Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel

Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel is a captivating crime drama that hit the television screens back in 1987, bringing to life one of the most nostalgic characters of classic American literature. Presented by Dean Hargrove, the movie is an effective sequel to the widely beloved television series Perry Mason that aired from 1957 to 1966. The film stars Raymond Burr, who effortlessly slips back into the role of Perry Mason – the legendary defense attorney known for his profound legal acumen and relentless pursuit of justice.

In this nail-biting drama, Perry Mason becomes embroiled in a case full of scandal, deceit, and murder. The story trails the venomous life of Harriet Lawler (played by Betty White), the ruthless editor of a scandal magazine notorious for destroying reputitions with its sensational, often false, stories. But when she is found dead, the list of suspects with a motive for murder is a mile long.

After her disgruntled ex-husband Ed Morrison (played by David Hedison) is framed for the crime, he hires Perry Mason to take on his defense, leaving Mason with numerous leads to pursue and an array of wronged individuals to consider as suspects. We follow Perry Mason as he navigates through this complex and overwhelming case, racing against the clock to prove Morrison’s innocence and find the real murderer.

The signature aura of suspense permeates throughout the film, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats, caught up in a string of questionable motives, hidden secrets, and startling revelations. The intricate plot bristles with tension, extending beyond the core murder mystery to delve into the darker aspects of scandal-ridden celebrity life.

Raymond Burr delivers an outstanding performance as Perry Mason, investing every scene with unruffled calm and astute, methodical reasoning that fans would expect from the character. His dogged advocacy and dedication to his pursuit of justice is as inspiring and potent as it was in the original series. Barbara Hale reprises her role as his faithful secretary, Della Street, lending her unique charm and warmth to the movie.

William Katt also returns from the original series as Paul Drake Jr., carrying forward the legacy of his on-screen father as Mason’s ace investigator. His character adds an immortal quirky edge to the otherwise tense narrative, totally committed to uncovering the truth, no matter how much danger he has to face.

The film also boasts commendable performances from an ensemble cast that includes Robert Guillaume, David Ogden Stiers, and Alice Ghostley. Betty White as Harriet Lawler is impressive, making viewers both dread and pity her character. The dynamics between these characters are wonderfully portrayed, contributing to the layers and intricacies of the plot.

The movie’s director, Christian I. Nyby II, does a fantastic job at weaving the trademark suspense, drama, and atmosphere distinctive of Perry Mason's reality. Accompanied by the memorable music by Dick DeBenedictis, the film has a unique blend of modern crime-solving mechanisms blended impeccably with the classic noir style, forming a puzzle that slowly pieces together, culminating in the iconic courtroom showdown.

Despite its running time of 100 minutes, this movie expertly encompasses a complex narrative while maintaining a swift pace, never letting the suspense recede or interest dwindle. It keeps the viewers engaged from the beginning, playing on the unpredictability of the plot and the unrevealed identities of the real villain until the very end.

"Perry Mason: The Case of the Scandalous Scoundrel" is a must-watch for fans of detective stories and courtroom dramas. It is a powerful testimony to the enduring appeal of the Perry Mason character and a fitting continuation of his legacy. Whether you are a long-time Perry Mason enthusiast or a newcomer to the character, this movie is a thrilling ride that embraces suspense, intrigue, and a distinctive sense of justice that will keep you thoroughly entertained.