summary, interesting and good episode if a slightly disappointing one. 7/10 Bethany Cox