Lovers and Other Killers: Analysis

Hello, and welcome to Part 3 of my Lovers and Other Killers episode guide. If you haven’t already seen it, I recommend starting with Part 1.
There are four parts to this episode guide:

  • Part 1 is a introduction, including the setting, characters, and context of the episode.
  • Part 2 is a detailed timeline of the episode’s events.
  • This is Part 3, my analysis of the episode.
  • Part 4 is a collection of fun extras that I like to call Bonus Features

Episode Analysis

Show Your Work

This episode differs from a typical MSW story arc because the vast majority of screen time is invested in characters and events that are ultimately unrelated to the central murder. We often think of these elements as red herrings, added simply to distract the audience or obfuscate the real plot. In this case, though, the time invested in developing ancillary characters and presenting plot points that are ultimately left unresolved is time well spent. It very effectively builds a dark and pervading sense of unease that elevates this episode, even though the central murder plotline turns out to be pretty unremarkable.

Continue reading “Lovers and Other Killers: Analysis”

The Murder of Sherlock Holmes

Move over, Sherlock. We’re in Jessica’s world now.

Fair Warning

This is a discussion of a murder mystery. It will contain many, many spoilers. If you have not yet had the pleasure of watching the entire episode, I suggest you make an evening of it and then return here to pick over the bones with me.

Hello and Welcome

“The Murder of Sherlock Holmes” is the premiere episode of the Murder, She Wrote series.  It is double length, which allows time to introduce Jessica Fletcher as she embarks on a new and unexpected chapter in her life.

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