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.

This is one of my favorite Mason episodes. It takes place in Chinatown and involves social issues of the immigrant population. Keye Luke (number on son of Charlie Chan) is there, quoting a few too many Chinese aphorisms in a stereotypical way. But there is double dealing, the murder of a despicable man, and Della getting into a situation where she could serve time. We also have a rule of law we have not seen before. Very good.

Perry Mason's "The Case of the Weary Watchdog" is a complicated but good story involving stolen Chinese art objects, incriminating photos, and international blackmail between Chinese-Americans and those trapped behind the "Bamboo Curtain". It's a great episode that even snares his secretary into a possible charge of accessory to murder herself . But don't get too mired in the confusing details of the other reviews here. Just watch "The Case of the Weary Watchdog" for a great example of the very special relationship between Perry and Della on the series and the only episode in the history of the series where she asks Perry for TWENTY-FIVE THOUSAND DOLLARS!!! . . . and his response to that, as well as her previous question as phrased in the summary line above.

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.

You know the routine. A character with multiple potential enemies is killed and Perry Mason's client looks extremely guilty due to the circumstances of the case in the first half. In the second half, usually in a pretrial hearing, Perry (with help from his able assistants) finds out who the real murderer is, usually eliciting a witness stand confession, or one from the gallery. Tried and true, and fits the 52 minute time frame.

This episode has Perry MUCH more busy, involved in the murder case, but also an important accessory murder case and a Grand Theft case.

When Hamilton Burger's jaw drops a little more deeply than it usually does, you can almost feel for the man.

Tightly written, well thought out, and Perry's knowledge of ugly art (look at his office!) comes into play here. A great episode for fans of the series or even those who just want an engaging Whodunnit.