There were some very clever villains in this series, much in the tradition of COLUMBO, but writer Robert Sherwood changed gears and had Barnaby match wits against a trio of preppy high school kids. And what a tangled web they weave. 10 Stars for originality.
This was an early role for popular twenty-something actor Andrew Parks (as Lomax), son of Oscar nominee Larry Parks and tv actress Betty Garrett. He steals the show as the arrogant, calculating "brains of the outfit," involved in the accidental death of the head master of his school. It's all about tests, grades and college. If you're keeping notes, this is one of the few episodes where the suspects could have gotten a lesser charge, had they simply told the truth. Parks is spot on in this role, which probably lead to similar parts in many other cop shows, like CANNON. Interestingly, Parks comes off as a younger version of such sly villains as Jack Cassidy and Anthony Zerbe. Watch him trying to outwit Barnaby. A classic give and take.
Veteran actress Geraldine Brooks, who worked with Joan Crawford and was a close friend, plays the victim's sister (Janet) who smells a rat. Her brother is played by John Carter, his first appearance on the show, soon to join the cast as Lt. Biddle.
Exceptionally written, again with shades of COLUMBO. The prime reason is the suspects talk too much --while Barnaby hangs onto every word. And that's what nails them. Also a case Barnaby could have easily lost, and what makes it so fascinating to watch. A gem.
Directed by Ralph Senensky, who later directed WALTONS and HART TO HART. Ralph directed three episodes for the series, much in the style of main director Walter Grauman.
This was the 4th episode, SEASON 1. Remastered color CBS/Paramount dvd box set.