Why Are Columbo Episodes So Long

 

The Curious Case of Columbo's Lengthy Episodes: A Celebration of Slow-Burn Sleuthing

Lieutenant Columbo. The rumpled raincoat. The seemingly absent-minded demeanor. And of course, the episodes – those captivating whodunits that seem to stretch on for ages compared to today's snappy television fare. But here's the thing: Columbo's extended running time isn't a flaw, it's a deliberate choice that strengthens the show's unique formula. So, grab a cigar (or perhaps not, Lieutenant), and settle in as we unravel the mystery behind Columbo's lengthy episodes.

A Break from the Breakneck Pace:

Television in the 1970s, when Columbo first graced our screens, wasn't quite the fast-paced montage of information we're accustomed to today. Shows like Columbo belonged to a breed known as "wheel series" – a rotating anthology of detective shows sharing a similar time slot. This format allowed for longer episodes, typically between 70 and 90 minutes.

Investing in the Characters:

This extra time became Columbo's playground. Unlike other detective shows where the focus was solely on solving the crime, Columbo took the time to develop its characters. We weren't just dropped into a murder scene; we were introduced to the victim, the suspects, and their intricate relationships. This character development fueled the whodunit aspect. The longer we spent with the characters, the more we questioned their motives and alibis, becoming active participants in the Lieutenant's investigation.

The Art of the Cat and Mouse:

Columbo's brilliance lies in his deceptive facade. The disheveled exterior and seemingly scatterbrained questions were a masterfully crafted act. The extended episodes allowed the writers to truly explore this dynamic. We witness the elaborate plans of the murderer slowly unraveling under Columbo's seemingly casual persistence. The tension builds with each "just one more thing," a testament to the show's masterful use of slow-burn suspense.

Quality Over Quantity:

It's important to remember that Columbo wasn't a show churning out episode after episode. The longer format resulted in fewer episodes per season, but each one felt like a miniature movie. The writers had the luxury of crafting intricate plots with well-developed characters, a stark contrast to the formulaic approach often seen in shows with shorter runtimes.

A Legacy of Enduring Appeal:

Columbo's enduring popularity is a testament to the effectiveness of its format. While some may find the pacing slow by today's standards, the show's strength lies in its commitment to character development, intricate plotting, and the slow, methodical unraveling of the mysteries. In a world obsessed with instant gratification, Columbo offers a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the greatest rewards come from taking the time to savor the journey.

So next time you find yourself watching a Columbo episode, embrace the extended format. It's not just filler; it's the canvas upon which the writers paint a masterpiece of suspense and intrigue. After all, in the world of Columbo, sometimes the most effective way to catch a killer is to take your sweet time.