Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel
Perry is suing a gutter trash newspaper that is running a story about a love affair between him and Della. The editor also has "dirt" files on an Army General, his banker and other "clients". All of them make little-concealed verbal threats to him at a party but the person that hated him most is a female reporter who the editor had just fired from the paper for attempting to write a serious story. She threatens him and soon after the editor is found, floating in his pool, shot. The reporter is arrested for the crime and Perry, who has a personal stake in this matter, with the aid of Della and Paul set out to solve the mystery. But the other suspects just want the case over with and will go to any lengths to protect their pasts and their secrets
Insights
Plot Summary
Millionaire industrialist and notorious philanderer, Frederick Murdock, is found dead after being caught in a compromising situation. Perry Mason takes on the defense of the young woman accused of the murder, a client who claims innocence and believes she was framed. As Mason delves into the victim's shady dealings and complex personal life, he uncovers a web of deceit and betrayal involving business rivals, estranged family members, and hidden secrets.
Critical Reception
This made-for-television movie, part of the revived Perry Mason film series, received generally positive reviews for continuing the classic legal drama formula. Audiences appreciated the familiar characters and the intricate mystery, even if some critics found it to be a bit formulaic. It was seen as a solid entry in the long-running franchise.
What Reviewers Say
- Appeals to fans of the original Perry Mason series.
- Offers a satisfyingly complex mystery with the beloved characters.
- Maintains the signature courtroom drama and legal procedural elements.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this particular TV movie is not readily available. However, generally, viewers enjoyed the revival of the Perry Mason character and the classic mystery-solving format.
Fun Fact
This film marked the return of Barbara Hale as Della Street, reprising her role from the original Perry Mason television series, which had concluded nearly two decades prior.
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