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Columbo

Columbo

19718
Phim Chính KịchPhim Hình Sự
Phát hành
15 thg 9, 1971
Quốc gia
Hoa Kỳ
Sản xuất
Universal TelevisionStudios USAUniversal Television EntertainmentNBC Studios
Columbo là một thám tử cảnh sát thân thiện, thảo luận nhiều và có vẻ ngoài rối rắm, thường bị đối tượng nghi phạm đánh giá thấp. Mặc dù vẻ ngoài không ấn tượng và vẻ dường như vô tư, anh ta khôn khéo giải quyết mọi vụ án của mình và thu thập đầy đủ bằng chứng cần thiết cho buộc tội. Cái mắt tỉ mỉ của anh ta đối với chi tiết và phương pháp làm việc cẩn thận thường chỉ được sát thủ hiểu rõ sau khi câu chuyện kết thúc.

About

Quick guide

Detective Columbo uses a humble, disheveled look to outwit killers in a series of classic crime dramas.

Columbo is a Los Angeles homicide detective whose unassuming appearance and conversational style mask a razor‑sharp mind for details. He often lures suspects into underestimating him, then methodically assembles evidence that leads to a confident indictment. Each episode follows a similar pattern: a well‑planned crime, a suspect’s confident alibi, and Columbo’s patient pursuit of truth. The show balances sharp dialogue with a restrained tone that keeps the focus on investigation rather than gore or sensationalism. Its longevity and popularity owe to the clever interplay between character, plot, and the suspense of the ‘gotcha’ moment.

What to know

  • Series spans 13 seasons with 67 episodes.
  • Each episode runs about 1 hour and 40 minutes.
  • Detective Columbo is portrayed by Peter Falk.
  • The show is known for its inverted‑mystery format.
  • Killer’s identity is revealed after Columbo’s interrogation.
  • Episodes emphasize dialogue and subtle clues.
  • The series contains mature themes but minimal violence.
  • The show aired on NBC and later on syndication.

Watch if

If you enjoy crime‑drama with clever storytelling, subtle humor, and a detective who relies on observation over force, Columbo offers a satisfying blend of suspense and wit. The show’s classic structure and Peter Falk’s iconic performance will keep you intrigued from the first clue to

Skip if

If you prefer high‑octane action, graphic violence, or fast‑paced procedural shows, Columbo’s slower, dialogue‑heavy approach and mild violence may feel sluggish or under‑dramatic for your taste.

investigation heavydialogue heavysuspensefulmature themespsychological elementslight toneslow burn
Series Overview
Columbo is a crime‑drama that follows a Los Angeles homicide detective, Lieutenant Columbo, over 13 seasons. The series is known for its inverted mystery structure, where the audience sees the crime and the culprit first, and the suspense builds around how Columbo will catch them.
Character Profile
Columbo’s trademark rumpled trench coat and disheveled appearance mask a razor‑sharp mind for detail. His unassuming demeanor and conversational style allow him to lower suspects’ guards before he methodically pieces together evidence.
Episode Structure
Each episode begins with a well‑planned crime, followed by the suspect’s confident alibi. Columbo then employs patient interrogation, subtle observation, and evidence gathering to expose the killer’s missteps.
Detective Tactics
Columbo’s approach relies on misdirection, letting suspects over‑confidently discuss their crime, then catching them with a question or a seemingly innocuous observation that reveals critical evidence.
Narrative Style
The show uses sharp, concise dialogue, avoiding graphic violence. Its suspense is built through gradual revelation rather than action, keeping viewers focused on the intellectual chase.
Cultural Impact
Columbo set a benchmark for procedural shows, influencing later detectives with its blend of humor, intellect, and a focus on the psychological aspects of crime.

FAQ

48 Q&A
What city did Columbo solve crimes in?
Lieutenant Columbo solved crimes mostly in Los Angeles and its surrounding areas.
Who was Columbo?
Columbo was a kind but clever detective who worked for the Los Angeles Police Department.
When did Columbo first air?
The Columbo TV series first aired in September 1968.
When did Columbo end?
The original run of Columbo ended in 1978, with new episodes airing later until 2003.
What kind of people did Columbo usually go after?
Columbo often went after rich and seemingly perfect criminals who thought they could get away with murder.
What did Columbo often say?
Columbo often said things like "Just one more thing" to get the suspects to reveal more.
Did Columbo ever lose a case?
In the original series, Columbo never officially lost a case; he always caught the killer.
Who played Columbo?
The role of Columbo was famously played by actor Peter Falk.
What was Columbo's favorite cigar?
Columbo was known to enjoy smoking cheap, white cigars.
Were the killers always rich?
While many of the killers were wealthy, they were not always rich; some were successful professionals.
Did Columbo have a dog?
Yes, Columbo had a dog that often appeared with him in the show.
What was the dog's name?
Columbo's dog was affectionately known as "Dog."
Was the actor who played Columbo always the same?
Yes, Peter Falk played the role of Columbo throughout the entire series.
Were the killers always smart?
The killers were typically portrayed as intelligent and cunning, often with clever plans.
Did we ever see Columbo's wife?
No, Columbo's wife was never seen on screen, though he often mentioned her.
How many episodes of Columbo were there?
There were a total of 69 episodes of Columbo aired over its many years.
Did the killers usually confess?
The killers rarely confessed; Columbo would usually trick them into revealing their guilt through their own actions or words.
Who was Columbo's wife?
Columbo's wife was never shown in the series, but he frequently talked about her.
What was Columbo's car?
Columbo drove a beat-up, dark olive green 1959 Peugeot 403 convertible.
How did Columbo catch the killers?
Columbo caught killers by appearing disorganized and forgetful, then using small details and "just one more thing" questions to expose their lies.
Where did Columbo work?
Columbo worked for the homicide division of the Los Angeles Police Department.
What was Columbo's job?
Columbo's job was a homicide detective.
What did Columbo's coat look like?
Columbo's coat was a rumpled, beige trench coat that looked quite old and worn.
What was Columbo's famous phrase?
Columbo's most famous phrase was "Just one more thing."
What rank was Columbo?
Columbo held the rank of Lieutenant in the police department.
How old was the actor when he started playing Columbo?
Peter Falk was 40 years old when he first started playing Lieutenant Columbo in 1968.
Who directed Columbo episodes?
Many directors worked on Columbo episodes over the years. Some notable directors include Steven Spielberg, Jonathan Demme, and Robert Butler.
What made Columbo unique?
Columbo was unique because it was a "howcatchem" mystery, meaning the audience knew who the killer was from the beginning. The show focused on how Columbo would solve the crime.
What was the musical style of the show?
The musical style of Columbo often featured jazz and blues. The music helped create the show's distinctive atmosphere.
Were there any recurring guest stars on Columbo?
Yes, several actors appeared in multiple episodes of Columbo, often playing different roles. These included actors like Patrick McGoohan and Robert Culp.
Did Columbo have a partner?
Lieutenant Columbo did not have a regular police partner. He typically worked alone, which allowed him to focus on his own investigative methods.
What was the significance of the 'just one more thing' line?
The line 'just one more thing' was Columbo's signature way of delaying his exit, often to ask a crucial question or reveal a key piece of evidence that would help him solve the case.
How did the killers underestimate Columbo?
The killers often underestimated Columbo because of his disheveled appearance and seemingly absent-minded manner. They did not believe he was a serious threat until it was too late.
Who wrote Columbo episodes?
A variety of writers penned the scripts for Columbo. Some notable writers included Steven Bochco and Peter S. Fischer.
What awards did Columbo win?
Columbo won numerous awards during its run, including multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or a Special for Peter Falk.
Did Columbo ever get promoted?
In the original series, Lieutenant Columbo never received a promotion. He remained a lieutenant throughout the show's run.
How did Columbo interact with other police officers?
Columbo's interactions with other police officers were generally respectful, though they often seemed a bit bewildered by his unconventional methods. He was usually seen working independently.
Did Columbo have any other family members shown?
While Columbo often mentioned his wife, she was never seen on screen during the original series. His nephew, Cubby, was shown in one episode.
How old was the actor when the show ended?
Peter Falk was approximately 77 years old when the last Columbo episode aired in 2003.
Did the killers ever like Columbo?
Generally, the killers did not like Columbo, viewing him as a nuisance or an incompetent detective. Their disdain for him often contributed to their downfall.
What was the relationship between Columbo and the killers?
The relationship between Columbo and the killers was one of cat and mouse, with Columbo persistently trying to uncover their guilt while the killers attempted to mislead him.
What was the role of the lieutenant?
The lieutenant, as played by Columbo, was a homicide detective who solved murders. His main role was to investigate and ultimately catch the killer.
Did Columbo have a catchphrase about his son?
Columbo occasionally mentioned his son, often in passing, but he did not have a specific recurring catchphrase related to his son.
What was the actor's name?
The actor who famously played Columbo was Peter Falk.
Did we always see the murder happen first?
Yes, in most Columbo episodes, the murder was shown at the beginning of the show, with the audience aware of the killer's identity.
What was special about the show's format?
The show's special format, known as the "inverted detective story" or "howcatchem," revealed the killer and the crime early on, making the mystery about how the detective would solve it.
What was Columbo's brother like?
Columbo's brother was mentioned occasionally in the series, but his personality or specific details about him were not extensively shown or developed.
Was Columbo a popular show?
Yes, Columbo was a very popular and critically acclaimed television series during its original run.

Diễn viên

Peter Falk
Peter Falk
Columbo