They Call It Murder

They Call It Murder is a riveting television film that aired in 1971, boasting a stellar cast including the likes of Jim Hutton, Lloyd Bochner, and Jo Ann Pflug. The film is a mystery drama oriented around the conventions of crime, law, and courtroom trials, delivering an atmosphere charged with tension, suspicion, and intrigue. Set in the small-town community of Eden Lake, this classic murder mystery keeps the viewer consistently captivated with its clever plot twists and a constant sense of anticipation.

Jim Hutton, known for his roles in classic films such as "The Green Berets" and "Hellfighters", leads the cast with a compelling performance as Doug Selby, the dedicated district attorney of Madison County. With his sharp wit, unwavering dedication, and keen eye for detail, Selby is portrayed as an appealing protagonist. He is the embodiment of the relentless truth-seeker, working to ensure a fair and just society.

They Call It Murder pits Selby against the high-profile attorney John Webb, portrayed by the talented Lloyd Bochner. Known for his other roles in popular series like “The Twilight Zone” and “Mission: Impossible,” Bochner embodies the polished, smooth-talking city lawyer, defending the rich and influential in the small town where Selby enforces the law.

Jo Ann Pflug, another highlight of the cast, is perhaps best recognized from "MASH" and "The Fall Guy." In They Call It Murder, she portrays a pivotal character whose complex characterization and development add a fascinating layer to the narrative, aiding in the unraveling of the mystery at the heart of the film.

The story unfolds after a local, unpopular lawyer is found dead in a hotel room in Eden Lake. The bizarre circumstances surrounding his death are suspicious at best, prompting Doug Selby to launch an investigation. As a small-town DA with big-town aspirations, Selby is more than willing to dig deep into cases everyone else wants to close up neatly and quickly. What appears at first to be a suicide quickly turns out to be a murder, leading to a tangled web of conspiracies, deceptions, and secrets that must be unraveled to bring justice.

They Call It Murder is not simply a murder-mystery; it delves deep into the characters' personal lives and motivations, creating a well-rounded narrative. As the investigation unfolds, so do the personal journeys of Selby, Webb, and the many other compelling individuals involved in the case. This human dimension is what sets the film apart, aligning audience sympathies with various characters as their personal stakes in the crime are gradually revealed.

The narrative manages to create a sense of realism, reflecting the societal divide in the remote town of Eden Lake. The interaction between the city and the countryside, the established and the outsiders, the rich and the less fortunate, give depth to the narrative, making the viewer aware of the various societal forces at play.

The direction and cinematography are enthused with the essence of early 70s cinema. The viewer is transported back in time through recognizable visual details, giving the film an authentic, nostalgic feel. The suspenseful musical score resonates perfectly with the gritty, atmospheric tone of the film, increasing the tension and heightening the apprehension.

Overall, They Call It Murder is a gripping blend of suspense, character drama, and social commentary. Its core strength lies in its consistent teasing of information, a slowly unfolding investigation that manages to keep viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The performances of Jim Hutton, Lloyd Bochner, and Jo Ann Pflug are undoubtedly compelling, with each character brought to life in an engaging and dynamic way.

In conclusion, lovers of suspense, mystery, and thoughtful character study will find plenty to love in They Call It Murder. It's an intriguing film that grapples with crime and its consequences, framed with classic 70s aesthetics and fascinating character dynamics. Through its interesting mystery and engaging characters, this film is sure to strike a chord with fans of the genre, demonstrating that even the smallest of towns can contain the biggest of secrets.