First I agree, this is a fine Columbo. However, one thing bothers me logically: In the first operation, that Mayfield performed on Dr. Hidemann, he uses a thread, that will dissolve itself, so that the cardiac valve will fall out of its place and consequently kill Dr. Hidemann, which is Mayfield's intention. Correct so far? As Columbo threatens, police will perform an autopsy, if Dr. Hidemann dies, assuming to find NO thread in the heart which would be proof of Dr. Mayfield having used the wrong kind of thread. Correct so far? Therefore Mayfield hastens to perform another operation in order to "exchange" the thread by using the correct permanent thread this time. Now comes my problem: What is it actually, that Columbo can use as proof against Dr. Mayfield? A permanent (correct) thread? What proof would it be? The second operation is "excused" anyway by "urgent" reasons. A dissolving thread? THAT would be a proof. But from where should he get it? It was only used in the first operation, therefore it could only be a bloody(!) tiny something coming out from the wound. But Columbo triumphantly holds a long(!) tuft of clean(!) thread in his hands in the end of the film. What does it prove?
Review of A Stitch in Crime
