The Case of the Weary Watchdog

I am going to try to reveal nothing about this episode. But it would be hard to explain just how novel it was.

What begins as a typical episode where one character is murdered, it ends up being one of the most unusual.

Fortunately, I have probably seen every single episode of this landmark and I must say, legendary series.

Each episode winds us through maelstroms of intrigues, mysteries and double-dealings. But what we witness here is a tapestry so tautly woven, that we are so sure it will never unravel.

But for the fearless and masterly writing, this does not happen. Instead we are shown a path of unexpected consequences where the genius of Perry Mason's mind leads us to an unwitting and satisfactory conclusion.

I must recommend this one without an iota of reservations.

I'll start by saying I always enjoy this episode, despite the overuse of Confucius-style Chinese cliches. The issues I have with it are more in the plot holes that exist within. While it starts off okay, there were a couple of obvious (to me) glaring issues that ruined the story (but not the entertainment value). Chang's side-court situation killed any mystery, and the ethnic origin of the art object should have been apparent to not only the killer, but those around him as well. And what is with John Dall and art where PM is concerned..? Anyway, flawed but still worthy of a look.

This episode gives a good indication of how close Perry Mason and Della Street are. Della has a good friend in Mala Powers who is being blackmailed by an Oriental art dealer played by John Dall in one of his fine epicene characterizations.

Without question Barbara Hale promises to $25,000.00 for Powers no questions asked. And of course she goes to Raymond Burr who gives her a check no questions asked. But Dall wants to squeeze Powers a little more and later on he winds up dead. This is truly one of those public service homicides.

So with that kind of character there's a good list of suspects out there that are alternative perpetrators. Dall had a number of criminal enterprises including some activity with a government in those days we were forbidden dealings with, that being the People's Republic Of China.

Of course Barbara Hale was never really in trouble though the DA made noise about holding her as an accomplice. Trouble for her would be when she's arrested for murder in the first Perry Mason TV movie twenty years later.

Then Della Street really needs the services of Perry Mason.

Fascinating whodunit, just to see Perry write a personal check to Della for $25,000 (about 241,000 dollars today) -- no questions asked?

Della's good friend, Janet Brent (Mala Powers) is being blackmailed, some not too flattering photos in the mix. John Dall plays to perfection the worthless rat, Edward Franklin, owner of a gallery, filled with priceless Oriental art. Even though Janet pays him off, he refuses to return the pictures, now wanting a half interest in her husband's company. PS: He's also stiffing lots of other folks, earning a tidy income on the sly.

One episode you know the deceased got everything due him, however that leaves Janet being charged with murder. Technically, Della is also involved in the case, and could face prison herself. The nifty catch here is that while Janet admits to striking Franklin (one time), forensics indicate he was killed due to TWO additional blows.

Excellent writing, guaranteeing to keep you guessing, written by Samuel Newman, lead writer and script supervisor for the series. He likely borrowed the "multiple assault" murder angle (two different killers) from Erle Stanley Gardner's "The Case of the Velvet Claws." In that mystery, the victim was shot by two different people, as opposed to being struck with an object, as in this case. Fairly clever either way.

Memorable performances all the way around, particulary John Dall, known for the Hitchcock thriller, ROPE. Mala Powers has a fine dramatic role, also Doris Dowling (known for the LOST WEEKEND).

Number One Son Keye Luke (CHARLIE CHAN) plays the owner of a Chinese restaurant, replete with wise sayings. Note his name, CC Chang, similar to Chan.

SEASON 6 EPISODE 9 remastered CBS dvd box set. Volumes 1 and 2. Thanks to METV for running these oldies twice daily.

Very noir! The story unfolds among rich people and oriental art. Among the cast are John Dall, Wesley Addy and Doris Dowling. Even Della dons a mink stole and gold lame evening dress. Or perhaps it's silver. One of the best.